Imagine a delicious treat that requires no baking, no eggs, and no condensed milk, yet melts in your mouth with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of roasted peanuts, crunchy biscuits, cocoa powder, and creamy chocolate into a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth snack. Perfect for busy days when you want to create something indulgent for your family without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups roasted peanuts
- 7 oz biscuits
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- 1.8 oz dark chocolate (55% cocoa)
- Dulce de leche (caramel spread) – optional
- 1 oz milk chocolate (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Chopping the Peanuts
Begin by chopping the roasted peanuts into fine pieces using a food processor or a knife. Once chopped, transfer the peanuts to a bowl, ready to be mixed with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Crushing the Biscuits
Next, take your biscuits and crush them until finely ground. You can use a food processor for this or place the biscuits in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Once crushed, mix the biscuits with the chopped peanuts.
Step 3: Adding Cocoa Powder
Sift 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the peanut and biscuit mixture to avoid any lumps. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined, ensuring that the cocoa is well incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporating Butter
Add 1 tablespoon of softened butter to the mixture. Use your hands to combine the butter with the dry ingredients. The butter will help bind the mixture together, making it easy to shape later.
Step 5: Melting the Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate (55%) by filling a pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Cut the chocolate into small pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over the pot of boiling water, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in short bursts. Once melted, pour the chocolate into the peanut and biscuit mixture and stir it in thoroughly with your hands.
Step 6: Shaping the Mixture
Lay a piece of cling wrap on your countertop. Take a few spoons of the mixture and place them on the cling wrap, flattening it into a long rectangle. If you’re using dulce de leche or caramel spread, place it in a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off. Squeeze the caramel into the center of the rectangle, then roll the mixture tightly in the cling wrap, shaping it into a roll. Repeat this with the remaining mixture and place the rolls in the freezer for about an hour to firm up.
Step 7: Covering with Chocolate
Once chilled, remove the rolls from the cling wrap and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Melt some dark chocolate and cover the rolls completely with it. Allow the chocolate to set by chilling the rolls for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 8: Adding Milk Chocolate Drizzle
To finish off your treats, melt 1 oz of milk chocolate and drizzle it over the rolls. Chill the rolls for another 5 minutes to allow the chocolate drizzle to harden, creating a glossy, professional-looking finish.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Biscuits: For the best texture, make sure your biscuits are fresh. Older, softer biscuits may result in a less crunchy texture.
- Chop Peanuts Finely: If you prefer a smoother treat, chop the peanuts finely or pulse them in a food processor.
- Be Careful with Chocolate: When melting chocolate, do it slowly to avoid burning. You can also use a double boiler method or microwave in small intervals.
- Make Ahead: These treats can be made ahead and stored in the freezer, making them an excellent option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Variations
- Nut Alternatives: If you don’t like peanuts, you can substitute them with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews.
- Add Fruit: For a fruity twist, try adding some dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates to the mixture.
- Different Chocolate: Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- With or Without Dulce de Leche: While the dulce de leche adds a rich caramel flavor, you can skip it or replace it with other fillings like peanut butter or Nutella for a twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long can I store these treats?
A: These treats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A: Yes! You can use any type of chocolate you prefer, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your taste.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute roasted peanuts with any nut you prefer, such as almonds, cashews, or walnuts.
Q: How can I make these treats less sweet?
A: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or omit the dulce de leche.
Q: Do I have to use biscuits?
A: Biscuits add texture, but you can substitute them with graham crackers, rice cereal, or even oats for a different crunch.
Conclusion
In just a few easy steps, you’ve created a delectable, no-bake treat that will melt in your mouth. With simple ingredients like peanuts, biscuits, cocoa powder, and chocolate, this treat is quick to prepare and a guaranteed hit with your family. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet snack, these bite-sized delights are sure to satisfy any craving. Enjoy sharing this easy and delicious treat with your loved ones!