Chocolate squares for the saint

Delicious Chocolate Squares – A Indulgent Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours (ideally overnight)
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: 24 squares

Introduction

I invite you to discover a recipe that combines pleasure with delicious textures and chocolate flavors, perfect for any occasion. Chocolate squares are a quick, easy-to-make dessert that fits perfectly as a sweet snack or dessert for a festive meal. This recipe will bring a smile to your face and will surely impress anyone who tastes it!

Recipe History

Chocolate squares have a rich history, inspired by cooking traditions that use simple and accessible ingredients. These desserts have evolved over time, becoming favorites of many families due to their simplicity and versatility. Nowadays, they can be customized with various ingredients, from nuts to dried fruits, to suit everyone's tastes.

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 500g biscuits (preferably digestive or chocolate biscuits)
- 200g butter (melted)
- 150ml milk
- 120g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa (you can also use dark cocoa for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Nutella (optional, for added creaminess)
- 100g almonds (chopped or crushed)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence

*For the cream:*
- 250ml whipping cream
- 200g milk chocolate (or dark chocolate, for an interesting contrast)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 50g hazelnuts (optional)
- 50g raisins (or other dried fruits)

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the base
- Start by crushing the biscuits. You can use a food processor to finely grind them or place them in a bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This step is essential, as the crushed biscuits will form a solid base for your squares.
- In a large bowl, add the crushed biscuits, sugar, cocoa, almonds, and rum essence. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine them.

2. Adding wet ingredients
- In another container, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Then, add the milk and Nutella (if you chose to use it) and mix well.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix everything with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. The consistency should be moist and sticky but firm enough to be shaped.

3. Forming and cooling the base
- Place the mixture in a 20x30 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to level the surface and press it down well, ensuring it is compact.
- Put the tray in the refrigerator to firm up for 1–2 hours, or ideally overnight.

4. Preparing the delicious cream
- In a saucepan, heat the whipping cream over low heat, being careful not to let it boil.
- Add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes homogeneous. If desired, you can add the hazelnuts and raisins at this point.
- Let the cream cool for 10 minutes, then pour it evenly over the biscuit base.

5. Finalizing the preparation
- Place the tray back in the refrigerator and let it cool for 2–3 hours until the cream sets well.
- Once cooled, remove from the tray and cut into squares. Place them in muffin liners for a nicer presentation.

Serving and Suggestions

These delicious chocolate squares can be served as a dessert at a special meal or as a sweet snack during the day. You can add a dollop of whipped cream on top or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a temperature contrast. They also pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea.

Useful Tips

- If you want to give them a touch of originality, you can replace the almonds with pistachios or pecans. You can also add coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
- Use high-quality chocolate to achieve a smooth and flavorful cream.
- These squares can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to a week, but they are so delicious that they certainly won't last that long!

Nutritional Information

Each square contains approximately:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Proteins: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gluten-free biscuits?
Yes, you can use gluten-free biscuits to make this recipe suitable for those with intolerances.

2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace the butter with vegan margarine, the cream with a plant-based alternative, and ensure that the biscuits and chocolate are vegan.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add dried fruits, seeds, or even a bit of instant coffee for a more intense flavor.

Discover the joy of cooking with this simple and delicious chocolate square recipe. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, I am sure they will bring a touch of magic to every day!