Easy Chocolate Concrete Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Chocolate concrete, a school dinner staple, brings back nostalgic memories for many. This simple recipe lets you recreate that classic treat at home.

What is Chocolate Concrete?

Chocolate concrete is a dense, chocolatey slab, often served with custard. Its name comes from its firm texture, similar to concrete, but don't worry, it tastes much better!

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 225g Plain Flour
  • 50g Cocoa Powder
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 175g Caster Sugar
  • 175g Cold Butter, cubed
  • Pinch of Salt
  • Optional: Chocolate chips for extra indulgence

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Get Started: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and line a square baking tin (approximately 20cm x 20cm).
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Add Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. The mixture should be evenly combined with no large lumps of butter remaining.
  4. Press into Tin: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking tin. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a smooth, compact surface. If you're adding chocolate chips, press them gently into the top.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The concrete should be firm to the touch and slightly pulling away from the edges of the tin.
  6. Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the tin before cutting it into squares or rectangles. This allows it to firm up properly.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Concrete

  • Cold Butter is Key: Using cold butter ensures the correct crumbly texture.
  • Don't Overbake: Overbaking will make the concrete dry and hard. Aim for a slightly soft center.
  • Serve with Custard: For the authentic school dinner experience, serve warm with a generous helping of custard.
  • Add Variations: Experiment with different flavors by adding nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate concrete is delicious on its own, but it's even better with:

  • Warm Custard
  • Ice Cream
  • A dusting of icing sugar

Storage Instructions

Store leftover chocolate concrete in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.

Recreate a taste of your childhood with this easy chocolate concrete recipe! Enjoy this simple yet satisfying treat. [Try this recipe and share your creations online! #chocolateconcrete #baking #recipe]