How to Make Pavé Dessert: A Decadent Layered Delight

Pavé is a delightful, no-bake dessert that consists of layers of crispy cookies, rich cream, and a chocolatey finish. It is beloved for its creamy texture and delicious blend of flavors. This dessert is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner. Pavé is easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its layers of cream, cookies, and strawberries. Let’s dive into the details on how to make this classic Brazilian treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

Recipe Ingredients:

1/2 cup milk (to moisten the cookies)

1 can of heavy cream (for the creamy layers)
1 packet of cornflour cookies (cornstarch cookies, known for their light texture)
1 can of condensed milk (adds sweetness to the dessert)

1 envelope of unflavored gelatin powder (to give the cream stability)
1 box of washed and chopped strawberries (for freshness and color)
4 tablespoons of chocolate powder (for a rich chocolate flavor)

4 tablespoons of water (to dissolve the gelatin)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Pavé Dessert

1. Prepare the Gelatin

The first step in making Pavé is to prepare the gelatin. This will give the cream mixture its smooth, firm texture.

In a small bowl, combine the unflavored gelatin powder with 4 tablespoons of water.

Stir well and microwave the mixture for about 15 seconds, or until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
Once dissolved, set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Make the Cream Mixture

Now, it’s time to prepare the luscious cream mixture that will bring the whole dessert together.

In a blender, add the following ingredients: 1 can of condensed milk, 1 can of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of milk, and 4 tablespoons of chocolate powder.
Blend these ingredients until you have a smooth, uniform mixture.
Once the gelatin has cooled a bit, add it to the blender and blend again for a few seconds to combine everything.

3. Assemble the Layers

The magic of Pavé lies in its beautiful layers of cookies and cream. Here’s how to assemble them:

In a shallow, ovenproof dish (or any serving dish of your choice), place a layer of cornflour cookies. Before placing the cookies, lightly dip each one in milk to soften them slightly. This will allow them to blend perfectly with the cream.
Once the first layer of cookies is arranged, pour half of the cream mixture over the cookies, spreading it evenly.
Add another layer of cookies, again lightly moistened with milk, and then pour the rest of the cream mixture over this second layer.

4. Add the Strawberries

For a fresh and vibrant touch, top the dessert with chopped strawberries. You can arrange them in any pattern you like, or simply sprinkle them across the top for a rustic look.

5. Refrigerate

The final step is to refrigerate your Pavé dessert to let it set properly. Place it in the fridge and allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is firm to the touch.

Tips for Perfect Pavé

Choose the right cookies: Cornstarch cookies are ideal for this dessert because they are light and absorb the cream mixture well. If you can’t find cornflour cookies, you can use other types of tea biscuits or ladyfingers.
Use ripe strawberries: Strawberries add a burst of freshness to the dessert. Make sure they are ripe and sweet to balance the richness of the cream.
Make ahead for convenience: Pavé is best when it has had time to chill and set, so feel free to make it the night before your event or dinner. The flavors will have time to meld, and the dessert will be even better the next day.
Chocolate variation: You can use melted dark or milk chocolate instead of chocolate powder for a richer flavor. Just melt about 100 grams of chocolate and blend it with the other ingredients in place of the powder.
Decorative toppings: In addition to strawberries, you can also add shaved chocolate, cocoa powder, or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for extra decoration.

FAQs: Common Questions About Pavé

1. Can I substitute the cornflour cookies with another type of cookie?

Yes, you can! If you can’t find cornflour cookies, you can substitute them with tea biscuits, graham crackers, or even ladyfingers. The key is to choose a cookie that will absorb the cream well without getting too soggy.

2. Can I use another fruit instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! While strawberries provide a lovely balance to the richness of the dessert, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced bananas. Just ensure that the fruit you choose complements the chocolatey cream.

3. How long does Pavé last in the fridge?

Pavé can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

4. Can I make Pavé without gelatin?

Yes, you can make it without gelatin, but the cream layer will be softer and less stable. If you prefer a firmer consistency, gelatin is recommended. However, if you don’t mind a looser texture, you can leave it out.

5. Can I freeze Pavé?

While Pavé is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To do so, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

Pavé is a wonderfully simple dessert that combines creaminess, crunch, and a hint of freshness from the strawberries. With its easy preparation and delicious results, it’s no wonder that this dessert is a favorite for many. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, this Pavé recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!