An almost no-bake dessert, this frozen double chocolate mocha meringue terrine is a creamy, crunchy, full-of-flavor frozen dessert just perfect for summer!
As promised, and well before Christmas, I’m ready to discuss my recent relocation. I’d like to say what I really think about my experience moving to Phoenix, but my entire life savings would end up in the swear jar and I’d rather save that money for more important things like shoes and Le Creuset everything.
So I’ll just put this question out there: are all moves such an unmitigated comedy of errors? Because in my somewhat itinerant life, I’ve never lived through one this bad. That I remember anyway—maybe I’m just blocking it out?
But instead of reliving the nightmare that was the actual move, I’ll just tell you about the good things. Because that bad stuff is over but the good stuff is forever.
• I can finally photograph in natural light! And I’m loving it. (I took the pics for this post in the cave that was our apartment in SD, though.)
• Since being here, the weather has been at least in the 80s (and more likely in the 100s) every day. And I’m very cold-blooded so the heat is working out well.
• But the most important thing, and the one thing I know you’re all wondering about (because everybody loves my dog the way I love my dog right?), is that Cookie LOVES it here.
Her two favorite things are A) not having blinds on any windows so she can see everything happening outside and B) playing in the upstairs hallway. She likes to run wind sprints up and down while I’m working, then pause to rub her face all over the carpet, then repeat. For hours at a time. It’s the cutest!
Here she is on the stairs. She likes to take a mouthful of food halfway up the staircase, then eat while she watches out the window for passing dogs. She’s very focused.
And now that I’ve taken care of the self-indulgent portion of today’s post, are you ready for the recipe portion? I know you are!
I debated whether I should post this recipe because I don’t love the drab pics. But it’s too good not to share; so good in fact that I didn’t want to make it again so I could reshoot because in the process of shooting this post I ate more double chocolate mocha meringue terrine than I care to think about.
This is my version of the layered meringue terrine from Bake from Scratch, which is basically layers of homemade fudge sauce and super-indulgent ice cream filled with crunchy meringue cookies.
As soon as I read that recipe I knew I had to try it—not just because it sounded incredible but because it’s almost no-bake, and I was looking for more recipes that are oven-less. The only part you bake is the meringues, and you can do that the evening before you assemble the terrine, so you’re not doing it in the heat of the day. Around my house, that’s called winning at life.
The rest of the meringue terrine just requires whipping and melting and stirring and chilling. How easy is that? (I’m channeling my inner Ina today.)
So if you’re looking for a delicious summer dessert, look no further. This double chocolate mocha meringue terrine is the perfect way to cool off in scorching heat.
Which, in my book, is the best kind of heat of all. Happy Thursday, friends!
This frozen meringue terrine is a delicious ice cream-like desert!
- 4 large eggs whites at room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 ounces finely chopped bittersweet chocolate
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Kahlua
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream chilled
- 3 ounces white chocolate melted
- 1 tablespoon Kahlua
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups crumbled meringue cookies
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream chilled
- 1 tablespoon espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon Kahlua
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups crumbled meringue cookies
- 2 tablespoons mocha fudge recipe above
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Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
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Place the egg whites and cream of tartar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on medium speed until foamy. Increase speed to high and beat in sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until the meringue forms stiff peaks—this will take several minutes. Add the vanilla and beat to combine.
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Using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, pipe 1-inch cookies onto prepared baking pans (you can space them pretty close together). Bake until cookies are set and firm to the touch, 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. Turn oven off and let meringues stand in oven with the door closed for 1 additional hour. (Can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.)
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Place heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1 minute. Add the chocolate and let stand for 1 minute. Whisk to combine, then add the Kahlua and espresso powder. Stir until chocolate is fully melted and mixture is smooth. (Can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before using.)
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Place the heavy cream in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat until thick and just under soft peaks. (If you beat too much add a bit more cream.) Using a rubber spatula, fold in the white chocolate and Kahlua, then the crumbled meringues. Scrape into a small mixing bowl and refrigerate until ready to assemble the terrine.
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In the (clean) bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat cream until thick—until just under soft peaks. Beat in the espresso powder, then fold in the Kahlua with a rubber spatula. Fold in the crumbled meringue cookies and the 2 tablespoons of mocha fudge. Scrape into a small bowl and refrigerate until ready to assemble the terrine.
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Line a 9- by 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing several inches of excess to hang over the sides. Spread a half-inch layer of the white chocolate mixture in an even layer in the bottom of the pan. Spread a half-inch layer of the coffee layer on top of that. Dot the coffee layer with 3 tablespoons of the mocha fudge and use a kitchen knife or the back of a spoon to swirl the fudge into the coffee layer. Repeat these layers one time. (If you have leftover layer components, make an individual terrine or two in a ramekin.)
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Smooth the top of the terrine and cover with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic wrap onto the terrine’s surface. Wrap the entire pan in another layer of plastic wrap and freeze until solid, at least 8 hours.
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Remove plastic wrap and, using the excess parchment, remove the terrine from the pan. Use a hot knife to cut into layers. Serve with extra mocha fudge on the side. Leftovers can be stored, tightly wrapped, in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Adapted from Bake from Scratch
P.S. If you’re looking for fully no-bake treats to get you through the summer, check out this cheesecake, these macaroons, and these Nanaimo Bars. No oven required for any of them!
Miriam @londonkitchendiaries says
What a beautiful looking summer dessert! Moves are always stressful but I love how you look at the positives – being able to photography with natural light is fantastic, it makes taking pictures so much more fun!
Miriam xx
http://www.londonkitchendiaries.com
Kelsie says
Thank you Miriam! I can’t believe the difference natural lighting makes. I actually (almost) look forward to the photography part of blogging now! Have a great weekend!
lynne hoareau says
Ummmmm let’s not talk about moving….but on the good side, you have some amazing positives, and all those positives definitely outweigh the negatives 🙂 Cookie is the sweetest, dearest little cuties honey pie ever, and she is happy and that is what is so important. Things will only get better Kelsie. Enjoy your new place.
This terrine is to die for. I will be pinning this for sure. Everything in it, I love !!!!! Hugs to Cookie 🙂
Kelsie says
Thank you so much, dear Lynne! I gave Cookie hugs and told her she’s internet-famous but she doesn’t seem to care :). I hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Ben|Havocinthekitchen says
Hello, beautiful and delicious ice cream! Well, technically, it’s a terrin but: a) it’s frozen and nice; it melts as well b) the flavors sound fantastic c) the key word here is “double chocolate”. Everything that meets these simple criteria, is the best dessert to me. Moving to a different place is always a little stressful (but exciting). It’s going to happen to us soon too; however, in my case I’ll probably be moving from the great natural light to barely decent (At least I’m imagining this and preparing myself to the worst scenario):)
Kelsie says
OH NO! I hope it really is just a worst-case and not what actually happens! Good luck with your move, Ben. And thank you! Ice cream, terrine, who cares what we call it? It’s delicious by any name :). Have a great weekend!
Carlee says
I think all moves are bad, some are just worse than others! I am glad you survived and Cookie is liking the new digs. This terrine looks scrumptious! I love desserts with meringue, but don’t make them nearly enough.
Kelsie says
Thank you Carlee! I’m similar–every time I make meringues I wonder why I don’t do it more! They’re so wonderfully crunchy and sweet. Have a great weekend!
Julie is Hostess At Heart says
What a cute little pup! My dog does the same thing with her food. This treat looks right up our alley and I’m thinking it is in the danger zone meaning I wouldn’t be able to resist. I’ll save it for our decadent kind of treat occasion! Glad you’re enjoying Phoenix.
Kelsie says
Thank you Julie! It’s definitely one of those desserts you’ll want to hide from yourself. It’s so easy to eat and before you know if half of it’s gone. Not that such a thing has ever happened to me. . .Have a great weekend!
David | Spiced says
So I have decided that Cookie and I are soulmates. I also like to take a mouthful of food up to the landing and watch for fun things. In my case, that’s usually a neighbor or a passing bird. If I get lucky, I might see a runner go by. I get it, Cookie, I do! 🙂
I’m sorry to hear about the drama in the move, Kelsie! Over time, the bad things will turn into humorous things when you look back on them. Then you can share those stories! Moves suck. Seriously. Our move up to upstate New York from Atlanta wasn’t that bad actually…but the rented apartment and then the move into the house? Oh my God. Terrible. But that was 6 years ago now, and I can laugh at the ridiculousness of it all now. Glad you got settled, and glad Cookie is loving the new place!
Also, terrine. I haven’t made one of these in years. I have no idea why not. But I need to stop everything and make this one today. It’s perfect for hot summer days…if it ever decides to get hot here! Congrats on the natural light. I don’t have a way to do that in this house, and it kills me on a daily basis. Have a great weekend, my friend!
Kelsie says
I just told Cookie that she’s not the only one who likes to snack while watching out the window and she was like, “see mom? I’m not as crazy as you think!” She also wagged her tail, which I think means thank you. I’m hoping to look back and laugh about all of this sooner rather than later :). So good that your move all the way up to NY wasn’t terrible; the greater the distance the more chance for things to go wrong! Make yourself a terrine ASAP! Maybe the sun will take the hint and start shining in your neck of the woods! Have a great weekend, David!
Kim | The Baking ChocolaTess says
You’ve outdone yourself with this decadent layered dessert Kelsie! I just wanna dive in now!! Pinning! BTW…Your doggie is so adorable! Everything is uphill from here right? 🙂
Kelsie says
Thank you Kim! I would totally share if I had any left! And Cookie says thank you :). Everything is definitely uphill at this point! Have a great weekend, my friend!
Dawn - Girl Heart Food says
Moving sucks, but I’m totally glad you are looking at the bright side of things and everything is working out so well for you (and Cookie) – that’s AWESOME! Girl, if I had a swear jar, it would be overflowing. For reals. It is shocking how many times I swear in a run of a day. I always say, yeah, I’m going to stop, but it’s so hard. True story. Cookie is so cute – I’m sure modelling in that pic 😉 P.S. What are you saying about drab pics? They look awesome!! If the pics are making me want to stick a fork right through my screen, then you know you are doing something right 🙂
Kelsie says
Haha! Let’s both just avoid swear jars until we get a better handle on our mouths! Thank you so much Dawn! It means a lot to hear you don’t think my pics are drab :). Someday I’ll have a little confidence in my abilities. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and get to enjoy your new fire pit!
3scoopsofsugar says
Glad you are all settled in! We recently moved and had to spend 2 1/2 months in a hotel with our 3 kids. Crazy times! But it sure made me appreciate our new home a lot more. I am loving everything about this recipe and it sounds absolutely perfect for the hot weather! Have a great day!
Kelsie says
Thank you Megan! I can’t believe you spent 2 1/2 months in a hotel–with three kids, no less! When I was 9 we were remodeling and had to spend a week in a hotel; my mom still talks about how terrible that was! Have a wonderful weekend!
3scoopsofsugar says
It was quite the experience! My husband and I look at each other all of the time and just say we love this house ( the hotel was so hard with little kids that like to shout!) Haha! Happy Friday!
Kelsie says
Haha! It just sounds painful and I’m glad you’re done with that chapter :). Happy Friday Megan!
Patrick@looneyforfood says
Beatiful dessert, awesome dog! It’s funny how important are animals happiness is! I’d do anything for mine, even share a bite of your amazing terrain.
Kelsie says
Thank you Patrick! I know–our dogs are family, aren’t they? They’re just so easy to love. Have a great weekend!
Milena | craftbeering.com says
Kelsie, we are on the same page about dry heat:) After living in almost perpetual winter up in the Rockies for nine years I was so done. Love sunshine on my skin, I’d rather live somewhere hot (but not Florida) and eat this terrine under and umbrella:) Double chocolate is my kind of dessert!
Kelsie says
Now I’m thinking I should bite the bullet and make this again so I can eat it out on the patio instead of scarfing it down standing over the sink :). I definitely couldn’t live in perpetual winter; nine months of rain in Oregon was more than enough winter for a lifetime. Have a great weekend, Milena!
evolvewithmary says
Don’t they say marriage and moving are the two most stressful things you will do, I can only imagine all the issue that might arise. I love that you are keeping it positive and sharing all the wonderful things that came out of your move. Looks like you get a lot of natural light in your new space, that’s exciting. Well if Cookie loves it then everything was worth it 🙂 This dessert feels like summer and looks like heaven.
Kelsie says
Thank you Mary! Positivity and sugar are the only things that got me through the last month, haha! The natural light makes a difference too :). Hope you’re having a great week!
Kankana says
In the past seven years, I moved 5 times! It sucks and I have been through all kind of drama in the process 😀 And such treats are the best way to deal with the stress of moving.
Kelsie says
Oh my word Kankana! Five moves in seven years sounds painful. I’m not jealous at all! But yes, desserts are definitely a help when the going gets tough. Hope your week is going well!
Stacey @ The Sugar Coated Cottage says
Moves can be super stressful and emotional no matter how well you plan and Im not much of a planner, lol. Cookie is adorable and I love that she takes her food up to eat it while she watches out the window like dinner and a show, lol. I personally love the pics and Im glad you shared this recipe! This Terrine looks amazing and is perfect for summer!! Take care.
Kelsie says
Thank you Stacey! I never thought of it like that; she just likes a little show with her meal. That makes me love her even more :). Have a great weekend my friend!
Cheyanne @ No Spoon Necessary says
Oh no!! I’m so sorry to hear that your relocation was anything but smooth!!! I hate that for you! But I’ve gotta say, your attitude is inspiring!!! 🙂 When we relocated here to NC 2 years ago it wasn’t the smoothest thing on planet earth, but we got here safely, and at the end of the day that’s all that matters, right? We are getting ready to move again, and I’m kinda freaking out about it. I think moving in general is just not fun at all. The idea and process feels a little masochistic. Lol Anyways (sorry for the rambling), this dessert is everything a summer dessert should be!!! I am seriously drooling over here! I’m allergic to cocoa, so I’m trying to figure out how I can make this without it, because I NEED THIS IN MY LIFE!!!!
P.s. Your dog is SO stinkin’ cute!!!! And YES to natural light! I’m jealous! <3
Kelsie says
Awwww thank you Cheyanne! Girl, you’re not a rambler–I love to read every word you type, so never apologize :). I’m crossing my fingers your move will go smoothly. I’m thinking cocktails and something sweet and non-chocolate-y are in order for you, both during and after the moving process. But moving is totally masochistic; all the packing and unpacking and stress and WE CHOOSE TO DO IT! PS, I can’t believe you don’t shoot in natural light! It totally looks like you do!
Mary Ann @ thebeachhousekitchen says
OMGee, your dog is adorable Kelsie! This terrine is perfect for summer. Decadent and the perfect treat for company!
Kelsie says
Thank you Mary Ann! I hope you’re having some quality time with your son! Have a great weekend 🙂
marcie@flavorthemoments says
Awww, Cookie is adorable! Natural light is a huge thing as a food photographer and that’s so awesome that you have plenty of it. This terrine looks incredible and is something I need in front of me!
Kelsie says
Thank you Marcie! I’m just loving natural light. It makes the process so much less stressful! Have a great weekend!
eastofedencook says
You made it! Bravo! The Frozen Meringue Terrine is perfect for summer! Also there is chocolate, so we have hope. Life has it’s up and downs, may your summer be filled all the ice cream you desire!
Kelsie says
Thank you Deb! All the ice cream I desire sounds like the way to a perfect summer :). Have a great weekend my friend!
thatskinnychickcanbake says
Oh, my gosh, this is one divine, decadent summer dessert! My kitchen will be out of commission sometime in the near future so lots of no-bake desserts will be needed. I’ll save this one for a special treat!
Cookie is adorable! Our lab inhales every morsel of her food. She needs some manners 🙂
Kelsie says
Thank you Liz! I hope your remodel goes off without a hitch! I’m sure the results will be wonderful 🙂 Have a great weekend!
thebakingskillet says
I think moving is a general pain in the butt. But yayyyy to natural light…. OMG Cookie is the cutest and this dessert sounds wayyy to good!
Kelsie says
UGH to moving! Thank you so much Jenny! Have a great weekend 🙂
dawnyucuiscooking says
Moves are never fun. I am glad that your move is behind you. Cookie looks like a sweetie!
The chocolate terrine looks heavenly. Yum!!!
Kelsie says
Thank you Dawn! Cookie is a love; she’s sitting on my lap right now :). Hope you have a great weekend!
Love In My Oven says
Moving is SUCH a PITA. You’re not alone! So glad you’re finally settled in, and nothing beats being able to shoot in natural lighting!! Cake looks simply stunning. Also – Cookie is as adorable as his name. 🙂 Cheers to the weekend!
Kelsie says
Thank you so much Katherine! I’m so glad the move is behind me :). Happy Friday!
Kelly @ Kelly Lynn's Sweets and Treats says
Oooooh looks divine!! I think your pictures look lovely 🙂 I’m glad you are settled in at your new place! Looks like Cookie is a happy dog too! Happy weekend my friend!! ?
Kelsie says
Thank you Kelly! She is the happiest little creature :). Happy weekend to you too!
rituahuja1 says
Glad to know that you are settled in your new home. This dessert looks awesome. The flavors and combination is great. I will try out this recipe soon. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful recipe.
Kelsie says
Thank you! If you try it, you’ll have to let me know what you think! Have a great weekend 🙂
Jeff the Chef says
I can’t believe that you’ve strung together so many of my favorite words … and then you’ve doubled it! I love the muted colors in your delicious-looking terrine, and I’m sure it’s delectable.
Kelsie says
Haha! Thank you Jeff! Delectable is a pretty perfect word for it :). Have a great weekend!
Kelly says
Moving is such a pain but I’m glad to hear you have lots of natural light. And cookie is the cutest! This terrine looks incredible too and just perfect for summer!
Kelsie says
Moving is for real the WORST! Thank you so much, and Cookie thanks you too :). Have a great weekend Kelly!
grace says
glad you’re getting settled. 🙂 cute pooch, and delicious dessert! i haven’t made a terrine before but this one looks outstanding!
Kelsie says
Thank you so much Grace! Have a wonderful weekend, my friend!
Cara Cifelli says
You moved to Phoenix? We have to meet up girl 🙂 I spend half my time in Phoenix. Sorry that it was a rough move but the good things sounds awesome. The heat- i am glad you are liking it so far- it lasts for like 6 months! your dog is the cutest thing ever. Also this dessert so so rich and delicious
Kelsie says
I did! I’m currently feeling like one of my baked goods every time I walk outside :). We definitely should meet up! Just let me know next time you’re in town! And thank you so much. Hope you have a great weekend!
Amy (Savory Moments) says
This dessert looks amazingly decadent and so delicious! Perfect for summer. And, your dog is super cute!
Kelsie says
Thank you Amy! It is definitely decadent :). Happy Friday my friend!
Allie R Taylor says
OK – so I love Cookie – she is absolutely capital A Adorable. Sounds like she can really entertain herself too. We hope to get a dog after our move – I’m so glad things are working out for you now, AFTER your move. Yeah, we’ve had some pretty crazy times with this buying and selling thing, but hopefully we’ll get where we need to be too by the end of this month. So wahoo! This dessert look absolutely dreamy – double chocolate mocha!!!! I’M ALL IN!!! Have a super weekend Kelsie!
Kelsie says
Thank you Allie! You have to get a dog once you’ve moved! I can’t even imagine my life without little Cookers underfoot constantly :). I really hope your move happens this month; I know it’s been all kinds of trouble for you. You have a great weekend too!
cakespy says
I need this almost-no-bake dessert (ha!) in my life. Beautiful!
Kelsie says
Thank you so much Jessie!
Ashika - Gardening Foodie says
Looks amazing Kelsie,the most difficult part will be waiting 8 hours for it to set…but totally worth it.
Cookie is an absolutely adorable little munchkin…I am sure that she gets a lot of hugs? Have a fantastic weekend.
Kelsie says
Haha! I hug her almost constantly! A trainer we worked with told me I need to stop so she learns to be more independent but I can’t help myself. Thank you so much, Ashika! I hope your weekend is going well 🙂
Smiling Notes says
You’re so amazingly talented! This looks so delicious and omg Cookie is totally adorbs 😀
Kelsie says
Thank you so much! Hope you’re having a great weekend!
blahnikbaker says
Eeeeekkkk! So happy the move is over. I am not a fan of moves and everything is always just terrible. This summer dessert is on the other hand amazing!!
Kelsie says
Thank you so much! Isn’t moving the worst? Have a great week!
Kate says
THIS is my kind of dessert.
Kelsie says
Thank you Kate!
Agness of Run Agness Run says
Delicious and finger-licking dessert! I will have to give it a try!
Kelsie says
Thank you Agness!
thefrizzybaker says
Reading the title of this post got me more and more excited with every word ha! Double (always best when it comes to dessert), chocolate (always best in general), mocha (hello best friend), meringue (the fairies of the baking world) and terrine (the classiest of desserts). Looks and sounds incredible!
Kelsie says
Haha! I agree with EVERY.SINGLE.THING you just said :). Thank you and happy Sunday!
Teesh Osita says
Cookie is so adorable! I am happy she can now have meals while dog watching! 🙂
Kelsie says
Thank you Teesh! And Cookie thanks you too 🙂