No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Biscuit Cake

Ingredients:

• • 60 g cocoa powder (about 1/2 cup)
  • 120 g sugar (about 1/2 cup)

• • 250 ml milk (1 cup), added gradually
  • 160 g butter (about 3/4 cup)
  • 1 pinch vanilla powder (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)

• • 400 g biscuits (about 14 oz), broken into small pieces
  • 100 g peanuts (about 1/2 cup), roughly chopped
  • 200 ml milk (3/4 cup)

• 4 g agar-agar (1 1/2 tsp)
• 150 g dark chocolate (about 5 oz), chopped

Directions:

1️⃣ Prepare Chocolate Base: In a pot, combine the cocoa powder and sugar. Gradually add 250 ml of milk while stirring constantly to ensure no lumps form.

2️⃣ Cook the Mixture: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat.

3️⃣ Add Butter and Vanilla: Add the butter and a pinch of vanilla powder (or vanilla extract), stirring until the butter melts and everything is well combined.

4️⃣ Mix with Biscuits and Peanuts: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate mixture with the broken biscuit pieces and chopped peanuts, stirring until the biscuits and peanuts are fully coated.

5️⃣ Refrigerate the Cake: Transfer the mixture to a lined cake pan or mold, pressing it down to compact the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 4-5 hours until set.

6️⃣ Prepare Agar Mixture: In a separate pot, add 200 ml of milk and 4 g of agar-agar. Stir constantly over medium heat and bring to a boil to activate the agar.

7️⃣ Add Dark Chocolate: Once the agar mixture reaches a boil, add the dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

8️⃣ Pour Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the chilled biscuit cake in an even layer. Return to the refrigerator for an additional 20 minutes to set the chocolate layer.

5 Serving Suggestions:

• • Slice and serve with fresh berries for a burst of freshness.
  • Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving.

• • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Garnish with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for added texture.
  • Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.

5 Cooking Tips:

1. 1. Stir Constantly: While cooking the cocoa mixture, stir constantly to prevent burning or clumping.
   2. Gradual Milk Addition: Add milk gradually to avoid lumps in the cocoa mixture.
   3. Compact the Biscuit Mixture: Press the mixture firmly into the mold to ensure the cake holds its shape.

1. Agar-agar Activation: Boil the agar-agar mixture to ensure it sets properly.
2. Chill Completely: Allow ample chilling time for each layer to set for clean slices.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Cocoa: Rich in antioxidants and may help improve heart health.

• • Peanuts: A good source of protein and healthy fats.
  • Dark Chocolate: Contains antioxidants that may improve brain function.
  • Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D.

• Agar-agar: A vegan gelatin alternative, containing fiber.