Chocolate Salami

Sometimes called chocolate sausage, this make-ahead, no-bake dessert is perfect for the holidays. It originated in Europe, where it exists in too many variations to count. The main ingredients are cocoa powder, butter and sugar, with leftover tea biscuits emulating the specks of fat in a roll of salami. These ingredients were the most readily available during the Soviet Era and prevented housewives from wasting the precious commodities. You can replace the pistachios with other nuts, and the coffee with milk, port wine or spiced rum. The possibilities are endless with this traditional treat.

½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, divided

⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup pistachios

1 ¼ cup chopped tea cookies/biscuits

3 tablespoons brewed coffee, espresso or instant, cooled

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat the butter and 1 cup powdered sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy and combined, about 5 minutes. Add the cocoa powder and salt and beat on low for 1 to 2 minutes or until fully combined. Add the chopped cookies, pistachios, coffee and vanilla and beat on low until just combined.

Lay down a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper that is 24 inches long. Dump the cookie dough in the middle and roughly form into a 12-inch-long log shape. Begin rolling the plastic wrap or paper over the dough and keep rolling until it is completely sealed. Twist and tighten the two ends so that the dough looks like a roll of sausage. Place clips or twist ties on the ends to keep it tightly bound. Place in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours to set completely.

When time to serve, sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar on the outside of the log. Slice and serve immediately. The log can be stored in the refrigerator for a week and in the freezer for a few weeks—just make sure to let it warm up slightly before slicing if it’s been in the freezer.