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!