Introduction:
“Heaven Sits in a Bowl” is a delectable dessert that promises to take your taste buds on a journey of pure bliss.
A combination of rich, creamy layers and a touch of sweetness, this dish has the perfect balance of textures and flavors, offering an indulgent treat that feels like an escape to paradise.
Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a simple craving, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Base Layer:
1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
¼ cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
For the Creamy Filling:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup powdered sugar
For the Topping:
1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or a mix)
2 tablespoons honey or fruit syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
For Garnish:
A few mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
Press this mixture into the base of serving bowls (individual bowls or one large bowl) to form a solid layer. Set aside in the fridge to firm up for 20–30 minutes.
Make the Creamy Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form (you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer).
In another bowl, blend together the sweetened condensed milk, softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and creamy.
Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
Assemble the Dessert:
Once the crust has set, spoon the creamy filling over the graham cracker base, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Add a few fresh berries on top, and drizzle lightly with honey or fruit syrup if desired.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Garnish with mint leaves before serving, if desired.
Description:
“Heaven Sits in a Bowl” is a no-bake, layered dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese and whipped cream with a crisp, buttery graham cracker base.
The lightness of the creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the base, while the fresh berries on top add a burst of natural sweetness and color.
It’s a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, perfect for any celebration or a simple treat to enjoy after a meal.
Tips:
Texture Variation:
You can add crushed nuts (like walnuts or almonds) to the base for added texture and flavor.
Flavor Customization:
Experiment with different flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a twist on the classic vanilla.
Make Ahead:
This dessert can be made the night before, allowing the flavors to meld and making it an easy option for entertaining.
Vegan Version:
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
Corrections (if applicable):
Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
If it’s too cold, it can cause lumps in the filling.
If you’re using a store-bought crust, ensure it’s fully chilled before adding the creamy filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
For an extra smooth finish, you can blend the cream cheese mixture with an electric mixer rather than by hand to ensure there are no lumps.
Enjoy your delicious and heavenly dessert!