Chocolate Salami with Nutella: An Italian No-Bake Dessert

Chocolate Salami, or *Salame di Cioccolato*, is a delightful and incredibly easy no-bake Italian dessert that resembles a salami in appearance, but tastes like pure chocolate heaven. This version elevates the classic recipe with the irresistible addition of Nutella, creating a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to whip up on a weeknight or a unique and impressive treat to share with friends and family, this Chocolate Salami with Nutella is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

## What is Chocolate Salami?

Don’t let the name fool you – there’s no meat involved! Chocolate Salami gets its name from its log-like shape and the mottled appearance created by the broken biscuits throughout the chocolate mixture, resembling the fat marbling in a salami. It’s a popular dessert in Italy and Portugal, and there are many variations, each with its own unique twist.

This recipe stands out because of the use of Nutella, adding a creamy, hazelnut-infused richness that complements the dark chocolate beautifully. It’s a no-bake recipe, meaning no oven is required! It relies on chilling to set, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert, especially during warmer months.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Easy and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!
* **No-Bake:** Perfect for those hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The salami shape makes it a unique and visually appealing dessert.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different types of biscuits, nuts, or dried fruits.
* **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the chocolate salami days in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
* **Kid-Friendly:** A fun and delicious treat that kids will love to help make.
* **Nutella!:** The addition of Nutella elevates the flavor profile to a new level of deliciousness.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **200g Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa solids):** The quality of the chocolate matters. Use a good-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. The bitterness balances the sweetness of the Nutella.
* **100g Milk Chocolate:** Adds sweetness and creaminess to the mixture.
* **150g Butter (unsalted):** Butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
* **100g Granulated Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth texture.
* **2 Large Eggs:** Use pasteurized eggs or egg yolks for safety since this is a no-bake recipe. Eggs provide richness and help bind the ingredients.
* **200g Nutella:** The star ingredient! Nutella adds a creamy, hazelnut flavor that takes this chocolate salami to the next level.
* **250g Dry Biscuits (such as Digestive biscuits, Marie biscuits, or Petit Beurre):** The biscuits provide texture and structure to the salami. Break them into irregular pieces.
* **50g Cocoa Powder (for dusting):** Cocoa powder adds a beautiful finish and a slightly bitter note to balance the sweetness.
* **Optional Add-ins:**
* 50g Chopped Hazelnuts or Almonds: For added texture and flavor.
* 50g Dried Cranberries or Cherries: For a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
* 1 tbsp Rum or Coffee Liqueur: For an adult twist.
* Zest of 1 Orange: For a citrusy aroma.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Mixing Bowl
* Small Saucepan or Microwave-Safe Bowl
* Wooden Spoon or Spatula
* Cling Film (Plastic Wrap)
* Rolling Pin (optional, for crushing biscuits)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this decadent Chocolate Salami with Nutella:

**Step 1: Prepare the Biscuits**

* Place the biscuits in a large zip-lock bag. Seal the bag and use a rolling pin or your hands to crush the biscuits into irregular pieces. You want a mix of coarse and fine crumbs – avoid crushing them into a powder. Alternatively, you can break the biscuits by hand.

**Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter**

* **Microwave Method:** Break the dark chocolate and milk chocolate into small pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl along with the butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
* **Double Boiler Method:** Fill a saucepan with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring that the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and butter to the bowl. Stir occasionally until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth.

**Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients**

* Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
* Add the granulated sugar and eggs (or egg yolks) to the melted chocolate mixture. Whisk well until everything is combined and smooth. The mixture will thicken slightly.
* Add the Nutella to the chocolate mixture and stir until it’s fully incorporated. Ensure there are no streaks of Nutella remaining. The mixture should be rich, glossy and smooth.

**Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**

* Pour the crushed biscuits into the chocolate-Nutella mixture.
* Gently fold the biscuits into the mixture until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break the biscuits down further. If using any optional add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruits, fold them in at this stage.

**Step 5: Shape the Salami**

* Lay a large sheet of cling film (plastic wrap) on a flat surface. Spoon the chocolate mixture onto the cling film, forming a log shape. Try to make the log as even as possible in thickness.
* Carefully wrap the cling film tightly around the chocolate mixture, shaping it into a cylinder or salami shape. Twist the ends of the cling film tightly to seal the salami and help maintain its shape.
* Roll the salami back and forth on the counter to smooth out any bumps and create a uniform shape. You can also gently tap the ends of the salami on the counter to flatten them slightly, mimicking the shape of a real salami.

**Step 6: Chill the Salami**

* Place the wrapped chocolate salami in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the chocolate to set completely and the flavors to meld together.
* For faster chilling, you can place the salami in the freezer for 2-3 hours. However, be careful not to freeze it solid.

**Step 7: Dust and Serve**

* Once the chocolate salami is firm, remove it from the refrigerator or freezer.
* Unwrap the salami from the cling film.
* Place the cocoa powder in a shallow dish.
* Roll the chocolate salami in the cocoa powder until it is completely coated. This gives it a rustic appearance and adds a slightly bitter note that complements the sweetness of the chocolate.
* Using a sharp knife, slice the chocolate salami into thin rounds, just like you would a real salami.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips for Success

* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** The quality of the chocolate will greatly impact the flavor of the final product. Choose a good-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for the best results.
* **Don’t Overheat the Chocolate:** When melting the chocolate, be careful not to overheat it, as it can burn and become grainy. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently.
* **Break the Biscuits into Irregular Pieces:** Avoid crushing the biscuits into a powder. You want a mix of coarse and fine crumbs for the best texture.
* **Wrap the Salami Tightly:** Wrap the salami tightly in cling film to ensure it holds its shape and chills evenly.
* **Chill for Sufficient Time:** Allow the chocolate salami to chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the chocolate to set completely.
* **Use Pasteurized Eggs:** Since this is a no-bake recipe, use pasteurized eggs or egg yolks for safety.
* **Customize with Add-ins:** Get creative and add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or spices to customize the flavor of the salami.

## Variations and Adaptations

* **White Chocolate Salami:** Substitute the dark and milk chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter and creamier version. Add some chopped pistachios or dried cranberries for a festive touch.
* **Coffee Chocolate Salami:** Add a tablespoon of instant coffee powder to the melted chocolate mixture for a mocha-flavored salami. You can also soak the biscuits in coffee before adding them to the chocolate mixture.
* **Spiced Chocolate Salami:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the melted chocolate mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Vegan Chocolate Salami:** Use vegan chocolate and vegan biscuits. Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
* **Gluten-Free Chocolate Salami:** Use gluten-free biscuits to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
* **Nut-Free Chocolate Salami:** Omit the Nutella and add sunflower seed butter or tahini instead. Ensure that the biscuits you use are also nut-free.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve the Chocolate Salami sliced as part of a dessert platter.
* Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
* Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
* Wrap slices of the salami in parchment paper and tie with ribbon for a beautiful edible gift.
* Use the slices as a topping for cakes or cupcakes.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store the sliced or unsliced Chocolate Salami in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, wrap the salami tightly in cling film and then in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and serving.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per slice)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 10-12g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 50-70mg
* Carbohydrates: 25-30g
* Sugar: 15-20g
* Protein: 3-4g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.*

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use different types of chocolate?**
A: Yes, you can adjust the ratio of dark and milk chocolate to suit your preferences. You can also use white chocolate for a sweeter version.

**Q: Can I use different types of biscuits?**
A: Absolutely! Digestive biscuits, Marie biscuits, Petit Beurre, or any other dry biscuits will work well. Choose your favorite!

**Q: Can I omit the Nutella?**
A: While the Nutella adds a unique flavor, you can omit it if you prefer. Increase the amount of melted chocolate slightly to compensate for the missing volume.

**Q: How long does it take for the chocolate salami to set?**
A: It typically takes 4-6 hours in the refrigerator or 2-3 hours in the freezer for the chocolate to set completely.

**Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make the chocolate salami several days in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

**Q: Why is my chocolate salami too soft?**
A: This could be due to not chilling it for long enough, or using too much butter. Ensure you chill it for at least 4 hours and follow the recipe measurements closely.

**Q: Why is my chocolate salami too hard?**
A: This could be due to over-chilling it in the freezer. Thaw it slightly in the refrigerator before slicing.

**Q: Can I add alcohol to this recipe?**
A: Yes, you can add a tablespoon of rum, coffee liqueur, or other liqueur to the melted chocolate mixture for an adult twist.

**Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?**
A: Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as it does not contain any meat.

**Q: Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?**
A: No, egg whites will not provide the necessary richness and binding power. Use whole eggs or egg yolks.

## Conclusion

This Chocolate Salami with Nutella is a simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its no-bake nature, customizable ingredients, and decadent flavor make it a winner every time. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Italian chocolate heaven! Buon appetito!