Indulgent South African Desserts: Creative Recipes with Arnott’s Tim Tam

South African desserts are known for their rich flavours, comforting textures, and indulgent ingredients. From malva pudding to milk tart, these treats capture the essence of home-style baking. But what happens when you add a modern twist with Arnott’s Tim Tam? These iconic chocolate-covered biscuits offer the perfect combination of crunch and creaminess, making them an exciting addition to South African desserts.

Whether you're looking for a new way to enjoy a classic or a unique fusion dessert, here are some creative South African-inspired recipes featuring Tim Tams.

1. Tim Tam Malva Pudding

Malva pudding is a beloved South African dessert known for its soft, spongy texture and sweet, caramel-like sauce. Adding Tim Tam biscuits to the mix enhances the richness and gives it a chocolatey upgrade.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup butter
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 5 Arnott’s Tim Tam biscuits, crushed

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2. Cream the sugar, egg, and apricot jam together until light and fluffy.
3. In a saucepan, heat the milk and butter until the butter melts, then remove from heat and add the bicarbonate of soda.
4. Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, then stir in the vinegar and crushed Tim Tam biscuits.
5. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes.
6. Serve warm with custard, cream, or ice cream.

2. Tim Tam Peppermint Crisp Tart

This South African favourite is made with layers of creamy caramel, whipped cream, and crunchy peppermint crisp chocolate. By adding Tim Tam biscuits to the base, you get an extra chocolatey, crunchy texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet Arnott’s Tim Tam biscuits (chopped)
• 1 can caramel treat (dulce de leche)
• 250ml fresh cream (whipped)
• 1 bar peppermint crisp chocolate (grated)

Method:

1. In a serving dish, create a layer of chopped Tim Tam biscuits.
2. Spread the caramel treat over the biscuits.
3. Fold the grated peppermint crisp into the whipped cream and spread over the caramel layer.
4. Sprinkle extra peppermint crisp on top and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

3. Tim Tam Milk Tart Cheesecake

A fusion of the classic South African milk tart and a rich, no-bake cheesecake, this dessert is perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet Arnott’s Tim Tam biscuits (crushed)
• 80g melted butter
• 500g cream cheese
• 1 cup icing sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 250ml whipped cream

Method:

1. Mix crushed Tim Tam biscuits with melted butter and press into a cheesecake tin as the base.
2. Beat cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Gently fold in the whipped cream.
4. Pour the mixture over the biscuit base and refrigerate for 4 hours.
5. Dust with cinnamon before serving.

Why South Africans Love Arnott’s Tim Tam in Desserts

Tim Tam biscuits add a decadent, chocolatey crunch to traditional South African treats, making them even more indulgent. Their versatility allows them to be used in various ways—from bases and toppings to creamy fillings. Whether you're elevating a classic South African dessert or experimenting with new creations, Tim Tam biscuits bring an extra layer of indulgence.

Next time you’re in the mood for a South African dessert, try adding Tim Tam biscuits for a deliciously modern twist!