Peppermint Crisp Tart Recipe

by

Introduction

Peppermint Crisp Tart is a beloved South African dessert known for its delightful combination of creamy caramel, fresh peppermint flavor, and crunchy biscuit layers. This no-bake dessert is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a delicious treat without much hassle. Its refreshing taste and appealing texture make it a favorite for both special occasions and casual gatherings.

Overview of the Recipe

Peppermint Crisp Tart consists of layers of tennis biscuits, a creamy caramel mixture, and grated peppermint crisp chocolate. The biscuits provide a crunchy base, the caramel and cream mixture offers a smooth and rich texture, and the peppermint chocolate adds a refreshing minty flavor. This dessert is chilled until set, making it perfect for warm weather.

History and Origin

Peppermint Crisp Tart is a traditional South African dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe originated in South Africa, where Peppermint Crisp chocolate bars, produced by Nestlé, are popular. The tart became a staple in South African households and is often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and during the holiday season. Its simplicity and the availability of the ingredients have contributed to its enduring popularity.

Ingredients

  • 1 packet of tennis biscuits
  • 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream
  • 1 can of caramel treat
  • 5.3 oz of peppermint crisp chocolate bars
  • 2 tablespoons of milk (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Biscuit Layer:
    • Lay the tennis biscuits in the bottom of a rectangular dish. If you prefer a softer texture for the biscuits, brush a bit of milk on them.
  2. Whip the Cream:
    • Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
  3. Combine Caramel and Cream:
    • Carefully fold the caramel treat into the whipped cream until well combined, ensuring the mixture is smooth and even.
  4. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Spread half of the cream and caramel mixture over the layer of biscuits in the dish.
    • Grate half of the peppermint crisp chocolate and sprinkle it on top of the cream layer.
  5. Repeat Layers:
    • Add another layer of tennis biscuits over the chocolate layer.
    • Spread the remaining cream and caramel mixture over the biscuits.
    • Grate the remaining peppermint crisp chocolate and sprinkle it on top.
  6. Chill the Tart:
    • Cover the tart and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
  7. Serve:
    • Once set, slice the tart into squares and serve it cold.

Serving

Peppermint Crisp Tart is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. Its creamy, minty, and caramel flavors are refreshing, making it an ideal dessert for warm days. Slice the tart into squares and serve on a plate. For added presentation, you can sprinkle a bit of extra grated peppermint crisp chocolate or a few mint leaves on top before serving.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Peppermint Crisp Tart pairs well with a cup of hot coffee or tea, which complements its sweet and minty flavors. For a more indulgent experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The tart is also a great dessert to accompany a light, fruity salad or a fresh fruit platter.

Variations of the Recipe

  1. Chocolate Base Variation:
    • Use a chocolate biscuit base instead of tennis biscuits for a richer flavor. Digestive biscuits or graham crackers can be substituted and mixed with a bit of melted butter to form a crust.
  2. Minty Boost:
    • Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream mixture for an extra minty kick.
  3. Layered Pudding Version:
    • Incorporate a layer of chocolate pudding between the biscuit and cream layers for added depth and richness.
  4. Fruit Twist:
    • Add thin layers of fresh strawberries or raspberries between the cream layers for a fruity twist.

Health Benefits

While Peppermint Crisp Tart is a decadent dessert, it can still offer some benefits when enjoyed in moderation:

  • Peppermint: Known for its digestive benefits and refreshing flavor, peppermint can help soothe the stomach and aid in digestion.
  • Dairy: The cream provides calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health.

Notes

  • Storage: Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The biscuits may soften further over time, but the flavors will remain delicious.
  • Substitutions: If you can’t find tennis biscuits, graham crackers or digestive biscuits make a good alternative. Similarly, any other mint-flavored chocolate can be used if peppermint crisp is unavailable.

FAQs

1. Can I make this tart ahead of time?

  • Yes, Peppermint Crisp Tart can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing it to chill overnight enhances the flavors and helps the tart set properly.

2. What can I use instead of peppermint crisp chocolate bars?

  • If peppermint crisp chocolate bars are unavailable, you can use any other mint-flavored chocolate bars. Alternatively, you can use regular chocolate and add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream mixture.

3. How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming too soft?

  • If you prefer a firmer texture, avoid brushing the biscuits with milk. Also, ensure the tart is not left out of the refrigerator for too long before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of biscuit?

  • Yes, you can substitute tennis biscuits with graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any other similar biscuit. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to cover the base of your dish.

5. Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

  • You can make a non-dairy version by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and ensuring the caramel treat is dairy-free. Use vegan biscuits and chocolate to complete the recipe.

Conclusion

Peppermint Crisp Tart is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines the richness of caramel, the creaminess of whipped cream, and the refreshing taste of peppermint chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, this South African classic is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself making this tart time and time again. Enjoy a slice of this refreshing dessert and savor the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Leave a Comment