If you’ve been craving a dessert that’s silky, refreshing, and super easy to make without an oven, then this Creamy No-Bake Delight is going to become your new favorite. It’s one of those desserts that looks fancy, tastes indulgent, yet comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients. The best part? It requires zero baking skills and just a little patience while it chills in the fridge.
This dessert combines a creamy base with layers of softened biscuits, finished off with a luscious drizzle of dulce de leche on top. The result? A dessert that feels both light and decadent at the same time. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or when you just want a quick sweet bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into the steps, let’s lay out everything:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk (for mixing, plus extra for dipping biscuits)
- 2–3 tablespoons lemon drink powder (like Tang, or you can use fresh lemon juice for natural flavor)
- 200g biscuits (like Maria cookies, graham crackers, or digestive biscuits)
- ½ cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, milk, and lemon drink powder until smooth. The lemon adds a subtle tanginess that balances out the sweetness, while the cream gives it a rich, luscious texture. You should have a thick but pourable cream mixture.
2. Create the First Layer
Spoon a thin layer of the cream mixture onto the bottom of your serving dish. Smooth it out evenly so the biscuits can sit on top without sliding around. This base layer helps keep the dessert neat and structured.
3. Soak & Layer the Biscuits
Dip each biscuit briefly in milk—just enough to soften them but not make them soggy. Lay them side by side over the cream base to form your first biscuit layer. This step gives the dessert a cake-like texture without actual baking.
4. Add Another Creamy Layer
Spread more of the cream mixture on top of the biscuit layer, covering it completely. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon or spatula. You’ll notice how the layers start to build up, creating a pretty stacked effect once sliced.
5. Decorate with Dulce de Leche
Warm the dulce de leche slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) so it becomes more pourable. Then drizzle it on top of the dessert in lines, swirls, or even zig-zag patterns. If you have a piping bag, you can make it look extra fancy.
6. Chill Until Set
Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the cream firm up and the biscuits soften into a cake-like texture. If you have the patience, overnight chilling gives the best results.
Tips for the Best Creamy No-Bake Delight
- Don’t oversoak biscuits – A quick dip in milk is enough; too much will make them mushy.
- Chill longer for firmer slices – One hour is the minimum, but 4–6 hours or overnight will give the best consistency.
- Try homemade dulce de leche – If you boil a can of sweetened condensed milk (carefully), you’ll have a caramel-like dulce de leche that’s out of this world.
- Add texture – A sprinkle of chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed biscuits on top adds crunch.
- Use clear glass dish – It shows off the gorgeous creamy layers.
Variations to Try
- Fruit Layer: Add sliced strawberries, peaches, or bananas between the cream layers for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Replace dulce de leche with melted chocolate drizzle or chocolate shavings.
- Coffee Kick: Dip the biscuits in coffee instead of milk for a tiramisu-style flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the cream base for added crunch.
- Citrus Freshness: Replace lemon drink powder with fresh lime or orange zest for a refreshing change.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is versatile and can be served in many ways:
- As a whole cake in a large dish for family-style serving.
- In individual cups for elegant single servings.
- With toppings like whipped cream, berries, or extra caramel drizzle.
- Paired with coffee or tea for a light but satisfying end to a meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it’s better when made ahead, as the biscuits have time to soften.
2. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3–4 days if stored covered.
3. Can I freeze it?
Not recommended. The cream base doesn’t thaw well—it may separate.
4. What kind of biscuits should I use?
Maria cookies, digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or ladyfingers all work well.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of cream?
Yes, whipped topping (like Cool Whip) works for a lighter version, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Conclusion
The Creamy No-Bake Delight is everything a dessert should be—easy to prepare, indulgent, and satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients and no oven required, you can whip it up in minutes and let the fridge do the rest of the work. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to impress.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again because it’s simple, versatile, and utterly delicious. One spoonful, and you’ll understand why it truly lives up to its name—a delight in every bite.