Ulster Cocoa Tiffin Recipe

Introduction to Ulster Cocoa Tiffin

The Ulster Cocoa Tiffin is a scrumptious no-bake dessert that combines the delightful flavors of chocolate, dried fruits, and rich butter. Originating from the traditional coffee houses of Northern Ireland, this dessert is reminiscent of the Scottish Tiffin Slice. Over the years, it gained popularity across the UK due to its simple preparation and irresistible taste, making it a favorite for afternoon teas and festive occasions.

Ulster Cocoa Tiffin is a wonderful treat especially known for its layering of biscuit crumbs and chocolate. The easy-to-prepare delicacy involves minimal cooking, highlighting the magic of a few quality ingredients to deliver a gastronomic experience that remains unparalleled.

Ingredients

• Cocoa Powder - 2 tablespoons
• Digestive Biscuits - 200 grams
• Unsalted Butter - 100 grams
• Golden Syrup - 2 tablespoons
• Caster Sugar - 100 grams
• Raisins - 50 grams
• Glace Cherries (optional) - 50 grams
• Dark Chocolate - 100 grams

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by crushing the Digestive Biscuits into fine crumbs using a blender or by hand in a sealed bag with a rolling pin.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the Unsalted Butter over low heat.
3. Once melted, add the Golden Syrup, Caster Sugar, and Cocoa Powder. Stir continuously until all the ingredients are well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the crushed Digestive Biscuits, Raisins, and optionally, Glace Cherries.
5. Mix these until they are thoroughly coated and integrated.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Setting the Base

Line a square baking tin with parchment paper, ensuring excess hangs over the sides for easy removal. Spread the prepared mixture evenly in the lined tin, pressing down firmly to create a dense base layer.

Step 2: Preparing the Chocolate Topping

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the Dark Chocolate until smooth. This method, known as bain-marie, ensures the chocolate melts evenly without burning.

Once melted, pour the chocolate over the base layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Cooling and Setting

Place the tin in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours or until set firmly.

How to Enjoy Ulster Cocoa Tiffin

Once set, remove the Tiffin from the tin using the overhanging parchment paper. Cut it into squares or bars of your preferred size.

This delightful Ulster Cocoa Tiffin pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, heightening its indulgence with each bite. Ideal for sharing with friends or packing as a plush snack in lunchboxes, its rich flavor profile is sure to please any crowd.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Ulster Cocoa Tiffin lies not just in its simplicity but in its ability to adapt. Feel free to experiment by adding Nuts, substituting Milk Chocolate for a sweeter topping, or incorporating your choice of dried fruits to personalize this classic recipe to your taste.

Experiment with different chocolate variations or even introduce hints of spice to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its delicious tradition. Enjoy your culinary journey as you master the Ulster Cocoa Tiffin!