Baking a cake without an oven may sound like a challenge, but the Bournvita no-bake chocolate cake proves that simplicity and indulgence can go hand in hand. Rich, moist, and filled with the nostalgic flavour of Bournvita, this cake is not only easy to make but also a crowd pleaser. This is because Bournvita isn’t just a nutritional supplement for milk. It brings with it a deep chocolatey flavor that adds warmth and richness to desserts. When used in baking, it imparts a familiar and comforting taste, making it an excellent twist on classic chocolate treats. Its fine powder form also blends seamlessly into desserts, enhancing both taste and texture. So, whether you’re new to cooking or simply craving a fuss-free treat, this no-bake dessert is sure to become a favourite.
There are many reasons you’re going to love this recipe. For one, there's no baking required, which means you don’t need an oven to make it. This makes it an especially appealing choice for hot days. It’s also easy and has no complicated techniques or ingredients, making it a great option for beginners to try their hand at. There’s a big chance of getting it right on the first try since there are no complications involved. This is also a great dessert to serve at parties or festivals, or simply to make and keep, since this dessert does not require any last-minute prep. It can simply be made and stored in the fridge, ready to eat once set. Also, you can add any toppings or flavors you like to this simple base. It’s easily customizable and will take on whatever taste profiles you add to it. So here’s how to go about it.
Ingredients:
For the cake base:
- 1 ½ cups crushed digestive biscuits
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp Bournvita
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for extra richness)
For the cake filling:
- 1 cup fresh cream or whipping cream
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tbsp Bournvita
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp instant coffee powder (optional, enhances the chocolate flavour)
For the ganache topping (optional but recommended):
- 100 g dark or milk chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup cream
- 1 tbsp Bournvita
Method:
- Begin by crushing the biscuits into a fine crumb. You can do this using a food processor or by placing them in a zip lock bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit crumbs, melted butter, Bournvita, and cocoa powder. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand and holds its shape when pressed.
- Line the base of a springform pan or any round cake tin with parchment paper, and press the mixture into an even layer to form the crust. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. You can use a handheld mixer or a stand mixer.
- In another bowl, combine the condensed milk, Bournvita, vanilla extract, and coffee powder if using. Mix well until the Bournvita is fully dissolved and smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into this mixture in batches, using light, circular motions to avoid deflating the cream.
- Once fully combined, pour the mixture over the chilled biscuit base and smooth out the surface with a spatula.
- Cover the cake with cling film and refrigerate for 6 hours, or ideally overnight, for best results.
- If you'd like to add a glossy, luxurious finish to your cake, prepare a simple ganache. Heat the cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolate and Bournvita, and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool slightly, then pour it over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate again for 30 minutes until set.
- Once set, remove the cake from the tin carefully.
- Slice with a warm knife (dip it in hot water and wipe clean) for clean cuts.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of Bournvita powder.
Tips:
- Use full-fat cream for a richer, creamier filling. Low-fat alternatives may not whip properly or set well. Avoid non-dairy alternatives as they won’t create peaks the same way.
- Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the condensed milk depending on your preference.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free biscuits for the base.
- You can also add textures like chopped nuts, caramel swirls, or chocolate chips to the filling for a surprise in every bite.