Chocolate Sandesh brings together the best of Bengali sweets and everyone’s favorite chocolate flavor. This recipe makes simple paneer into smooth, fudgy balls with a wonderful nutty coating. I learned to make this version from my grandmother, who always said the secret lies in kneading the paneer mixture until it becomes silky smooth.
About the Recipe
This recipe takes the beloved Bengali sandesh and gives it a modern chocolate twist. The combination of fresh paneer with chocolate creates a rich, fudgy texture, while the almond and cashew coating adds a delightful crunch. It requires no cooking and comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe offers the perfect balance of traditional and modern flavors. The chocolate adds richness without overpowering the delicate paneer base. It is an ideal make-ahead dessert since it needs time to set. The recipe is also quite forgiving – if the mixture feels too dry, you can add a touch more melted chocolate to achieve the right consistency.
Cooking Tips
Use fresh, well-drained paneer for the best texture. Guarantee the chocolate is melted but not hot when mixing. Knead the mixture thoroughly until it becomes completely smooth; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The maida helps bind the mixture, but do not add more than specified.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Makes 8-10 pieces. Prep time is 20-25 minutes plus setting time. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature. These make lovely gifts when packed in small boxes.
Similar Recipes
- 1. Traditional Bengali Sandesh
- 2. Chocolate Kalakand
- 3. Nutty Coconut Sandesh
Nutrient Benefits
This dessert provides protein from paneer and healthy fats from nuts. The combination of dairy and nuts offers calcium, vitamin D, and essential minerals. While it is a sweet treat, the protein content helps slow down sugar absorption, making it a better choice than many other desserts.
Chocolate Sandesh
Ingredients
- 100 gms Paneer
- 2 tsp Chocolate (melted)
- 5 tsp Sugar (powdered)
- 1 tsp Almonds (powdered)
- 1 tsp Cashewnuts (powdered)
- 1 tsp Maida
Instructions
- Mix half of the paneer, sugar and maida in a bowl.
- Add the melted chocolate and give it a quick stir.
- Knead well till it becomes a soft, pliable dough.
- Combine the powdered almonds and cashewnuts with the remaining paneer, sugar and maida.
- Make small balls of the almond-cashew mixture and cover it with the chocolate mixture.
- Alternatively you can make small balls of the chocolate mixture. Spread the almond-cashew mixture in a plate and roll the chocolate ball in it.
- Keep aside to cool and set before serving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought paneer?
Yes, but fresh homemade paneer gives better results. If using store-bought, crumble it very finely before kneading.
Why does my mixture feel too dry?
This usually happens if the paneer is too dry. Add a little more melted chocolate or a few drops of milk while kneading.
How do I know when the mixture is ready?
The mixture should feel smooth and pliable, similar to soft dough. It should not stick to your hands but should be easily moldable.
image credit: flickr
