As a dessert enthusiast who’s always searching for quick yet impressive recipes, I can confidently say these chocolate peanut rolls are a game-changer. Drawing inspiration from traditional European chocolate salami and American peanut butter cups, this no-bake dessert combines the best of both worlds into an irresistible treat that’s ready in minutes.
Time Requirements
- Preparation: 5 minutes
- Chilling: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yields: 15-18 rolls
Ingredients
For the Roll Base
- 350g (12.3 oz) plain biscuits/cookies (Marie or Digestive)
- 85g (3 oz or ¾ cup) crushed peanuts
- 85g (⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- 180ml (¾ cup) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 packet vanillin
- 45g (½ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 110g (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Coating
- 90g (3.2 oz) milk chocolate
- 30g (1 oz) dark chocolate
- 30g (2 tablespoons) vegetable oil
For Garnish
- 70g (⅔ cup) ground peanuts
Detailed Instructions
1. Creating the Base Mixture
- Start with the biscuit preparation:
- Place biscuits in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed
- Alternatively, place in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin
- Aim for fine, even crumbs for the best texture
- In a large mixing bowl:
- Combine crushed biscuits with crushed peanuts
- Mix well to ensure even distribution
2. Preparing the Binding Mixture
- In a separate bowl, create your wet mixture:
- Combine melted butter with sugar
- Add milk and vanilla extract
- Whisk in cocoa powder until completely smooth
- Ensure no cocoa lumps remain
- Combine wet and dry ingredients:
- Pour chocolate mixture over biscuit mixture
- Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined
- Texture should be moldable but not too sticky
3. Shaping the Rolls
- Prepare your workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Keep hands slightly damp to prevent sticking
- Shape the mixture:
- Take about 2 tablespoons of mixture for each roll
- Shape into logs approximately 2-3 inches long
- Ensure uniform size for even freezing
- Initial chilling:
- Place shaped rolls on prepared tray
- Freeze for 1 hour until completely firm
4. Chocolate Coating Process
- Prepare the chocolate glaze:
- Combine both chocolates and oil in a microwave-safe bowl
- Microwave in 30-second intervals
- Stir between each interval until smooth
- Let cool slightly while maintaining liquid consistency
5. Final Assembly
- Coating process:
- Remove rolls from freezer
- Dip each roll in melted chocolate
- Work quickly to prevent softening
- Finishing touches:
- Immediately sprinkle with ground peanuts
- Place on fresh parchment paper
- Allow to set completely
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Temperature Control: Keep rolls cold between steps
- Texture Management:
- If mixture is too dry: Add milk 1 teaspoon at a time
- If too wet: Add more crushed biscuits gradually
- Coating Tips:
- Use fork or dipping tool for neater chocolate coating
- Tap excess chocolate off gently
- Work in small batches to keep rolls cold
Variations and Additions
Flavor Enhancements
- Add 1 tablespoon honey for extra binding and flavor
- Include 1 tablespoon instant coffee for mocha flavor
- Add orange zest for chocolate-orange variation
Coating Options
- Use white chocolate for contrast
- Try colored chocolate for special occasions
- Roll in coconut instead of peanuts
Nutrition Information
Per roll (based on 18 rolls):
- Calories: 225
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
Storage Guidelines
Short-term Storage
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
- Best served slightly chilled
Long-term Storage
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight
- Do not thaw at room temperature
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare rolls without coating and freeze for up to 2 months
- Coat with chocolate just before serving
- Store uncoated rolls between layers of parchment paper
These no-bake chocolate peanut rolls are perfect for:
- Last-minute dessert needs
- Holiday gift-giving
- Children’s parties
- Summer entertaining when you don’t want to use the oven
The combination of chocolate, peanuts, and cookies creates an irresistible treat that’s both sophisticated and fun. Their quick preparation time and impressive presentation make them an ideal choice for any occasion.
