Creamy Layered Delight: The Perfect No-Bake Biscuit Pudding
Introduction
This creamy layered delight is a no-bake biscuit pudding that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible to eat. With alternating layers of biscuits soaked in coffee or milk, and velvety cream or custard, it’s a dessert that feels both homely and indulgent. Perfect for those times when you want a show-stopping treat without turning on the oven, this pudding combines smooth creaminess with a soft, cake-like texture created by the biscuits absorbing all that flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Base Layers
- 300 g (about 25–30 pieces) plain tea biscuits (Marie, digestive, or graham crackers)
- 1 cup milk or coffee (for dipping biscuits)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for sweetening milk/coffee)
For the Cream Layer
- 500 ml (2 cups) chilled heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Custard Layer (Optional but Recommended)
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons custard powder (vanilla flavor)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
For Garnish
- Cocoa powder, grated chocolate, or crushed nuts
Instructions & Methods
Step 1 – Prepare the Custard (if using)
- In a saucepan, mix custard powder and sugar with a little cold milk to make a smooth paste.
- Heat the remaining milk until warm, then pour in the custard paste while stirring.
- Cook on medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 2 – Whip the Cream
4. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
5. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3 – Prepare the Biscuits
6. Mix milk or coffee with sugar (optional) in a shallow dish.
7. Quickly dip each biscuit for 1–2 seconds (don’t oversoak or they’ll fall apart).
Step 4 – Assemble the Layers
8. In a serving dish, place a single layer of soaked biscuits.
9. Spread an even layer of whipped cream (or custard if layering both).
10. Alternate between biscuit layers and cream/custard layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with a cream layer on top.
Step 5 – Garnish & Chill
11. Dust the top with cocoa powder or grated chocolate.
12. Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for flavor melding).
Cooking Methods
Method 1 – Classic Refrigerator Method
- Assemble and chill for 4–6 hours. The biscuits soften into a cake-like texture.
Method 2 – Freezer-Chilled (for Ice Cream-Like Texture)
- Freeze for 2–3 hours, then thaw for 10 minutes before serving.
History of Biscuit Pudding
The concept of layered biscuit pudding likely evolved from British trifle traditions, where sponge cake was layered with cream and custard. In the mid-20th century, quick no-bake desserts became popular in households, especially in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, where Marie biscuits or similar dry biscuits were readily available. This dessert remains a favorite in many cultures for its minimal ingredients, ease, and nostalgic charm.
Health Benefits
- No frying, no baking: Lower in fat compared to deep-fried desserts.
- Calcium boost: From milk, cream, and custard.
- Customizable: Can be made lighter with low-fat milk and cream or sugar-free biscuits.
- Portion control friendly: Easy to serve in small cups or glasses.
Formation (Layering & Presentation)
- Use a glass dish to show off the layers.
- For individual servings, layer in small dessert glasses or mason jars.
- Alternate cream and custard for a dual-color effect.
- Add a final garnish of chocolate curls or nuts for elegance.
Conclusion
The Creamy Layered Delight is the perfect fusion of comfort and indulgence—no oven, no fuss, just pure bliss in every spoonful. Its soft layers melt in the mouth while the cream adds a rich, velvety finish. This dessert is a lifesaver for last-minute entertaining or when your sweet tooth demands attention without too much effort.
For Lovers
This pudding is romantic because it’s shareable and spoon-fed.
- Serve in one big bowl with two spoons for a cozy movie night.
- Garnish the top with a dusting of cocoa in the shape of a heart.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce spelling out their initials.
- Present it as a “sweet surprise” after a candlelit dinner.