When it comes to quick and easy desserts, nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction of a no-bake treat. This recipe is perfect for those days when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Combining a rich, velvety cream with a crunchy, chocolatey topping, this dessert is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The roasted peanuts add a satisfying crunch, while the chocolate layer brings a smooth and indulgent finish. Best of all, this dessert is incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a quiet night in.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Cream:

500 ml milk: The base of our cream, providing a smooth and creamy texture.

80 grams sugar: Adds sweetness to the cream, balancing the flavors perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla powder: Infuses the cream with a delicate vanilla aroma.
25 grams all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cream, giving it a custard-like consistency.

35 grams cornstarch: Works alongside the flour to create a stable, thick cream.
25 grams butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the cream.

For the Topping:

70 grams roasted peanuts: Provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy base.
125 grams milk chocolate: Creates a decadent layer that ties the dessert together.
Dry grated coconut (optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor and texture for those who love coconut.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream:

Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, vanilla powder, all-purpose flour, and cornstarch. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure all the dry ingredients are fully dissolved into the milk.
Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. As the mixture heats up, it will start to thicken. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cream coats the back of a spoon.

Incorporate the Butter: Once the cream has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in the butter until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the cream. The butter will give the cream a glossy finish and an extra layer of richness.
Set the Cream: Pour the hot cream into a serving dish or divide it evenly among individual dessert cups. Allow the cream to cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least an hour, or until it has fully set and firmed up.

2. Prepare the Topping:

Roast and Chop the Peanuts: If your peanuts aren’t already roasted, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast them for a few minutes until they’re golden brown and aromatic. Let them cool slightly before chopping them into small pieces.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, break the milk chocolate into pieces and microwave it in 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If you don’t have a microwave, you can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.
Assemble the Topping: Once the cream has set, pour the melted chocolate over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Quickly sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the chocolate before it begins to harden. If you’re using grated coconut, sprinkle it over the peanuts for an added layer of flavor.

3. Chill and Serve:

Final Chill: Place the assembled dessert back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to fully set and harden. This will also help the flavors meld together.
Serve: Once the dessert is fully chilled and the chocolate has set, it’s ready to be served. Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into slices if you’ve made it in a large dish, or simply serve it straight from the dessert cups. Each bite will offer a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness.

Cooking Tips:

Texture Control: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can reduce the amount of flour and cornstarch slightly. On the other hand, if you like your cream very thick, feel free to add a bit more cornstarch.
Flavor Variations: Try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cream mixture for a chocolate-flavored base, or mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
Nut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of peanuts or have a nut allergy, you can substitute the peanuts with toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or even omit the nuts entirely for a smooth dessert.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, though it’s unlikely to last that long once everyone gets a taste!
Freezing: This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs:

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the dessert a richer, slightly more bitter flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cream.

2. Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for preparing in advance. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

3. Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?

Yes, to make this dessert vegan, simply use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan chocolate. You can also substitute the cream with a coconut cream alternative for a tropical twist.

4. What if I don’t have vanilla powder?

If you don’t have vanilla powder, you can use vanilla extract instead. Just add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream mixture as it heats up.

Conclusion:

This addictive no-bake dessert is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. The creamy base, combined with the crunchy peanut and chocolate topping, creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion.