Chocotorta

Argentinian dessert made with chocolate cookies and dulce de leche

Chocotorta dessert served on a plate

Chocotorta is a popular dessert from Argentina, known for its simple preparation and rich flavor. It is a no-bake cake that combines layers of chocolate cookies, dulce de leche, and cream cheese. The dessert is a staple in Argentine households and is often served at birthdays and other celebrations.

History

The chocotorta was invented in the 1980s as a marketing strategy by the Argentine company Bagley, which produces the chocolate cookies used in the dessert. The name "chocotorta" is derived from "chocolate" and "torta," the Spanish word for cake. The dessert quickly gained popularity due to its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Ingredients

The traditional chocotorta is made with the following ingredients:

• Chocolate cookies, typically Chocolinas
• Dulce de leche, a sweet milk-based caramel
• Cream cheese, often queso crema
• Milk or coffee, for soaking the cookies

Preparation

The preparation of chocotorta involves layering the ingredients in a dish. The process is as follows:

1. Mix equal parts of dulce de leche and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Dip the chocolate cookies briefly in milk or coffee to soften them.
3. Place a layer of soaked cookies at the bottom of a rectangular dish.
4. Spread a layer of the dulce de leche and cream cheese mixture over the cookies.
5. Repeat the process, alternating layers of cookies and cream mixture, until the dish is filled.
6. Finish with a layer of the cream mixture on top.
7. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Variations

While the classic chocotorta recipe is beloved, there are several variations that incorporate different flavors and ingredients:

• Adding cocoa powder or instant coffee to the cream mixture for a more intense flavor.
• Incorporating nuts or chocolate chips between the layers for added texture.
• Using flavored liqueurs, such as coffee liqueur or rum, to soak the cookies.

Cultural Significance

Chocotorta is more than just a dessert in Argentina; it is a cultural icon. It is often associated with childhood memories and family gatherings. The dessert's simplicity and the availability of its ingredients make it accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Related pages

• Dulce de leche
• Argentine cuisine
• No-bake cake