Italian Chocolate Salami, or Salame di Cioccolato, is a no-bake dessert that looks like a traditional salami but tastes like a decadent chocolate treat. Combining rich dark chocolate, crunchy biscuits, and toasted nuts, this elegant and easy-to-make dessert is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe requires no baking, making it simple and convenient to prepare. The combination of smooth chocolate, crunchy cookies, and nuts delivers a delightful contrast of textures. The optional addition of rum or Marsala wine adds depth and complexity to the flavor. Shaped like a salami and dusted with powdered sugar, it makes an eye-catching centerpiece for dessert trays or gift boxes.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
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unsalted butter, softened
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granulated sugar
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milk
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dry cookies (e.g., tea biscuits), broken into chunks
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chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios)
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rum or Marsala wine (optional)
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powdered sugar, for dusting
directions
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Melt Chocolate:
In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the dark chocolate gently. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. -
Prepare Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate, milk, and rum or Marsala wine if using. Mix thoroughly. -
Add Cookies and Nuts:
Fold the broken cookie chunks and chopped nuts into the chocolate mixture until evenly distributed. -
Shape Salami:
Transfer the mixture onto a large sheet of parchment paper. Shape it into a log resembling a salami. Wrap tightly in parchment paper, twisting the ends to seal securely. -
Chill:
Refrigerate the chocolate salami for at least 2 hours or until firm. -
Serve:
Remove the wrapping, dust the log generously with powdered sugar to mimic the look of salami casing, then slice into rounds and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 slices.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: about 2 hours 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 340 per slice
Variations
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Substitute milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for a milder flavor.
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Use different nuts such as walnuts or pecans depending on preference.
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Add dried fruit like chopped cherries or cranberries for a fruity touch.
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Omit alcohol for a child-friendly version or substitute with vanilla extract.
storage/reheating
Store Italian Chocolate Salami wrapped tightly in parchment paper and placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing. No reheating is necessary as it is served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use a microwave to melt the chocolate?
Yes, microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth.
What kind of cookies work best?
Dry, crunchy cookies like tea biscuits, digestive biscuits, or shortbread work well.
Can I make this vegan?
Substitute dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives such as coconut oil and plant-based milk.
How do I get a smooth texture?
Ensure the butter is softened and mix thoroughly with the melted chocolate for a creamy base.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, it improves in flavor when refrigerated overnight.
How should I slice the salami?
Use a sharp knife and cut into thin rounds for best presentation.
Can I add other flavorings?
Yes, vanilla extract, orange zest, or cinnamon can complement the chocolate nicely.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free cookies.
How do I store leftover slices?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within a week.
Can I make smaller individual portions?
Yes, shape the mixture into mini logs or use silicone molds for bite-sized treats.
Conclusion
Italian Chocolate Salami is a wonderfully easy and impressive dessert that combines rich chocolate, crunchy biscuits, and nuts into a charming, no-bake treat. Its unique appearance and delicious flavor make it perfect for festive gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to dessert making, this recipe is sure to delight.
Print
Italian Chocolate Salami (Salame di Cioccolato)
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Try this classic Italian Chocolate Salami (Salame di Cioccolato)—a no-bake, rich chocolate dessert studded with crunchy cookies and nuts. Its unique salami shape and decadent flavors make it a perfect holiday treat or gift that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Melt Chocolate:
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Place dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler). Stir until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
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Prepare Mixture:
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In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add melted chocolate, milk, and rum (if using); mix thoroughly.
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Fold in broken cookies and chopped nuts until evenly incorporated.
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Shape Salami:
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Transfer mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Shape into a log resembling a salami.
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Wrap tightly with parchment paper, twisting the ends to seal well.
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Chill:
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
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Serve:
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Unwrap and dust with powdered sugar.
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Slice into rounds and enjoy.
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Notes
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Substitute rum with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
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Use gluten-free cookies to make it gluten-free.
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Store in refrigerator up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: Italian