Create an elegant, creamy dessert in just 5 minutes of active cooking time with this foolproof recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into a sophisticated treat. This no-bake dessert combines the richness of condensed milk with fresh fruits and a silky smooth base that sets beautifully in the refrigerator. Perfect for last-minute entertaining or when you’re craving something sweet without the complexity of traditional baking.
Ingredients
For the Cream Base:
- 1 liter whole milk (4.2 cups / 33.8 fl oz)
- 200g sweetened condensed milk (7 oz / about 3/4 cup)
- 200g cornstarch (7 oz / 1.75 cups)
- 10g vanilla sugar (2 teaspoons)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 100g granulated sugar (3.5 oz / 1/2 cup)
- 150ml heavy cream (5 fl oz / 2/3 cup)
- 30g butter (1 oz / 2 tablespoons)
For the Fruit & Toppings:
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
- 100g red grapes, halved (3.5 oz)
- 50g coconut flakes (1.75 oz)
- 50g walnuts, chopped (1.75 oz)
Instructions
Make the Cream Base
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 200ml of the cold milk, whisking until completely smooth with no lumps.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the remaining 800ml milk with condensed milk and vanilla sugar.
- Heat the milk mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to warm.
- Gradually add the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 5-8 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly while preparing other components.
Prepare the Caramel
- In a dry saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat without stirring until it begins to melt and turn golden.
- Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar becomes deep amber caramel.
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream while whisking (mixture will bubble vigorously).
- Add butter and whisk until smooth. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Fruits
- Peel and segment the orange, removing all white pith.
- Slice the banana into rounds.
- Peel and slice the kiwi into rounds.
- Halve the grapes and remove any seeds.
Assemble the Dessert
- Pour half of the cream mixture into a rectangular glass dish or individual serving glasses.
- Layer the prepared fruits evenly over the cream.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture on top, smoothing with a spatula.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top layer.
- Sprinkle with coconut flakes and chopped walnuts.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Time, Servings & Nutrition
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8-10 portions
Nutrition (per serving): Approximately 285 calories, 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, 11g fat, 2g fiber
Why This Dessert is a Smart Choice
This dessert provides a lighter alternative to heavy baked goods while still delivering satisfying sweetness and creamy texture. The cornstarch-based cream offers a silky mouthfeel without eggs or excessive dairy fat, while the fresh fruits contribute essential vitamins, fiber, and natural enzymes that aid digestion.
The combination of vitamin C from oranges and kiwi supports immune function, while bananas provide potassium for heart health and natural sugars for sustained energy. Walnuts add heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this dessert more nutritionally balanced than typical sweet treats. The coconut flakes contribute healthy fats and fiber, while the milk and condensed milk provide calcium and protein. This no-bake method preserves the maximum nutritional value of the fresh fruits while creating an impressive presentation that satisfies dessert cravings without excessive processing or artificial ingredients.