This impressive chocolate dessert requires no baking skills yet delivers bakery-quality results that will make you the star of any gathering. By transforming simple cookies into an elegant layered cake with rich chocolate coating, this recipe proves that the most memorable desserts often come from the simplest techniques. Perfect for potlucks, family visits, or whenever you need a show-stopping dessert without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base:
- 500g plain cookies or biscuits, broken into pieces (17.6 oz)
- 75g walnuts, chopped (2.6 oz / about 3/4 cup)
- 120g granulated sugar (4.2 oz / about 1/2 cup)
- 60g unsweetened cocoa powder (2.1 oz / about 1/2 cup)
- 250ml whole milk (8.5 fl oz / 1 cup)
- 150g butter, softened (5.3 oz / about 2/3 cup)
- Pinch of vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze:
- 160g dark chocolate, chopped (5.6 oz)
- 30g butter (1 oz / 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Mixture
- Break the cookies into irregular pieces, leaving some larger chunks for texture. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add chopped walnuts to the cookie pieces and mix together.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and milk. Whisk until smooth with no lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the hot chocolate mixture over the cookie and walnut pieces.
- Mix thoroughly until all cookies are well coated with the chocolate mixture.
Shape and Chill
- Line a round cake pan or serving plate with plastic wrap for easy removal.
- Press the cookie mixture firmly into the pan, creating an even, compact layer.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely set.
Prepare the Glaze
- Place chopped dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl.
- Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or use short microwave intervals.
- Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Let cool for 5 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
Finish the Cake
- Remove the chilled cake from the refrigerator and turn out onto a serving plate.
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides naturally.
- Use a spatula to spread the glaze evenly if needed.
- Return to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the glaze before serving.
Time, Servings & Nutrition
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4.5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours
Servings: 8-10 slices
Nutrition (per slice): Approximately 420 calories, 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, 22g fat, 4g fiber
Why This Dessert is Perfect for Sharing
This no-bake cake offers a more controlled approach to indulgent desserts by using wholesome ingredients like walnuts for healthy fats and protein, while the cocoa provides antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Unlike store-bought cakes filled with preservatives and artificial ingredients, this homemade version allows you to control the quality of ingredients and sugar content.
The combination of cookies and nuts provides sustained energy rather than the quick sugar spike of typical desserts, while the dark chocolate glaze contributes flavonoids that may support brain function. The make-ahead nature of this dessert makes it ideal for stress-free entertaining, and its impressive appearance ensures it will be appreciated at any gathering while providing a satisfying treat that’s more nutritionally balanced than many commercial alternatives.