This Cookie Crumb Layered Delight is a testament to what can be achieved with simple ingredients and a little creativity. With a crunchy base of cookie crumbs mixed with cocoa and butter, topped with rich and smooth chocolate and white layers, this dessert combines textures and flavors in a delightful way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring success in every slice.
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 120g cookies (crushed)
- 50g butter (melted)
- 15g cocoa powder (about 2 tablespoons)
- 15g powdered sugar (about 1 tablespoon)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 egg yolk
- 30g corn starch (about 2 tablespoons)
- 60g sugar (about ¼ cup)
- 350ml milk (about 1 ½ cups)
- 20g cocoa powder (about 2 tablespoons)
- 80g butter (about 5 ½ tablespoons)
For the White Layer:
- 1 egg yolk
- 30g corn starch (about 2 tablespoons)
- 60g sugar (about ¼ cup)
- 350ml milk (about 1 ½ cups)
- 80g butter (about 5 ½ tablespoons)
For Decoration:
- A handful of walnuts (toasted and chopped)
- 25g dark chocolate (melted)
Directions:
- Prepare the Base:
- Crush the Cookies: In a bowl, crush 120g of cookies into fine crumbs.
- Mix: Melt 50g of butter and combine with the cookie crumbs, 15g cocoa powder, and 15g powdered sugar.
- Press: Press the mixture into the bottom of a square or rectangular dish to form a compact base.
- Refrigerate: Chill for a few minutes to set the base.
- Make the Chocolate Layer:
- Whisk Ingredients: In a saucepan, whisk together 1 egg yolk, 30g corn starch, 60g sugar, 350ml milk, and 20g cocoa powder until smooth.
- Cook: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add Butter: Remove from heat and stir in 80g of butter until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour: Pour the chocolate layer over the cookie base and smooth the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate until set.
- Make the White Layer:
- Repeat Process: Follow the same process as for the chocolate layer, but omit the cocoa powder.
- Pour: Once thickened and butter is incorporated, pour the white layer over the set chocolate layer and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate: Chill until set.
- Decorate:
- Toast Walnuts: Lightly toast a handful of walnuts in a dry pan, then chop roughly.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt 25g of dark chocolate.
- Sprinkle and Drizzle: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the white layer and drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert until fully set (about 4 hours).
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.
Additional Information:
Cooking Tips:
- Smooth Layers: Ensure each layer is fully set before pouring the next one to keep the layers distinct.
- Even Crust: Press the base firmly to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or tea.
- You can also top it with whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This dessert contains a rich combination of calcium and proteins from milk and butter.
- Walnuts add healthy fats and a delightful crunch.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This dessert is suitable for vegetarians but contains dairy and eggs.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or replace them with another topping like toasted coconut flakes if you have a nut allergy.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The contrasting chocolate and vanilla layers make it visually appealing and deliciously creamy.
- It’s a no-bake recipe, so it’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
- The added texture of the walnuts and dark chocolate drizzle creates a delightful mix of flavors and crunch.
- Perfect for special occasions or as a simple treat when you’re craving something sweet.
Conclusion:
This layered dessert brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and vanilla with a buttery cookie base for a balanced and elegant treat. Whether served for a dinner party or enjoyed as a casual snack, the combination of creamy layers and crunchy toppings is sure to satisfy. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dessert will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use any type of cookies for the base?
Yes, you can use digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or any plain cookie of your choice. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge until ready to serve. - What can I substitute for walnuts?
You can use almonds, pecans, or skip the nuts altogether and add a sprinkle of coconut flakes or chocolate shavings. - Is this dessert suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the dessert, but let it thaw in the fridge before serving. - Can I make this dessert egg-free?
Yes, you can substitute the egg yolk with a cornstarch slurry or use an egg replacer. - How do I prevent the layers from mixing?
Ensure each layer is fully set in the fridge before adding the next layer to avoid mixing. - Can I add flavors to the white layer?
Yes, you can add vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor. - What size pan should I use?
A square or rectangular pan, approximately 8×8 inches or similar, works well. - Can I use milk alternatives?
Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative, though it may affect the creaminess slightly. - How long does this dessert take to set?
The dessert needs about 4 hours to fully set in the refrigerator for the best results.