Chocolate Sandesh: Bengali Cottage Cheese Dessert with Rich Milk Chocolate

Bengali Special Chocolate Sandesh Recipe (Chocolate Infused Cottage Cheese Dessert)

Chocolate Sandesh is a delightful fusion of traditional Bengali sweet-making and rich, creamy chocolate. This decadent dessert combines the softness of homemade cottage cheese, known as chenna, with the luxurious texture of milk chocolate, creating an indulgent treat perfect for any festive occasion. Sandesh is beloved in Bengal, but this chocolate-infused version elevates the dessert to a whole new level, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will captivate your taste buds.

Making the chenna (homemade cottage cheese) is a critical step, and it must be made with great care to ensure that the mixture is soft and smooth. A rubbery texture will result in a less desirable outcome for the sandesh. When properly made, this dessert has a rich, full-bodied texture that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients for Bengali Special Chocolate Sandesh

Preparation Time

Instructions

1. Prepare Chenna: Begin by preparing the chenna (homemade cottage cheese) by following the recipe for Chenna Recipe (Homemade Cottage Cheese | A High Protein Snack). This will ensure the paneer is ready for the chocolate sandesh.

2. Melt the Chocolate: In a saucepan, add the salted butter and chopped milk chocolate. Place the pan over medium heat and melt the chocolate, stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly. Once the chocolate has completely melted, turn off the heat and allow it to cool completely.

3. Combine Chocolate and Chenna: After the chocolate has cooled, transfer it to a stand mixer along with the chenna. Beat the two ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. The texture should be creamy and cohesive, ensuring the sandesh has a soft and luxurious feel.

4. Cook the Mixture: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and add the chocolate-chenna mixture along with the finely chopped pistachios. Stir continuously as the mixture begins to thicken. Continue cooking until the mixture comes together and forms a ball of dough, leaving the sides of the pan. At this point, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely.

5. Shape the Sandesh: Once the mixture has cooled, it is time to shape the sandesh. Grease a surface with butter, then transfer the cooled mixture onto the surface. Use a rolling pin to flatten the mixture evenly, creating a smooth and uniform surface. Shape it into a square and cut it into equal-sized pieces.

6. Add the Finishing Touch: Press the sliced dates into the top of each piece of chocolate sandesh, creating a beautiful and sweet garnish. Refrigerate the sandesh in an airtight box for a couple of hours to allow it to set.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Bengali Special Chocolate Sandesh as a delicious sweet treat for any festive occasion such as Diwali or Navratri, or even as a special dessert for family gatherings. The rich chocolate flavor, combined with the smoothness of homemade chenna, makes this dessert a true showstopper.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Sandesh is ideal for special occasions, holidays, or as a part of a sweet spread for festivals. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a cup of warm chai or a cold glass of milk to balance its richness.

Conclusion

This Bengali Special Chocolate Sandesh brings together the best of both worlds: traditional Bengali flavors and a rich chocolate twist. The velvety texture of chenna combined with the indulgent flavor of milk chocolate makes this dessert irresistible. Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat for your loved ones, this chocolate-infused dessert will surely become a favorite. Make sure to serve it chilled and watch your guests fall in love with this unique, melt-in-the-mouth treat!