Introduction
Chocolate salami is a traditional European treat that looks like cured meat but tastes like a rich, fudgy chocolate dessert. It originated in Italy and Portugal, often served during Christmas or festive gatherings. It’s an easy, no-bake recipe—just mix, shape, chill, and slice. Perfect for impressing guests or gifting during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) digestive biscuits or tea biscuits (you can also use graham crackers)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g (3.5 oz) sugar (granulated or powdered)
- 2 large eggs (pasteurized recommended, or you can use egg yolks only for safety)
- 50 g (2 oz) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100 g (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, melted and cooled
- 80 g (3 oz) nuts (walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts), chopped
- 50 g (2 oz) dried fruit (raisins, figs, or cranberries – optional)
- 2 tbsp rum, brandy, or milk (depending on preference)
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for coating, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base
- Break the biscuits into small chunks (not crumbs, keep them chunky for texture).
- Toast the nuts lightly in a pan for extra flavor, then chop them roughly.
- Make the chocolate mixture
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until creamy.
- Add in the eggs (or yolks), whisking well.
- Mix in cocoa powder, melted dark chocolate, rum (or milk), and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Combine
- Add the crushed biscuits, chopped nuts, and dried fruits into the chocolate mixture.
- Stir until everything is coated and forms a sticky, chunky dough.
- Shape into salami
- Place the mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Shape into a log, roll tightly, and wrap well.
- Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (or overnight) until firm.
- Finish & Serve
- Once firm, unwrap and roll in powdered sugar to mimic real salami skin.
- Slice into thin rounds and serve with coffee, tea, or as a dessert platter addition.
Methods & Tips
- If concerned about raw eggs, substitute with condensed milk (about 150 g) or pasteurized egg yolks.
- For extra crunch, add crushed pretzels or cornflakes.
- For a boozy version, use Marsala wine, Amaretto, or rum.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 2 months.
History
Chocolate salami became popular in Italy and Portugal during the 20th century as a festive treat. It was especially beloved because it was inexpensive, easy to prepare, and resembled real salami—a playful twist on tradition. Today, it’s also made in Russia, Greece, and Eastern Europe with regional variations (some using condensed milk instead of eggs).
Benefits
- Quick & No-Bake – No oven required.
- Customizable – Add your favorite nuts, cookies, or dried fruit.
- Kid-Friendly – Fun to make and shape.
- Perfect Gift – Wrapped beautifully, it makes a unique homemade present.
Nutrition (per slice, about 40 g)
- Calories: ~210
- Carbs: 22 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sugar: 14 g
Lovers of This Dessert
- Chocolate fans craving something unique.
- People who enjoy playful, “trompe-l’œil” foods.
- Holiday hosts looking for a crowd-pleaser.
- Kids who love helping in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Chocolate salami is a delightful no-bake dessert that mixes crunchy, fudgy, nutty, and sweet all in one bite. It’s a treat with history, fun presentation, and endless variations—perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just satisfying a chocolate craving.