Chocolate Salami – A Nostalgic No-Bake Chocolate Dessert
When it comes to desserts that are quick, indulgent, and quietly brilliant, chocolate salami always wins. It’s a no-bake wonder—chocolatey, crunchy, and with just the right hint of vanilla or rum—that feels nostalgic and modern all at once. Once a Soviet classic known as chocolate kolbaska, this treat has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s ridiculously delicious and way more impressive than its simple prep suggests.
Here’s the best part: chocolate salami isn’t just easy to make; it’s practically begging to be made ahead. We roll it up, stash it in the freezer, and then slice off pieces whenever the need for a decadent treat strikes. There’s no last-minute scrambling—just perfect little bites of dessert ready to elevate your evening tea or coffee. And let’s be honest, it’s miles better than anything you’d find at the store. It’s rich, chocolatey, with a crunch that feels playful and satisfying, and its salami-like appearance is always a conversation starter.
Optional Tips for Variations:
- Nuts for Extra Crunch: Add chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts for a nutty twist.
- Fruity Notes: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
- Boozy Flavor Boost: Replace part of the milk with Kahlua, Amaretto, or bourbon for an elevated flavor profile.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Rich Chocolate Base: The cocoa and butter combination creates a velvety ganache.
- Crunchy Texture: The shortbread cookies (and optional nuts) give each bite satisfying contrast.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt the recipe with different nuts, dried fruits, or liqueurs to suit your taste.
- Salami-Like Appearance: A dusting of powdered sugar completes the illusion, making it as fun to present as it is to eat.
Chocolate Salami
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Mixture:
- 8 tablespoons 1 stick butter
- 200 g 1 cup granulated sugar
- 60 ml 1/4 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or rum/cognac for a grown-up twist
- 500 g 2 1/2 packets shortbread cookies, crushed
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts almonds, or walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
For Decoration:
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter with the sugar and milk over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Let it come to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder to create a smooth, chocolatey ganache.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then add the egg and vanilla extract (or rum) and whisk until smooth.
Combine with Cookies:
- Crush the shortbread cookies into small pieces, leaving some slightly larger for a more crunchy texture.
- Fold the crushed cookies into the chocolate mixture. If using nuts or dried fruit, mix them in at this stage.
Shape into Salami Logs:
- Divide the mixture into four or five portions. On plastic wrap or parchment paper, shape each portion into a log about 18 cm (7 inches) long and 4 cm (2 inches) in diameter.
- Roll the plastic tightly around each log, twisting the ends to mimic a salami-like appearance. Place the logs in the refrigerator or freezer to set for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once firm, unwrap the logs and dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a traditional finish.
- Slice into 1/4-inch pieces and serve as a delightful no-bake chocolate dessert with coffee or tea.