Creamy Dessert in a Glass – Elegant Layers of Crumb and Cream

This Creamy Dessert in a Glass is a beautiful combination of buttery toasted crumbs and smooth custard-like cream, layered to perfection. Easy to make yet impressive to serve, it’s ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or a cozy night treat.

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
• Caramel drizzle

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crumb Layer

1. Combine the dry ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the butter:
   Grate in the cold butter and mix with your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Toast the crumbs:
   Transfer the mixture to a dry non-stick skillet and toast over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden brown and aromatic.
4. Cool completely:
   Spread the toasted crumbs on a plate or tray to cool fully. This keeps them crispy.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Layer

1. Whisk the yolks and sugar:
   In a saucepan off the heat, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale and smooth.
2. Add milk and flour:
   Gradually stir in milk, then sift in the flour and whisk to combine.
3. Cook the cream:
   Place over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a custard (about 8–10 minutes).
4. Add butter and cool:
   Remove from heat, stir in butter until smooth, and let the cream cool to room temperature.

---

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

1. Layer the crumbs and cream:
   In small serving glasses, start with a spoonful of toasted crumbs, followed by a layer of cream. Repeat until the glass is filled.
2. Chill:
   Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and the flavors to blend.
3. Garnish:
   Before serving, top with your choice of berries, chocolate shavings, nuts, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

---

Tips for Best Results

• Let both the crumbs and cream cool completely before layering.
• Use clear glasses to show off the layers beautifully.
• The dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.