Lazy Cake Recipe

Friends. If you’re European you’ve probably had these. I once thought they were specific to Romanians but I was wrong but then realized that other European and middle eastern cultures have a similar dessert. In the UK it’s actually called a chocolate biscuit cake as well.

So for those who have no idea what I’m talking about, this is a super easy chocolate ‘cake’ recipe. It’s traditionally made in a “salami” shape which I think is slightly unappetizing but nonetheless it is still very rich and delicious.

I made it much more appetizing by making it in a brownie pan. I also topped it with a dark chocolate ganache and some crushed animal crackers for extra visual appeal. 

What is lazy cake? 

Basically, it’s like a no-bake brownie made with crushed animal crackers. Butter, sugar, cocoa powder and mix get boiled on the stove for 10 minutes and then the crushed animal crackers get folded in. 

The animal crackers give it the structure since we’re not using any flour or anything like that. However, you can also add whatever fill-ins your little heart desires. I like to keep it simple but some people may enjoy adding nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, etc. 

My mom adds rum flavor but you can substitute this bourbon, amaretto or kahlua. Vanilla extract and almond extract are also a great substitute. 

I also have this truffle version that I shared a while ago. & if you’re looking for an actual chocolate cake recipe, I have this olive oil chocolate cake that is really easy.

If you’re loving the dark rich chocolate flavor, my chocolate ganache cake is a true show-stopper.

Ingredients for lazy cake

• Butter: the butter gets melted so it doesn’t matter if it’s cold but it is quicker if the butter is already soft. I like salted butter but unsalted works too, just add an extra ¼ tsp of salt.
• Sugar: I use granulated sugar in this recipe but brown sugar should work fine as well.
• Cocoa Powder: the better quality your cocoa powder is, the better your cake will taste! My favorite is King Arthur Dutch Process Cocoa Powder or Rodelle Dutch Process Cocoa Powder. Don’t use sweetened cocoa powder though!
• Salt: salt brings out the flavor in all baked goods.
• Milk: I use whole milk but any percentage of milk or dairy free milk works fine.
• Animal crackers: I use the cheap kind because I’ve found that they all kind of taste the same when they’re smothered with chocolate! Graham crackers and vanilla wafers should work well too. 
• Chocolate: you can use milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate or dark chocolate. I prefer dark chocolate for this recipe because I like it more rich than sweet..
• Heavy Cream: you’ll need heavy cream to make the ganache

How to make this lazy cake recipe

1. You begin by heating the butter in a saucepan until it’s melted. 
2. Then add in the sugar and cocoa powder, stirring until they’re well combined. 
3. Slowly add the milk while whisking and then bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Continue to whisk for about 10 minutes, until it’s just slightly thickened.
5. Remove from the heat, add in vanilla or other flavors and fold in the crushed animal crackers.
6. Spread into the prepared pan and refrigerate or freeze until it’s set. 
7. Heat the cream for the ganache and pour it over the chocolate chips. 
8. Stir until the ganache is smooth and spread on top of lazy cake. 
9. Top with animal cracker crumbs and/or pinch of sea salt flakes. 

Sweetened condensed milk version

I tried making these eveeennnn lazier by using sweetened condensed milk. It works well but sweetened condensed milk isn’t my favorite flavor and it gives a slightly sticker texture. If you want that version, it’s SO EASY.

Just combine the ingredients in a bowl and fold in the crushed crackers. No need to cook the mixture!

• 1 cup (227g) melted butter
• 1 cup (80g) cocoa powder
• 1 can (14oz) sweetened condensed milk 

Frequently asked questions

What pan to bake this in?

I used a square 8 inch baking pan

You can also use a:

• Round 8 inch baking pan
• Square 9 inch baking pan
• Round 9 inch baking pan
• Loaf pan

Can I make this dairy free?

Yup! Just use a vegan butter and dairy free milk and dairy free chocolate chips. 

Can I make this gluten free?

Yup! Just use a gluten-free animal cracker or any gluten-free cracker you like. 

Can I change up the flavor?

Omg yes! I was thinking of adding ½ cup of peanut butter or cookie butter to the chocolate mixture and the ganache next time!

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, these stay amazing for days and they’re especially great because they do better at warmer temperatures than other cakes with frostings. 

How to serve and store lazy cake

This lazy cake needs a few hours to fully set before it’ll slice smoothly. Once it’s been chilled for a few hours, feel free to slice it and serve immediately. It can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature. 

Lazy cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. Refrigerate it for 7-10 days or freeze it for 2-3 months. 

If you make this chocolate lazy cake, let me know what you guys think! Also make sure to tag me on instagram @baranbakery so I can see what you’re making. As always, have a blessed day and happy baking!

Love, B