This chocolate salami is a rich, chocolatey no-bake dessert that looks like a classic salami but is completely sweet and plant-based. Made without butter, cream, or dairy, it relies on naturally sweet prunes for moisture, structure, and balance. The result is a not-too-sweet treat with a satisfying texture, perfect for slicing and sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, wholesome, and requires no baking at all. It comes together with just a handful of pantry ingredients and delivers deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. The use of prunes replaces refined sugar and fats while adding fiber and natural sweetness. It is elegant enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for everyday treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces prunes
• ½ cup hot brewed coffee or espresso
• 12 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 7 ounces tea biscuits or digestive-style cookies
• ½ cup shelled pistachios
• ½ cup walnuts
• Optional: 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Directions

Pour the hot coffee over the prunes and allow them to soak for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, until fully plump.
Drain the prunes, reserving the soaking liquid. Blend the prunes in a food processor or high-speed blender, adding the reserved liquid a few tablespoons at a time, until the mixture reaches a smooth, ketchup-like consistency.

Break the tea biscuits into pieces about ½ inch in size. Do not crush them into crumbs.

Place the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Stir the prune puree, vanilla extract, and sea salt into the melted chocolate until well combined.

Add the broken biscuits, pistachios, and walnuts. Stir until all pieces are evenly coated. If the mixture is very warm, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes so it firms slightly.

Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper on a flat surface. Spoon half of the mixture onto the center and shape it into a log about 10 inches long and 2½ inches in diameter. Roll tightly and twist the ends to seal. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Refrigerate the logs for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. Once set, unwrap and optionally dust with confectioner’s sugar. Slice into rounds and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 chocolate salami logs, yielding about 16 servings total.
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional resting time of 30 minutes.
Each serving is about 4 slices.

Variations

You can customize this chocolate salami easily by changing the mix-ins. Substitute walnuts or pistachios with almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews. Add up to ¼ cup dried fruit such as chopped apricots or raisins for extra texture. For a stronger flavor profile, replace the coffee with strongly brewed black tea or herbal tea.

Storage/Reheating

Store chocolate salami in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, slice the salami, separate slices with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This recipe does not require reheating.

FAQs

What is chocolate salami made of?

Chocolate salami is made from melted chocolate mixed with cookies, nuts, and binding ingredients such as prunes, then shaped into a log and chilled.

Does chocolate salami contain meat?

No, chocolate salami only looks like meat. It is a completely sweet dessert with no animal protein involved.

Can I make chocolate salami without coffee?

Yes, you can replace coffee with hot water or brewed tea without affecting the structure of the recipe.

Is this chocolate salami dairy-free?

Yes, as long as you use dairy-free dark chocolate and biscuits, the recipe is completely dairy-free.

Are prunes necessary in this recipe?

Yes, prunes act as the natural sweetener and binder, replacing butter, cream, and added sugar.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, the recipe is naturally plant-based when vegan-friendly chocolate and biscuits are used.

How sweet is chocolate salami?

It is mildly sweet, with most of the sweetness coming from dark chocolate and prunes.

Can I freeze chocolate salami?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months when properly wrapped.

What is the best way to slice chocolate salami?

Use a sharp knife and slice when the salami is cold but not fully frozen for clean cuts.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe doubles easily and is ideal for gatherings or gifting.

Conclusion

This healthy chocolate salami is proof that indulgent desserts can also be simple and nourishing. With no baking, no dairy, and no refined sugar, it is a smart and satisfying treat that looks impressive and tastes even better. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying straight from the fridge, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dessert rotation.

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