Description
A delightful no-bake dessert bar infused with the fragrant flavors of Earl Grey tea, combining crushed digestive biscuits, coconut, and nuts with a rich, buttery condensed milk mixture. Perfect for an elegant afternoon tea treat or a quick, fuss-free dessert.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup crushed almonds or walnuts
Optional Topping
- White chocolate (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Melt and Infuse: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar over low heat. Add the Earl Grey tea leaves (remove from tea bags if using loose leaf) and steep gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to infuse fully.
- Strain and Combine: Strain out the tea leaves using a fine mesh sieve, returning the infused butter and sugar mixture to the pan. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits, desiccated coconut, and crushed nuts, ensuring an even blend of textures.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the warm tea-infused butter mixture over the dry ingredient blend. Stir thoroughly until all components are well-coated and integrated into a sticky, uniform mixture.
- Shape the Slice: Firmly press the combined mixture into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan to form an even layer.
- Add Optional Topping: If desired, melt white chocolate and either drizzle or spread it evenly over the pressed base for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the slice to firm up adequately.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, cut into 12 individual bars and serve chilled, enjoying the subtle citrus and bergamot notes from the Earl Grey infusion.
Notes
- You can swap the almonds or walnuts for seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free variation.
- Add a little lemon zest to the base mixture or on top of the white chocolate for a bright, citrusy twist that accentuates the Earl Grey flavor.
- Ensure the tea is steeped gently over low heat to prevent any bitterness from developing.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
