How to Make a Simple Creamy Dessert: A Quick and Delicious Treat

Are you craving a sweet, creamy dessert that’s easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort? This simple creamy dessert is the perfect solution! With only four main ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a rich and zesty treat that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. The best part? It requires no baking and only a few minutes of preparation.

This dessert features layers of cookies soaked in milk and a smooth, tangy cream made from condensed milk, cream, and lemon juice. With a refreshing lemon zest topping, it’s light but indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a quick treat, this creamy dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into the recipe, including step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and FAQs at the end for perfect results every time!

Ingredients for the Simple Creamy Dessert

This recipe requires just a few ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Despite the simplicity of the ingredients, the result is a rich and flavorful dessert that tastes like it took hours to make.

Ingredient List:

1 packet of cookies – You can use any type of cookies you prefer, but plain tea biscuits or digestive cookies work particularly well for soaking up the cream mixture.
2 cartons of cream – Heavy cream or whipping cream is best for a smooth and luxurious texture.

150 ml lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
2 cartons of condensed milk – This adds sweetness and thickness to the dessert.
1 cup milk – Used to moisten the cookies, ensuring a soft texture that blends perfectly with the cream.

Lemon zest and crushed cookies (for decoration) – Adds a pop of color and crunch to the finished dessert.

Instructions: How to Make This Easy Creamy Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

Start by placing the two cartons of condensed milk and the cream into a blender. Blend the ingredients for about 1 minute until they are well combined and smooth.

With the blender running, gradually add the lemon juice in a slow stream. Continue blending for another 2-3 minutes. The lemon juice will react with the cream and condensed milk, thickening the mixture and giving it a lovely tangy flavor.

Tip: The acidity of the lemon juice thickens the cream, giving the dessert a mousse-like texture. Be sure to add the juice slowly to avoid any separation in the mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Layers

In a shallow bowl, pour the cup of milk. Dip each cookie briefly into the milk, making sure not to soak them too long, as they can become soggy. You just want to moisten them enough to soften when layered in the dessert.

Tip: If you prefer a more flavorful soaking liquid, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or even a bit of lemon juice to the milk for extra zest.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

In a baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the creamy lemon mixture at the bottom. Then, cover this layer with the milk-soaked cookies, arranging them in a single layer. Follow this with another layer of the cream mixture.

Repeat the layering process—cream, cookies, cream—until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a final layer of cream on top.

Tip: Make sure the top layer of cream is smooth and evenly spread for a polished look before decorating.

Step 4: Decorate and Chill

Once all the layers are assembled, it’s time to decorate! Sprinkle some lemon zest over the top for a burst of color and refreshing flavor. Crushed cookies also make a great topping, adding texture and a little crunch to contrast with the creamy layers.

Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cream to set.

Tip: For a more intense lemon flavor, you can mix a bit of lemon zest into the cream as well as using it for decoration.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After the dessert has chilled and firmed up, it’s ready to be served! Use a spatula to slice it into squares or scoop out individual portions, depending on the size of your dish. The layers of soft cookies and tangy, creamy filling create a beautiful and delicious presentation.

Tips for the Best Simple Creamy Dessert

Use Fresh Ingredients
Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated lemon zest will give your dessert the best flavor. If you use bottled lemon juice or dried zest, the flavors might not be as vibrant.
Choose Your Cookies Wisely
The type of cookie you use can change the texture of the dessert. Digestive cookies, graham crackers, or tea biscuits work well because they soften nicely without becoming too mushy. For a twist, you can try using ginger snaps or chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile.
Let It Chill
Chilling the dessert for at least 1-2 hours (or even overnight) helps it set properly and allows the cookies to absorb the cream, making for a more cohesive dish. Don’t skip this step!
Customize the Layers
You can get creative with this recipe by adding additional layers between the cookies and cream. Try incorporating fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a burst of freshness, or drizzle a bit of melted chocolate between layers for extra indulgence.
Add Some Crunch
Crushed cookies or even nuts like almonds or pistachios can add a wonderful crunchy texture to the otherwise smooth and creamy dessert. It’s an easy way to elevate the presentation and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Other Citrus Fruits Instead of Lemon?

Yes! While lemon adds a bright and tangy flavor, you can substitute lime or even orange juice for a different citrus twist. Lime juice will give a similar tangy flavor, while orange will add a slightly sweeter note.

2. Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, making it ahead gives the cookies more time to soften and absorb the flavors, resulting in an even better texture.

3. What Other Toppings Can I Use Besides Lemon Zest?

In addition to lemon zest and crushed cookies, you can top the dessert with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or fresh fruit like berries. Toasted coconut or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also add a unique touch.

4. Can I Use Whipped Cream Instead of Condensed Milk?

Whipped cream can be used, but it will change the texture and sweetness of the dessert. Condensed milk adds a rich, sweet flavor and a denser consistency, while whipped cream will make the dessert lighter and less sweet. If using whipped cream, you may want to add a bit of sugar to compensate.

5. How Long Will This Dessert Last in the Refrigerator?

This dessert will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator if kept in an airtight container. The cookies may continue to soften the longer it sits, so for the best texture, try to consume it within the first 1-2 days.

Conclusion

This simple creamy dessert is a delightful and effortless way to satisfy your sweet cravings. With its layers of milk-soaked cookies and tangy lemon cream, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake dessert can be whipped up in minutes and customized to your liking with different toppings or flavor twists.

Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just as a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to desserts. Try it today, and enjoy the refreshing, creamy goodness!