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Homemade Lazy Cake sliced and served on a modern kitchen countertop, topped with chocolate drizzle, nuts, and fresh berries. A cozy and delicious no-bake dessert captured in a casual, amateur style.

Lazy Cake: The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert Recipe

Kathleen ron
Lazy Cake is a rich, chocolatey, no-bake dessert made with biscuits, cocoa, and condensed milk. Perfect for busy days, last-minute guests, or a quick indulgence, this easy recipe is a must-try!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 8 slices

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 200 g digestive biscuits about 20 biscuits
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ¼ cup chopped nuts walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts
  • ¼ cup dried fruits raisins, cranberries, apricots
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest or instant coffee powder for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Crush the Biscuits:

  • Place the biscuits in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. Leave some chunks for texture.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed biscuits, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
  • Add the Wet Ingredients:
  • Pour in the melted butter, condensed milk, and vanilla extract (if using).
  • Stir everything together until a thick, sticky dough forms.

Shape the Cake:

  • Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper.
  • Shape it into a log or press it into a rectangular mold.

Chill and Serve:

  • Wrap the log tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
  • Slice into pieces and enjoy!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Defrosting: Let frozen slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Lazy Cake Variations & Customization Ideas

  • 💡 Chocolate Hazelnut Lazy Cake:
  • Replace half the condensed milk with 1/2 cup Nutella.
  • Add 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch.
  • 💡 Peanut Butter Lazy Cake:
  • Swap 1/4 cup of butter for 1/4 cup peanut butter.
  • Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top before chilling.
  • 💡 Vegan & Gluten-Free Lazy Cake:
  • Use gluten-free biscuits and coconut condensed milk.
  • Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 💡 Healthier Option:
  • Use dark chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder for a richer taste.
  • Swap regular biscuits for whole-wheat or sugar-free biscuits to reduce carbs.

Serving Suggestions for Lazy Cake

    Pair With:

    • Greek Coffee or Tea for a Mediterranean touch.
    • A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for extra indulgence.
    • Fresh berries or whipped cream for a fancy presentation.

    Perfect For:

    • Quick family desserts
    • Party platters
    • Holiday gifting

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    • Over-crushing the biscuits: Leaves the cake too dense—keep some chunks for texture.
    • Skipping the chilling step: The cake won’t set properly—let it chill for at least 2-3 hours.
    • Using low-quality cocoa: Results in bland flavor—opt for high-quality cocoa powder for the best taste.

    FAQs About Lazy Cake

    • Can I make Lazy Cake without condensed milk?
    • Yes! Substitute with a mix of honey and cream or coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free option.
    • How long does Lazy Cake last in the fridge?
    • It stays fresh for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container.
    • Can I freeze Lazy Cake?
    • Absolutely! Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months.
    • How do I prevent Lazy Cake from being too hard?
    • Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
    • Can I make a keto-friendly version?
    • Yes! Use sugar-free biscuits and keto-friendly condensed milk to reduce carbs.
    Keyword Lazy Cake