How to Make Easy 4-Ingredient Desserts: A Simple and Delicious Treat

Sometimes, the best desserts are the simplest ones. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, yet tastes like it took hours in the kitchen, then this 4-ingredient recipe is perfect for you. With just egg yolks, coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and Parmesan cheese, this dessert comes together in no time, leaving you with a creamy, sweet, and slightly savory treat that will impress your friends and family.

Whether you need a quick dessert for a dinner party, a potluck, or just something sweet to satisfy your cravings, this recipe is a go-to option. In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process of making this delightful 4-ingredient dessert, with tips for getting the perfect result every time. We’ll also cover some frequently asked questions to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully.

Ingredients for the Easy 4-Ingredient Dessert

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need four ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.

What You’ll Need:

2 egg yolks: These provide richness and help bind the dessert together. Make sure to use fresh eggs for the best results.
½ cup of shredded dried coconut: The coconut adds texture and a subtle sweetness to the dessert. You can use sweetened or unsweetened coconut, depending on your preference.
1 can of sweetened condensed milk (395g): This is the star of the dessert, adding creamy sweetness and a rich flavor.

½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a unique savory touch, balancing out the sweetness of the condensed milk and coconut.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the 4-Ingredient Dessert

This recipe couldn’t be easier to follow. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in under 30 minutes.

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start mixing everything together, make sure you’ve gathered and prepared all your ingredients.

Separate the egg yolks: Crack two eggs and carefully separate the yolks from the whites. We’ll only be using the yolks in this recipe.
Shred the coconut: If you’re using whole or large coconut flakes, you might want to shred or finely chop them for better texture in the dessert.
Grate the Parmesan cheese: Use finely grated Parmesan to ensure it mixes smoothly into the dessert.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to combine them into a smooth, creamy mixture.

Combine the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks: In a mixing bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk and the two egg yolks. It’s best to sieve the egg yolks first to remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Mix thoroughly: Use a whisk or spoon to stir the mixture until it’s fully combined. You want it to be smooth with no streaks of egg yolk.
Add the coconut and Parmesan: Once the condensed milk and egg yolks are mixed, gradually add the shredded coconut and the finely grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture carefully to ensure that the coconut and cheese are evenly distributed.

Tip: Make sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid overmixing. This helps retain the texture of the coconut and the slight graininess of the Parmesan, which gives the dessert a unique mouthfeel.

3. Bake the Dessert

Now that your dessert mixture is ready, it’s time to bake it to perfection.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish: Pour the prepared mixture into a baking dish. There’s no need to grease the dish, as the condensed milk mixture won’t stick much.
Bake in a bain-marie: This recipe calls for baking the dessert in a bain-marie (water bath) to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture. To do this, place the baking dish with the dessert mixture into a larger baking tray. Fill the larger tray with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven: Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C) and place the bain-marie in the center of the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the dessert is set but still slightly soft in the center.

Tip: Keep an eye on the dessert as it bakes. You don’t want to overcook it, as it should remain creamy and soft. The edges may start to brown slightly, but the center should still jiggle a bit when done.

4. Cool and Serve

Once your dessert is baked, let it cool slightly before serving.

Remove from the oven: Carefully take the baking dish out of the bain-marie and place it on a cooling rack.
Let it cool: Allow the dessert to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together and the texture to firm up slightly.
Serve and enjoy: Serve the dessert warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for Making the Perfect 4-Ingredient Dessert

Use fresh ingredients: Since this recipe has so few ingredients, the quality of each one matters. Make sure to use fresh eggs, high-quality Parmesan, and coconut for the best flavor.
Adjust sweetness: If you find the dessert too sweet, you can reduce the amount of condensed milk slightly or use unsweetened shredded coconut to balance the sweetness.
Experiment with flavors: This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut or extra grated Parmesan on top before baking for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh coconut instead of dried shredded coconut?

Yes, you can use fresh coconut, but it’s important to note that fresh coconut has more moisture than dried coconut. If using fresh coconut, you may need to reduce the amount slightly or bake the dessert a bit longer to account for the added moisture.

What is a bain-marie, and why is it necessary?

A bain-marie is a water bath used in baking to ensure even, gentle cooking. By placing the dessert dish in a larger tray filled with hot water, you prevent the dessert from cooking too quickly or unevenly. This method is essential for delicate desserts like this one, as it helps maintain the creamy texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this dessert ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days. Just let it come to room temperature before serving, or reheat it gently in the oven if you prefer it warm.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another cheese?

While Parmesan adds a unique savory flavor that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. However, keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the cheese you use.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can either eat it cold or warm it up in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.

Conclusion

This easy and simple 4-ingredient dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and savory all at once. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a dinner party, or just indulging in a mid-week treat, this recipe is sure to please.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite in many households. Enjoy!