South African Holiday Dessert Recipe
From Our Kitchen to Yours: A Traditional South African No-Bake Dessert for the Holidays
The festive season in South Africa is a vibrant celebration filled with love, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. While the Northern Hemisphere experiences chilly winter holidays, South Africa shines in the warmth of summer sunshine.
Much like anywhere in the world, this cherished time brings together families and friends for feasting, dancing, singing, and giving. The season often includes outdoor gatherings, thanks to the delightful weather, with "braais" (South African barbeques) as a centerpiece. And no holiday feast is complete without a delectable dessert like Malva Pudding or the beloved Peppermint Crisp Fridge Tart.
This no-bake dessert is a South African favorite, thanks to its creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor. The key ingredient? Peppermint Crisp chocolate bars! While this treat is quintessentially South African, substitutions like Cadbury Mint Crisp work just as well if Peppermint Crisp is unavailable.
South African Peppermint Crisp Fridge Tart Recipe
Serves: 6-8 Guests
Ingredients:
250 ml Cool Whip or whipping cream (whip to soft peaks for a richer texture)
2 packets of coconut cookies, digestive biscuits, or graham crackers (use less for a lighter texture; Tennis Biscuits are traditional in South Africa)
375 g caramelized condensed milk (or dulce de leche)
20 ml caster/superfine sugar
3 Peppermint Crisp chocolate bars, crushed (or substitute with Cadbury Mint Crisp)
Optional: 3-4 drops of peppermint essence for a stronger mint flavor
Instructions:
Whip the Cream: Start by whipping Cool Whip or cream until soft peaks form. Mix in caramelized condensed milk, sugar, and peppermint essence (if using). Fold in ⅔ of the crushed Peppermint Crisp.
Layer the Dessert: Butter a 29x19x5 cm dish. Place a layer of cookies at the bottom. Spoon ⅓ of the caramel mixture over the cookies and spread evenly. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of the creamy filling.
Chill and Decorate: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining crushed Peppermint Crisp on top. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Why We Love This Dessert
The Peppermint Crisp Fridge Tart is perfect for hot summer holidays—it’s cool, refreshing, and doesn’t require baking. Its sweet, creamy layers combined with the minty chocolate crunch create an unforgettable flavor.
Celebrate South Africa’s Food and Culture
South African cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors influenced by the country's diverse cultures. After enjoying this delicious dessert, why not explore more of South Africa’s culinary treasures? Pair your dessert with wines from South Africa’s renowned Cape Winelands, or savor local gourmet dishes during your visit.
Plan Your South African Adventure Now!
Whether you're recreating a bit of South Africa at home or planning to experience it firsthand, the vibrant culture, welcoming people, and unforgettable flavors are sure to inspire.
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