Q : What is chocolate salami called in Italy?

A : In Italy, chocolate salami is known as salame al cioccolato . It’s a popular homemade dessert, especially around Christmas and Easter.

Q : How long does chocolate salami last?

A : When wrapped well and stored in the fridge, chocolate salami can last for up to 1 month. Always keep it chilled and slice just before serving for the best texture.

Q : What does chocolate salami taste like?

A : Chocolate salami tastes like a rich sliceable chocolate truffle or biscuit cake: fudgy from the chocolate and butter, crunchy from the cookies and nuts, with pops of sweetness from dried fruit and citrus

Q : Does chocolate salami need to be refrigerated?

A : Yes. Because it contains butter and melted chocolate, chocolate salami should be stored in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before slicing so it’s easier to cut and the flavors open up

Q : Can I make chocolate salami without alcohol?

A : Absolutely. Simply swap the brandy for orange juice or another fruit juice. You’ll still get a lovely flavor from the dried fruit and orange zest.

Homemade Chocolate Salami – The Perfect Edible Gift

Name: Homemade Chocolate Salami – The Perfect Edible Gift
Prep time: PT-497255H25M21S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-497255H25M21S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 75 g (½ cup) dried fruit like dried cranberries, apricots, figs or cherries (if you are using bigger fruit chop them into bite sized pieces); 2 tbsp brandy (or orange juice); Zest of 1 small orange; 200 g (7 oz) good quality dark chocolate, chopped or callets; 125 g (1 stick) unsalted butter; 50 g (⅓ cup) toasted nuts like almonds, pistachios hazelnuts or pecans, roughly chopped; 100 g (3 ½ oz) cookies like amaretti, shortbread, digestives or gingersnaps, roughly crushed; Pinch of sea salt; Optional Add-In: 1 tsp espresso powder (mix in with the nuts and cookies for a deeper chocolate flavour); 1 ½ tbsp powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

Description

This chocolate salami is a fun no-bake Italian dessert made with dark chocolate, toasted nuts, dried fruit, and crunchy cookie pieces. It looks just like a real salami, slices beautifully, and makes the perfect edible gift for Christmas, hostess gifts, or special occasions. Easy to prep ahead, it keeps well in the fridge so you’re always ready with a homemade treat.

Ingredients

75 g (1/2 cup) dried fruit like dried cranberries, apricots, figs or cherries (if you are using bigger fruit chop them into bite sized pieces)

2 tbsp brandy (or orange juice)

Zest of 1 small orange

200 g (7 oz) good quality dark chocolate, chopped or callets

125 g (1 stick) unsalted butter

50 g (1/3 cup) toasted nuts like almonds, pistachios hazelnuts or pecans, roughly chopped

100 g (3 1/2 oz) cookies like amaretti, shortbread, digestives or gingersnaps, roughly crushed

Pinch of sea salt

Optional Add-In: 1 tsp espresso powder (mix in with the nuts and cookies for a deeper chocolate flavour)

1 1/2 tbsp powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

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Instructions

Soak fruit

Place the chopped dried fruit, brandy (or orange juice), and orange zest in a small bowl. Cover and soak for 15–20 minutes.

Melt chocolate

In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat.

Chef’s Tip: Make sure the bottom of your bowl doesn’t touch the water.

Mix in extras

Stir in nuts, crushed cookies, sea salt, espresso powder (if using), and soaked fruit with their liquid.Mix until everything is well coated. Set aside at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens enough to hold its shape.

Shape logs

Divide mixture between two sheets of parchment paper. Shape into logs about 18 cm (7 in) long. Roll tightly in the paper, twisting the ends. Roll each log gently on the work surface to smooth.

Chef’s Tip: If your chocolate mixture is still not set enough to shape, divide the mix, place on the two parchment sheets on a baking tray and place in the fridge for 5-10 minutes.

Chill

Refrigerate for 4–5 hours or overnight until firm.

Finish

Unwrap, dust generously with powdered sugar, and rub off the excess for a powdery look. Tie with kitchen string for an authentic “salami” look if desired.

Chef’s Tip: Here’s a short video to show you how to tie your chocolate salami to get that authentic look.

Serve

Slice into 1 cm (½ in) rounds before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 1 month. Bring to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Fridge: Wrap tightly and store in the fridge for up to 1 month. Let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Make Ahead Instructions: Can be made several days (or up to a couple of weeks) ahead; dust with powdered sugar just before serving or gifting.

Freezer friendly: Can be frozen for up to 1–2 months if wrapped very well, but not recommended as the texture and appearance may change.

Prep Time: 30 minutes + chilling
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: No-Bake Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 131
Sugar: 6.9 g
Sodium: 37.5 mg
Fat: 9.2 g
Carbohydrates: 11.1 g
Protein: 1 g
Cholesterol: 11.7 mg