If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for any occasion, this Chocolate Biscuit Cake is the one to try. Beloved for its no-bake simplicity and luxurious texture, this dessert combines crunchy biscuits with a glossy chocolate ganache, creating a sliceable treat that’s both nostalgic and elegant.
Whether served as a tea-time sweet, a special occasion centerpiece, or a make-ahead dessert, chocolate biscuit cake delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s also famously known as one of the British royal family’s favorite treats — and with one bite, you’ll see why.
Ingredients
This recipe makes one standard 9-inch loaf or 8 to 10 slices.
For the Cake Base
- 400 grams digestive biscuits (or tea biscuits), roughly broken into small pieces
- 100 grams unsalted butter
- 100 grams dark chocolate (minimum 60% cocoa), chopped
- 100 grams milk chocolate, chopped
- 100 milliliters heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons honey or golden syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts or dried fruits
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 100 grams dark chocolate, chopped
- 50 milliliters heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon butter for shine
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base
- Line a loaf tin or square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method), melt the butter, dark and milk chocolate, and cream.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Remove from heat and mix in honey and vanilla extract.
- Add broken biscuit pieces and optional add-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
- Stir gently until all pieces are coated in the chocolate mixture.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Cake
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down gently with a spatula or back of a spoon to even the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours, or until firm and set.
Step 3: Make and Add the Ganache Topping
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream until just simmering.
- Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 1 minute.
- Stir until smooth, then mix in butter for a glossy finish.
- Pour ganache over the chilled biscuit base and smooth the top.
- Chill for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the ganache is firm.
Step 4: Serve
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the cake from the tin.
- Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean edges.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with cocoa powder or sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a gourmet finish.
- Pair with espresso or strong black tea to cut through the richness.
- For a celebration, top with gold leaf, berries, or edible flowers for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1 of 10) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 110 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Dark chocolate contributes antioxidants and a rich cocoa flavor.
- Digestive biscuits provide structure and crunch without baking.
- Customizable add-ins (like nuts or dried fruit) offer texture and added nutrition.
- No-bake preparation makes it ideal for warm weather or busy schedules.
Tips for Best Results
- Use good-quality chocolate for a rich, smooth flavor.
- Do not over-crush the biscuits — aim for uneven chunks for a better texture.
- Allow the cake to chill completely before slicing to ensure clean, neat servings.
- To cut easily, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry between slices.
Variations to Try
- Add chopped candied orange peel for a citrusy contrast.
- Swirl in peanut butter or Nutella before chilling for a flavor twist.
- Use gluten-free biscuits for a gluten-free version.
- Swap in white chocolate for a lighter, sweeter version of the topping.
Chocolate biscuit cake is the ultimate no-bake dessert: quick to prepare, easy to customize, and rich enough to satisfy any chocolate craving. With its firm yet creamy texture and crunchy bite, it’s a classic that stands the test of time — whether you’re serving guests or indulging in a private slice.