Creamy Treat Dessert Layers (Printable)

Layers of smooth vanilla custard, whipped cream, and fresh berries combine for a luscious treat.

# What You Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 1 cup heavy cream
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Sweeteners & Flavorings

05 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Thickening Agents

07 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch

→ Garnishes

08 - 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
09 - 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)

# How-To:

01 - In a medium saucepan, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
02 - Place saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and just begins to bubble, about 6 to 8 minutes.
03 - Remove custard from heat and stir in unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract until fully combined.
04 - Allow custard to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least one hour until chilled.
05 - Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks in a chilled bowl using an electric mixer or whisk.
06 - Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the chilled custard to lighten the mixture.
07 - Layer the custard mixture into serving glasses, alternating with spoonfuls of remaining whipped cream and fresh berries.
08 - Top with additional fresh berries and chopped nuts if desired. Serve chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than you'd expect for something this decadent, with most of the time spent just waiting in the fridge.
  • The layering trick makes it feel restaurant-worthy the moment you set it down, even though you're working in your own kitchen.
  • Fresh berries cut through the richness perfectly, so each spoonful feels balanced and bright.
02 -
  • Cornstarch must be whisked smooth with cold liquid first, or it will seize up and create lumps the heat won't dissolve.
  • The custard thickens more as it cools, so if it seems a touch loose when you take it off the heat, it's exactly right, trust that.
  • Whipping cream that isn't cold enough will take forever and may never reach proper peaks, so chill your bowl and beaters beforehand.
03 -
  • Use the highest quality vanilla you can find, because in a dessert this simple and understated, every ingredient speaks loudly.
  • If your custard breaks or separates, strain it through fine mesh and fold in a spoonful of whipped cream to rescue it, then chill again before continuing.

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