I’ve flicked through many cookbooks of all types of cuisines, scrolled through page after page of desserts on Instagram, and watched countless cooking shows! But I hadn’t heard of today’s recipe until earlier this week! A follower of ours mentioned that they used to have this crumbly and chocolatey treat at school. As I had never heard of it, I immediately jumped online to see what I was missing out on!
What is Chocolate Concrete?
Chocolate Concrete resembles a crumble mixture with added cocoa powder to create the chocolate flavour. You then pour in melted margarine (traditionally it would have been butter) and mix that together. I was considering adding some extra ingredients, like coffee or jam, just to jazz it up a bit. However, in the end, I went with a drop of vanilla extract. Normally I like to add flavour enhancers. But, when it comes to recipes that are all about nostalgia, I find it best to stick to the original. I always find it disappointing when you have a memory of something you once ate but when you recreate it, it’s not quite right. So that’s why this Chocolate Concrete is, hopefully, just as people remember it and with no added frills.
How would it be served?
I’m still scratching my head as to why my school would deny us all the simple and chocolatey goodness! From what I gather, Chocolate Concrete should be served still warm in the playground with a sprinkle of sugar on top, for an extra crunch. Perhaps that’s the answer as to why I never had it at school – the teachers probably protested against having to teach hyperactive children after all that sweetness! We’ve also been told that Chocolate Concrete would often be served with a green peppermint custard. Or, as some people have said online, with a pink custard. I’m not sure what to make of either of these, but then who am I to question people’s memories?!
What does it taste like?
This treat is crunchy on top and hides a soft base. And I really can’t emphasise enough – this recipe is super simple to make and really quick to prepare. In fact, it’ll take just a bit longer to bake in the oven than it does to mix all the ingredients. So, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick treat than can transport you back to the hazy days of the playground!
If you’ve been inspired by today’s throwback, then head over to our website or Instagram and take a look at our other school meal-themed recipes that include a delicious Kids’ Creamy and Herby Pie!
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Right kids, let’s get crumbling!
Kids' Vegan Chocolate Concrete
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Spoon (optional)
- Knife
- 9 x 9" Baking Tin
- oven
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Concrete
- 125 g Margarine melted, plus extra for greasing
- 250 g Plain Flour
- 250 g Granulated Sugar
- 65 g Cocoa Powder
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)
To Serve
- Sprinkling of Caster Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
- Lightly grease a 9”x9” baking tin with a dab of margarine and set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the plain flour, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Using clean hands or a spoon, stir the dry ingredients together.
- Pour in the melted margarine and the vanilla extract, if using.
- Mix as you would a crumble, by rubbing the mixture together with your fingertips. To help aerate the crumble, use your hands to dig into the mixture and lift it up, then let it fall through your fingers. Do this a few times to help create the right texture.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking tin.
- Using the back of a spoon or clean hands, pat down the mixture firmly to compress it into the baking tin. We want our chocolate concrete to be as compact as possible - like concrete!
- Bake the chocolate concrete in the oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle some caster sugar on top. Cut the concrete into slices.
- Allow to cool for about 5 mins then serve while still warm!