CHOCOLATE TRUNK WITHOUT OVEN

 Creating a chocolate trunk without using an oven can be a delightful and creative project. Below is a more detailed recipe for a no-bake chocolate trunk that includes additional elements for a longer and more intricate preparation. This recipe includes layers and textures to make it resemble a tree trunk.

No-Bake Chocolate Trunk

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Base:

• 300g (about 10.5 ounces) of chocolate (dark or semi-sweet), chopped
• 150g (about 5.3 ounces) of butter
• 2 cups of crushed chocolate cookies (such as chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafers)
• 1 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or hazelnuts work well)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup of chocolate ganache (made by melting 1:1 ratio of chocolate and heavy cream)
• 1 cup of chocolate mousse (whipped cream folded into melted chocolate)
• Crushed cookies or nuts for added texture

For Decoration:

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Edible flowers or leaves for a natural touch (ensure they are food-safe)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Base:

   • In a large bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together. You can use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
   • Add the crushed cookies, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

2. Create the Trunk Shape:

   • Line a rectangular or oval-shaped container with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the chocolate trunk later.
   • Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared container, shaping it into a log or trunk-like form. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.

3. Build the Layers:

   • Allow the chocolate base to set slightly. Then, spread a layer of chocolate ganache followed by a layer of chocolate mousse. Add crushed cookies or nuts for added texture between the layers.

4. Final Touches:

   • Continue layering until you reach the desired height, alternating between ganache, mousse, and texture layers. Finish with a layer of the chocolate base.

5. Decorate the Trunk:

   • Once fully set, carefully lift the chocolate trunk out of the container using the parchment paper overhang.
   • Decorate the trunk with chocolate shavings or curls to mimic bark. Add edible flowers or leaves for a natural look.

6. Chill:

   • Place the chocolate trunk in the refrigerator for a few hours or until completely set.

7. Serve:

   • Once set, dust the chocolate trunk with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Slice with a sharp knife to reveal the beautiful layers inside.

This no-bake chocolate trunk is a showstopper dessert that doesn't require an oven. Feel free to get creative with the decorations and customize the layers to your liking. Enjoy your delicious and visually appealing chocolate creation!