Indulge in the ethereal delight of “Heavenly Portuguese Cream Dessert,” a staple in Portuguese confectionery. This dessert features a harmonious layering of softly whipped cream, ethereal meringue, and Maria cookies, crowned with a smooth, rich egg yolk custard. Each layer complements the others, creating a luscious combination of textures and flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Portuguese culinary tradition.
Why You’ll Love This:
This dessert offers a sublime mix of textures—from the crunch of Maria cookies to the silky smoothness of whipped cream and meringue. The luxurious egg yolk sweet that tops this dessert adds a depth of flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. Simple to assemble yet elegant in presentation, this dessert is a testament to the beauty of Portuguese sweets, making it a perfect treat for both casual and formal occasions.
Perfect Occasion:
This creamy, layered dessert is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or as a special treat after a meal. Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or simply a weekend family dinner, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth. Its elegant appearance and delightful flavors make it especially suitable for festive occasions or as a luxurious finish to a dinner party.
Decoration Tips:
- Cookie Crumbs: Sprinkle crushed Maria cookies on top for added texture and to reinforce the flavor throughout.
- Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a touch of freshness and color.
- Mint Sprigs: Add a few mint leaves for a refreshing visual and flavor contrast.
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a sweet, finishing touch that enhances the dessert’s visual appeal.
- Caramel Drizzle: For a bit of extra sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish, drizzle caramel over the top before serving.
Ingredients:
- For the Cream and Meringue Layers:
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 6 egg whites
- 40g granulated sugar (for the cream)
- 80g granulated sugar (for the meringue)
- For the Egg Yolk Sweet:
- 6 egg yolks
- 130g granulated sugar
- 120 ml water
- Additional:
- ½ package of Maria cookies, crushed
- A few drops of vanilla extract (optional for extra flavoring in the cream)
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Cookie Base:
- Crush the Maria cookies finely and layer them at the bottom of your serving dish.
- Whip the Cream:
- Whip the heavy cream with 40g of sugar until it forms soft peaks, then set aside.
- Make the Meringue:
- Beat the egg whites, gradually adding 80g of sugar, until stiff peaks form.
- Cook the Egg Yolk Sweet:
- Combine egg yolks, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Layer the Dessert:
- On the cookie base, layer the whipped cream, then the meringue. Chill for at least an hour.
- Once chilled, spread the cooled egg yolk sweet over the top.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for an additional few hours or overnight. Garnish as suggested before serving.
Enjoy this Heavenly Portuguese Cream Dessert, a true celebration of flavors and textures that make every bite memorable!
