Introduction
Few desserts can match the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and fruity freshness like the Creamy Fruit and Biscuit Dessert. This no-bake layered dessert is simple to make, requires just a handful of ingredients, and looks as elegant as it tastes. Whether you’re preparing a sweet treat for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something refreshing, this dessert is always a winner.
The combination of smooth whipped cream, sweet condensed milk, crunchy biscuits, and fresh fruits makes every spoonful a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The best part? You don’t need an oven or any fancy equipment to make it—just a mixing bowl, a dish, and your ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream (or pre-whipped cream)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (400g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mixed fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mangoes, bananas, or fruits of your choice)
- 200g biscuits or graham crackers
- Optional: 1/2 cup milk (for dipping the biscuits, making them softer)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Mixture
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
This mixture forms the creamy base of your dessert, which balances the fruity freshness and biscuit crunch.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruits
- Wash and chop your chosen fruits into bite-sized pieces.
- If using fruits like bananas, add them just before layering to avoid browning.
- You can also pat fruits dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the layers.
Step 3: Layer the Dessert
- In a rectangular or oval serving dish, spread a thin layer of cream mixture on the bottom.
- Add a layer of biscuits. If you want them softer, dip each biscuit quickly into milk before placing it.
- Spread another layer of cream mixture over the biscuits.
- Add a layer of fruits.
- Repeat the process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a smooth layer of cream on top.
Step 4: Chill
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows the biscuits to soften and the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Before serving, garnish with extra fruit slices, a sprinkle of crushed biscuits, or even a drizzle of fruit syrup.
- Scoop and serve chilled for a refreshing and indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Choose fresh fruits: Seasonal fruits taste best and add natural sweetness.
- Balance sweetness: Since condensed milk is sweet, use tart fruits like berries or kiwi for contrast.
- Texture variation: Use a mix of soft fruits (bananas, mangoes) and firmer ones (apples, grapes) for more bite.
- Avoid sogginess: If you prefer crunch, skip dipping biscuits in milk and just layer them directly.
- Presentation: Use a glass trifle dish to showcase the colorful layers—it makes the dessert look extra appealing.
Variations of Creamy Fruit and Biscuit Dessert
- Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup between layers or use chocolate biscuits.
- Tropical Delight: Use mango, pineapple, and coconut shavings for a tropical flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds, pistachios, or walnuts between layers.
- Healthier Option: Replace condensed milk with Greek yogurt and honey for a lighter version.
- Coffee Lovers’ Version: Dip biscuits in coffee instead of milk for a tiramisu-inspired twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for family dinners, birthdays, or summer parties.
- Serve in mini dessert cups for individual portions—ideal for potlucks.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for contrast against the chilled creaminess.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days. The biscuits will continue softening over time.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as cream and fruit may lose their texture when thawed.
FAQs About Creamy Fruit and Biscuit Dessert
1. Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, chilling overnight improves the flavor as the layers set perfectly.
2. Can I use canned fruits instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
3. Can I replace biscuits with cake?
Definitely. Sponge cake or pound cake works beautifully in place of biscuits.
4. Is it possible to make it less sweet?
Yes—reduce the amount of condensed milk and balance with unsweetened whipped cream.
5. Which biscuits work best?
Digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or tea biscuits work best, but you can also use ladyfingers.
6. Can I add gelatin to make it firmer?
Yes, a small amount of dissolved gelatin can be added to the cream mixture if you want a more solid texture.
Conclusion
The Creamy Fruit and Biscuit Dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture, fruity freshness, and biscuit crunch, it’s both indulgent and refreshing. Best of all, it’s quick to make, requires no baking, and can be easily customized with different fruits, flavors, and toppings.
Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion, a family gathering, or just a casual treat at home, this dessert is guaranteed to win hearts. Simple, delicious, and versatile—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again.