No-Bake Orange Coconut Cream Dessert

Discover a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the bright flavors of citrus with creamy richness. This elegant layered dessert features a buttery cookie base, velvety orange-citrus filling, and a cloud-like whipped cream topping. Perfect for warm summer days or when you need an impressive dessert without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

For the Orange Custard Layer

  • 4 oranges (200ml/7 fl oz juice)
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 20g (0.7 oz) sugar
  • 20g (0.7 oz) cornstarch

For the Cream Layer

  • 2 lemons (20ml/0.7 fl oz juice)
  • 80g (2.8 oz) condensed milk
  • 100g (3.5 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 100ml (3.5 fl oz) whipping cream

For the Base

  • 200g (7 oz) cookies
  • 30g (1 oz) coconut flakes
  • 80g (2.8 oz) white chocolate
  • 80g (2.8 oz) butter, melted

For Decoration

  • Whipping cream for piping
  • Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Custard

  1. Extract juice from 4 oranges (approximately 200ml)
  2. In a saucepan, combine orange juice, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened
  4. Remove from heat and let cool completely

Step 2: Make the Cream Filling

  1. Juice the lemons to get 20ml juice
  2. Mix lemon juice with condensed milk until thickened
  3. Fold in ricotta cheese
  4. Gradually add whipping cream, beating until smooth

Step 3: Prepare the Base

  1. Crush cookies finely
  2. Mix in coconut flakes
  3. Melt white chocolate
  4. Combine melted chocolate with melted butter
  5. Mix all base ingredients until well combined
  6. Press mixture into a lined rectangular pan

Step 4: Assembly

  1. Spread cooled orange custard over the base
  2. Layer cream filling on top
  3. Refrigerate for 30 minutes
  4. Pipe decorative whipped cream on top
  5. Dust with cinnamon or cocoa powder

Nutritional Information

Per serving (12 servings):

  • Calories: 325
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 18g

Timing:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Pro Tips and Tricks

  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing
  • Strain orange juice to remove pulp for smoother custard
  • Chill bowl and beaters for better whipped cream
  • Use a food processor for finely crushed cookies
  • Line pan with parchment paper for easy removal

Variations and Substitutions

  • Replace orange with mandarin or blood orange juice
  • Use mascarpone instead of ricotta
  • Substitute graham crackers for cookies
  • Try dark chocolate instead of white chocolate
  • Use alternative citrus combinations like lime and grapefruit
  • Make it dairy-free using coconut cream alternatives

Common FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated.

Q: Why isn’t my custard thickening?
A: Continue cooking while stirring; the cornstarch needs to reach boiling point to activate.

Q: Can I freeze this dessert?
A: Not recommended as the texture of the cream layers may change.

Q: How long will it keep in the refrigerator?
A: Up to 3 days when properly stored.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
  • Keep away from strong-smelling foods
  • Add decorative toppings just before serving
  • Can prepare components separately day before
  • Best consumed within 3 days
  • Do not freeze