Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chocolate Hazelnut Delight Bars?
These are a luscious and creamy no-bake dessert made with a blend of chocolate, crushed hazelnuts, and biscuit pieces, originating from Australian culinary traditions.
Is this recipe a no-bake dessert?
Yes, these bars are a no-bake treat, providing ease of preparation without the need for an oven.
How many bars does this recipe produce?
This recipe makes approximately 24 equal-sized bars, though you can adjust the size to your preference.
What size pan should I use for these bars?
An 18cm x 28cm (approximately 7" x 11") slice pan is recommended for this recipe.
What is the origin of the Chocolate Hazelnut Delight Bars?
This dessert originates from Australian traditions and is a classic choice for afternoon tea.
What ingredients are needed for the base?
The base consists of unsalted butter, icing sugar, cocoa, a lightly beaten egg, coconut, Marie biscuits or graham crackers, and crushed hazelnuts.
How do I prepare the biscuits for the recipe?
The biscuits should be broken into small pieces before being mixed into the base.
What kind of biscuits can I use?
You can use Marie biscuits or graham crackers for this recipe.
How should the hazelnuts be prepared?
The hazelnuts should be crushed before being added to the mixture.
What is in the icing?
The icing is made from a combination of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and Copha.
What is Copha and how is it used here?
Copha is a solid vegetable shortening used in the icing to help it set and achieve a smooth texture.
Can I substitute the hazelnuts?
Yes, the recipe is adaptable; you can incorporate different nuts or omit them entirely for an extra biscuit crunch.
How do I melt the chocolate for the icing?
Combine the chocolates and Copha in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on Medium for about 2 minutes, stirring until smooth.
Do I need to sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, the icing sugar and cocoa should be sifted for a smooth consistency.
Should the mixture be boiled?
After adding the egg, return the saucepan to the heat and stir continuously until the mixture reaches a boil.
How do I prepare the pan?
Line the slice pan with baking paper to ensure the bars are easy to remove once set.
How long should the bars chill?
The pan should be transferred to the fridge and chilled until the mixture is fully set.
Can I add dried fruit to this recipe?
Yes, you can optionally incorporate 1/4 cup of sultanas for added flavor and texture.
Is there coconut in these bars?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 cup of coconut, which adds a subtle tropical twist.
What are the best occasions for serving these bars?
They are ideal for lunchboxes, snacks, or afternoon tea.
What heat setting should be used to melt the butter?
The butter should be melted in a large saucepan over medium heat.
How should the egg be prepared?
The egg should be lightly beaten before being stirred into the butter, sugar, and cocoa mixture.
What is the texture of these bars?
The bars have a luscious and creamy texture with a crunch from the biscuits and hazelnuts.
Is it necessary to use both dark and milk chocolate for the icing?
The recipe calls for 125g of each to balance the richness, but you could adjust based on your preference.
When do I add the coconut and biscuits?
Mix in the coconut, biscuit pieces, and hazelnuts after the boiled mixture has been taken off the heat for the second time.
Do I need to press the mixture into the pan?
Yes, after spooning the mixture into the lined pan, press it down firmly to create a solid base.
How do I store the finished bars?
Because they are a no-bake slice with a chocolate topping, they should be stored in the fridge to keep them set.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, you can omit the hazelnuts for a nut-free version that has more biscuit crunch.
What is the total amount of chocolate in the icing?
The icing uses 250g of chocolate in total (125g dark and 125g milk).
Are these bars suitable for kids' lunchboxes?
Yes, they are described as a perfect snack for lunchboxes, though be mindful of school nut policies.