Creamy Dessert in a Glass

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Creamy Dessert in a Glass | Elegant Layered Treat with Crunchy Crumbs & Velvety Cream

If you’re looking for a beautiful, make-ahead dessert that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare, this Creamy Dessert in a Glass is just what you need. With layers of buttery toasted crumbs and silky custard cream, each spoonful delivers the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.

Served in individual glasses, this no-bake treat is perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or romantic evenings — elegant, rich, and irresistibly smooth.

🥣 Ingredients

For the Crumb Layer

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 8.5 tablespoons cold butter, grated (120g)

For the Cream Layer

  • ¼ cup + 1 teaspoon sugar (60g)
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1 ¼ cups milk (300ml, any fat content)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter (30g)

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
  • Grated or shaved chocolate
  • Chopped nuts or crushed cookies
  • Powdered sugar or caramel drizzle

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crumb Layer

1. Combine the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together:

  • 1½ cups flour
  • 1½ tablespoons sugar
  • A pinch of salt

2. Add the butter
Grate 8.5 tablespoons of cold butter directly into the flour mixture. Use your fingertips or a fork to rub it in until it forms coarse, sandy crumbs.

3. Toast the crumbs
Transfer the mixture to a dry non-stick skillet and toast over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the crumbs are golden brown and fragrant.

4. Cool completely
Spread the toasted crumbs on a tray or plate to cool completely before layering. This ensures they stay crisp and don’t become soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer

1. Whisk egg yolks and sugar
In a saucepan (off the heat), whisk together:

  • 2 egg yolks
  • ¼ cup + 1 teaspoon sugar
    Whisk until the mixture becomes light and slightly frothy.

2. Add milk and flour
Gradually pour in 1¼ cups milk, stirring constantly. Then sift in 2 tablespoons flour to avoid lumps. Mix until fully smooth.

3. Cook the cream
Place the saucepan on low heat and cook while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency (about 8–10 minutes).

4. Add butter
Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons butter until the cream becomes glossy and smooth.

5. Cool the cream
Let the cream cool to room temperature before assembling. This step is key for proper layering and texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

1. Start with crumbs
In small serving glasses or dessert cups, add a generous spoonful of the toasted crumbs as the base.

2. Add the cream
Spoon or pipe a layer of the cooled custard cream over the crumbs for an elegant presentation.

3. Repeat the layers
Continue layering: crumbs → cream → crumbs, ending with either cream or crumbs based on your preferred look.

4. Chill to set
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the dessert to firm up and for the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Garnish before serving
Right before serving, top each glass with your favorite garnish:

  • Fresh berries for color and freshness
  • Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for a touch of decadence
  • Chopped nuts or crushed cookies for added crunch
  • Powdered sugar or caramel drizzle for extra sweetness

🧊 Storage Tips

  • Store the assembled desserts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Cover each glass with plastic wrap to prevent the cream from drying out.
  • Avoid freezing — the cream may separate and lose its smooth texture.

🌟 Expert Tips & Variations

  • Toast crumbs slowly over low heat to avoid burning and to develop a deep, nutty flavor.
  • Use a piping bag for smooth, mess-free cream layers.
  • Add vanilla extract or lemon zest to the cream for a fragrant twist.
  • For a chocolate version, mix 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder into the flour for the crumb layer.
  • Want extra crunch? Add a few crushed cookies between the cream layers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Q: Can I use store-bought crumbs?
You can, but homemade toasted crumbs provide a much richer flavor and fresher texture.

Q: Are the egg yolks safe to eat?
Yes — the yolks are cooked during the cream preparation, so there’s no risk when properly heated.

🍓 Final Thoughts

This Creamy Dessert in a Glass is a masterpiece of textures and flavors — buttery crumbs, smooth custard, and delicate toppings that make each bite unforgettable. It’s simple enough for beginners yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something sweet and sophisticated, this no-bake layered dessert is sure to impress.

✨ Pro Tip: Serve it chilled, with a few fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect, restaurant-style finish.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment and let us know how yours turned out! What toppings did you choose?

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