Creamy Dessert in a Glass | Elegant Layered Treat with Crunchy Crumbs & Velvety Cream

Looking for a beautiful, make-ahead dessert that looks fancy and tastes even better? This Creamy Dessert in a Glass combines two irresistible textures: crispy toasted crumbs and silky smooth custard cream, layered to perfection in a single serving cup or glass.

It’s perfect for dinner parties, festive holidays, or when you want a rich dessert without the hassle of baking an entire cake.

 Ingredients

For the Crumb Layer:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)

• 1 ½ tablespoons sugar

• 1 pinch of salt

• 8.5 tablespoons cold butter (120g), grated

For the Cream Layer:

• ¼ cup + 1 teaspoon sugar (60g)

• 2 egg yolks

• 1 ¼ cups milk (300ml) (any fat content)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons butter (30g)

Optional toppings:
Fresh berries, grated chocolate, powdered sugar, nuts, or caramel drizzle.

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Make the Crumb Layer

1. Combine the dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, mix:

   • 1½ cups flour

   • 1½ tablespoons sugar

   • A pinch of salt

2. Grate in the butter
   Add 8.5 tablespoons of cold grated butter. Use a fork or your fingers to combine until the mixture resembles coarse, sandy crumbs.

3. Toast the crumbs
   Transfer the mixture to a dry non-stick skillet and toast over low heat, stirring constantly for 5–7 minutes, or until the crumbs are golden brown and fragrant.

4. Cool completely
   Spread the toasted crumbs on a plate or tray and let them cool completely. This step is essential to preserve their crispiness.

 Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer

1. Whisk egg yolks and sugar
   In a saucepan (off the heat), whisk:

   • 2 egg yolks

   • ¼ cup + 1 tsp sugar
     Mix until the mixture is light and smooth.

2. Add milk and flour
   Stir in 1¼ cups milk gradually. Then sift in 2 tablespoons of flour to avoid lumps. Whisk until fully combined.

3. Cook the cream
   Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the cream thickens and reaches a custard-like consistency (about 8–10 minutes).

4. Add butter
   Remove from heat, stir in 2 tablespoons butter, and mix until smooth.

5. Cool the cream
   Let the cream cool to room temperature before assembling to ensure it sets properly in the glass.

 Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

1. Start with crumbs
   In small serving glasses or dessert cups, add a generous spoonful of the toasted crumbs as the base.

2. Add the cream
   Spoon or pipe a layer of the cooled cream over the crumbs.

3. Repeat layers
   Continue layering: crumbs → cream → crumbs, ending with a layer of cream or crumbs depending on your presentation preference.

4. Chill to set
   Place the glasses in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the dessert to firm up and flavors to meld.

5. Garnish before serving
   Top with your favorite additions:

   • Fresh strawberries or raspberries

   • Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder

   • Chopped nuts or crushed cookies

   • A dusting of powdered sugar

 Storage Tips

• Store assembled desserts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

• This dessert should not be frozen, as the cream may separate.

 Expert Tips & Variations

• Toast crumbs slowly to get a golden, nutty flavor. Stir continuously to avoid burning.

• Use a piping bag for cleaner cream layers.

• Add vanilla extract or lemon zest to the cream for extra flavor.

• For a chocolate twist, mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the flour when making the crumbs.

 Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and store in the fridge. It actually tastes better after chilling.

❓ Can I use store-bought crumbs?

You can, but homemade toasted crumbs offer much better flavor and texture.

❓ Is it safe to eat egg yolks in the cream?

Yes, they are cooked during the cream-making process and pose no risk when properly prepared.

 Final Thoughts

This Creamy Dessert in a Glass is rich, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make. With its buttery, toasted crumb layers and smooth custard cream, it offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor in every spoonful. Ideal for parties, holidays, or romantic dinners, this layered treat will leave your guests asking for seconds.

 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment and let us know how it turned out! What did you use for toppings?

enjoy!