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How to make lazy cake?
What is Lazy Cake and Why is it So Popular?
Lazy cake – a traditional Lithuanian chocolate dessert that got its name because of its simplicity: anyone can make it. You don’t need an oven or special baking skills. The dessert is made from butter, sugar, cocoa, cookies, and nuts. The result – soft, chocolatey, with a crunchy texture of pieces.
Lazy cake became especially popular during the Soviet era when it was made in every Lithuanian home. Today it’s still loved at celebrations, parties, and in everyday life because of its simplicity and excellent taste.
Ingredients for Classic Lazy Cake
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 200 g | Best to choose quality, as margarine is better avoided |
| Sugar | 150–200 g | Can be adjusted to taste |
| Cocoa powder | 3–4 tablespoons | Use natural cocoa powder |
| Milk | 3–4 tablespoons | Can be replaced with cream or plant-based milk |
| Cookies | 300–400 g | “Gaidelis” type cookies work best |
| Nuts | 100–150 g | Hazelnuts, walnuts, or peanuts |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Optional, adds aroma |
Lazy Cake: Step by Step
1. Ingredient Preparation
Crumble the cookies into small pieces – not too fine, so the lazy cake will be crunchy. Chop or cut the nuts with a knife.
2. Chocolate Mixture Preparation
In a medium-sized pot over low heat, melt the butter. Mix in the sugar, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Pour in the milk and add the cocoa. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Don’t add too much milk so the mixture won’t be too liquid.
3. Mixing in Cookies and Nuts
Add the cookies and nuts into the chocolate mixture. If using vanilla extract, add it now. Mix well so all pieces are coated with chocolate.
4. Shaping and Cooling
Place the mixture in a form lined with parchment paper or food wrap. Shape into a rectangle or square 2–3 cm thick. Press with your hands so it’s compact. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Cutting and Serving
Cut the cooled lazy cake into small squares or rectangles. You can moisten the knife with hot water to make cutting easier.
Lazy Cake Variations
White Lazy Cake
Use 200 g of white chocolate instead of cocoa. Mix in dried cranberries or coconut flakes.
Lazy Cake with Condensed Milk
Melt the butter, mix in cocoa and half a can of condensed milk. The result – sweeter and creamier texture lazy cake.
Vegan Lazy Cake
Replace butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil, milk – with plant-based milk. Use vegan cookies.
Lazy Cake with Dried Fruits
You can add dried apricots, plums, cherries, or dates – will give the dessert additional sweetness and a bit of tartness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn’t the lazy cake hold its shape?
The most common reason – too much milk, too short refrigeration time, or too few cookies. Solution – add more cookies and leave longer in the refrigerator.
Can lazy cake be frozen?
Yes. Cut into pieces, place in an airtight container, and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
How long does lazy cake last?
In the refrigerator – up to 1–2 weeks, kept in a covered container. At room temperature, lazy cake lasts only a few hours.
Nutritional Value
In one 50 g piece:
- Calories: ~250–300 kcal
- Fat: ~15–18 g
- Carbohydrates: ~25–30 g
- Protein: ~3–4 g
Conclusions
Lazy cake – a perfect dessert for those who love simplicity and taste. This recipe doesn’t require much time, baking skills, and always delights guests. Make lazy cake at home and enjoy an authentic Lithuanian treat together with family and friends!
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