There’s nothing quite like the unmistakable allure of chocolate to brighten your day, especially when it comes in the form of No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars. I stumbled upon this Malaysian twist while reminiscing about my childhood, where no-bake desserts ruled my family gatherings. The delightful fusion of creamy cheese layered atop a crunchy biscuit base weaves memories of laughter and indulgence into every bite.
Preparation is incredibly simple, allowing you to whip these up without turning on your oven. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something sweet but want to avoid the fuss of baking, these bars are a nostalgic trip that also cater to modern palates. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this easy yet impressive dessert is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Join me as we embark on this delightful, no-bake adventure that promises to satisfy your chocolate cravings and bring a taste of Malaysia straight to your home!
Why are No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars irresistible?
Ease of Preparation: Whip these bars up in no time without any baking fuss—perfect for busy weekdays!
Decadent Flavor: The chocolate paired with creamy cheese creates a luxurious taste that is hard to resist.
Versatile Treat: Customize with your favorite chocolate drink powder or add nuts for an extra crunch!
Nostalgic Touch: Each bite transports you to childhood memories, making them a beloved dessert at any gathering.
Impressive Presentation: Beautifully swirled ganache over a creamy layer makes them as delightful to look at as to eat!
Dive into the world of indulgence and discover why these easy and delicious bars are a must-try in your kitchen!
No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; you can use salted butter for a savory twist.
• Condensed Milk – Essential for sweetness and creaminess; make sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated.
• Large Eggs – Act as a binding agent; remember to bring them to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Milo Powder or Nesquick – Infuses chocolate flavor and sweetness; feel free to substitute with cocoa powder combined with sugar if needed.
• Cocoa Powder – Deepens the overall chocolate experience; Dutch-processed cocoa will yield a smoother taste.
• Plain Marie Biscuits – Provide structure and crunch; digestive biscuits are a good substitute if you can’t find Marie.
For the Ganache
• Milk Chocolate – Adds sweetness to the topping; consider using dark chocolate for a rich flavor contrast.
• Whipping Cream – Used to create a stable ganache; heavy cream will yield the best results.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream Cheese – Brings a creamy texture to the top layer; if omitting, double the amount of whipping cream.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer; stick to powdered sugar, as granulated sugar isn’t a suitable replacement.
These No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars will take you on a nostalgic culinary journey, full of flavor and memories!
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars
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Prepare Cake Mixture: In a pan, combine unsalted butter, large eggs, condensed milk, milo powder, and cocoa over low-medium heat. Stir until the mixture is shiny and thick, approximately 5-7 minutes.
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Add Biscuits: Break the Plain Marie biscuits into quarters, then add them to the chocolate mixture. Stir until every piece is evenly coated and the biscuits are mixed in well.
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Chill: Pour the mixture into a lined 22×22 cm square pan. Compact it down firmly with a spatula and chill in the fridge for about 4 hours or until set.
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Make Ganache: In a bowl, combine chopped milk chocolate and whipping cream. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and icing sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the whipping cream, continuing to mix until the mixture thickens and forms soft peaks.
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Assemble: Once the base is well chilled, spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the chocolate layer. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula. Pipe the ganache over the top in lines and create swirls using a skewer for a decorative touch.
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Final Chill: Return the assembled bars to the refrigerator and chill overnight before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Drizzle additional melted chocolate on top for an extra dose of decadence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars Variations
Explore how to personalize your No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars, adding a twist to this crowd-pleasing treat!
- Alternative Chocolate: Replace Milo or Nesquick with your go-to chocolate drink powder for a custom flavor experience. Each variation brings a slightly different sweetness and essence.
- Nutty Surprise: Add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits between biscuit layers for delightful surprises with every bite. The contrast of crunchy bits elevates the texture beautifully.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out the cream cheese and heavy cream for non-dairy alternatives to enjoy a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess. Feel free to explore coconut or almond-based cream options!
- Spiced Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor that makes these bars even more inviting. It’s a small change with a big impact!
- Crunchy Layer: Mix crushed pretzels or rice crispy cereal into the biscuit base for an unexpected crunch that complements the creamy topping and adds texture to your bars.
- Fruity Fill: Fold in small pieces of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or bananas, into the cream cheese layer for a refreshing twist that brightens the dessert.
- Extra Sweetness: Drizzle caramel or honey over the top before serving to add a luscious touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Gourmet Garnish: Top with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for an elegant presentation, making your No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars look as good as they taste!
What to Serve with No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars?
Think of the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweet, rich bars, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the chocolate layers, creating a decadent, delightful combination.
- Coffee: The slight bitterness of a freshly brewed cup enhances the chocolaty sweetness, making every bite an absolute pleasure.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a fluffy contrast to the dense bars, creating a delightful texture experience.
- Mint Tea: A warm, soothing cup of mint tea refreshes the palate, balancing the richness of the chocolate pleasantly.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some extra chocolate sauce over the top for serious chocoholics looking for that extra indulgence!
For an added touch, consider serving the bars with a side of candied nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for an unexpected flavor twist.
Expert Tips for No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature eggs and cream cheese for smoother mixing and a creamier texture in your No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars.
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Compact the Mixture: Make sure to firmly press down the biscuit mixture into the pan to avoid crumbling when cutting, ensuring neat, beautiful slices.
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Monitor Ganache Temperature: Be careful not to overheat your ganache while melting the chocolate; heat it in short intervals and stir well to prevent splitting.
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Chilling Time: Allow for enough chilling time in the fridge; these bars need at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight is best for optimal flavor.
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Customization Ideas: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate drink powders or add-ins like nuts and dried fruits to personalize the bars to your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who are short on time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chocolate base and chill it in the fridge for up to 3 days ahead of time, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the cream cheese layer can be whipped and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain its fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the cream cheese layer over the chilled base, pipe the ganache, and return to the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the ganache to set perfectly. This way, you’re guaranteed delicious, hassle-free bars with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars
- Fridge: Store the No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will keep them fresh and maintain their creamy texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. This will help maintain the creamy consistency without compromising flavor.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these bars; simply enjoy them chilled for the best experience!
No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of biscuits should I use for No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars?
You can use Plain Marie biscuits for their perfect crunch and texture, but if they’re not available, Digestive biscuits can make a great substitute. Just ensure they provide a stable base to hold everything together!
How long can I store No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars?
Keep these delightful bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They maintain their fresh flavor and creamy texture this way, making them perfect for snacking or dessert throughout the week!
Can I freeze No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars?
Absolutely! These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re craving a treat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before indulging.
How do I know if my ganache is too hot?
To prevent splitting, it’s crucial to monitor the ganache while melting. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval. If the chocolate is too hot to touch, let it sit for a minute before stirring. It should be smooth and glossy, not oily or separated.
Are there any allergies I should consider when making these bars?
Definitely! If you’re serving these to guests, be mindful of common allergens. This recipe contains eggs, dairy (butter, cream cheese, and whipping cream), and gluten (from biscuits). Consider using substitutes like non-dairy cream cheese or gluten-free biscuits for anyone with allergies.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to customize my No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars?
Absolutely! You can swap Milo or Nesquick with your favorite chocolate drink powder for a personal touch. Additionally, feel free to mix in finely chopped nuts or dried fruits into the biscuit layer for an added crunch and depth of flavor. The more, the merrier!
No-Bake Chocolate Biscuit Bars: A Creamy Malaysian Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pan, combine unsalted butter, large eggs, condensed milk, milo powder, and cocoa over low-medium heat. Stir until the mixture is shiny and thick, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Break the Plain Marie biscuits into quarters, then add them to the chocolate mixture. Stir until every piece is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a lined 22x22 cm square pan. Compact it down firmly with a spatula and chill in the fridge for about 4 hours or until set.
- In a bowl, combine chopped milk chocolate and whipping cream. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and icing sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the whipping cream, continuing to mix until the mixture thickens and forms soft peaks.
- Once the base is well chilled, spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the chocolate layer. Pipe the ganache over the top in lines and create swirls using a skewer.
- Return the assembled bars to the refrigerator and chill overnight before serving for the best flavor and texture.