Creamy Dessert in a Glass: A Quick & Elegant Treat
This Creamy Dessert in a Glass is the perfect no-bake treat for any occasion! With light, fluffy cream, crushed cookies, and fresh fruit, it’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s both delicious and customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 10 minutes, no baking required.
✔ Rich & Creamy – A luxurious whipped cream & mascarpone base.
✔ Customizable – Use any cookies or fruit for endless variations.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill in advance for a perfectly set dessert.
✔ Perfect for Entertaining – Serve in individual glasses for an elegant presentation.
Recipe Categories
- Cuisine: International
- Course: Dessert
- Cooking Method: No-Bake
Cooking & Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Serving glasses or dessert cups
- Spatula
Creamy Dessert in a Glass Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 4 Servings)
✅ 1 cup heavy whipping cream
✅ ½ cup mascarpone or cream cheese (softened)
✅ ¼ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
✅ ½ cup crushed cookies (graham crackers, Oreos, or Biscoff)
✅ ½ cup fresh fruit (strawberries, raspberries, or mango, chopped)
✅ Chocolate shavings, nuts, or caramel sauce for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Cream
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form.
- Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can turn grainy.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- In another bowl, mix the mascarpone (or cream cheese), powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine & Fold
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
- Use a spatula and fold slowly to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
- Start with a layer of crushed cookies at the bottom of each glass.
- Add a layer of the creamy mixture.
- Sprinkle with chopped fruit.
- Repeat the layers as desired.
Step 5: Garnish & Chill
- Top with chocolate shavings, nuts, or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend and set.
Tips for Success
✔ Use Cold Heavy Cream – It whips faster and holds its shape better.
✔ Fold Gently – Overmixing will deflate the whipped cream.
✔ Chill Before Serving – It enhances flavor and texture.
✔ Use Fresh Fruit – Frozen fruit releases too much moisture.
Variations & Add-Ins
🍫 Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add cocoa powder to the mascarpone mix & top with chocolate chips.
🥥 Tropical Twist: Use toasted coconut, mango, and pineapple.
🍯 Caramel Delight: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce & add pecans.
☕ Coffee Infused: Mix espresso powder into the whipped cream for a tiramisu-inspired dessert.
Serving Suggestions
🍷 Elegant Presentation: Serve in wine glasses or mason jars.
🍓 Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve with extra strawberries or raspberries.
🍪 Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with crushed cookies or granola for a crunchy bite.
🍯 Drizzle with Honey or Caramel: Adds extra sweetness & depth.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing Not Recommended: The texture will become grainy once thawed.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cream mixture up to a day ahead and assemble before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 110mg
FAQs
1. Can I use Cool Whip instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Cool Whip is a great shortcut, but homemade whipped cream has a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare & refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mascarpone?
Yes! Greek yogurt adds protein and makes the dessert lighter.
4. How do I prevent the whipped cream from deflating?
Gently fold it in—don’t stir too aggressively.
5. Can I use different cookies?
Yes! Shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even brownie crumbs work well.
Creamy Dessert in a Glass
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- In another bowl, mix mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
- Layer crushed cookies, creamy mixture, and fresh fruit in serving glasses.
- Repeat layers, then garnish with chocolate shavings or caramel sauce.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days for the best texture.
- Use different fruits & cookies for variety.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the cream light & fluffy.