Introduction
If you’re looking for a no-bake dessert that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and vibrant, then a Special Fruit Pavé might be your next favorite recipe. Pavé (pronounced pah-VAY) is a Brazilian layered dessert traditionally made with cookies (or ladyfingers), creamy fillings, and a variety of fruits or other flavors. This recipe gives the classic a tropical twist with layers of banana, mango, strawberries, and pineapple, all brought together with a vanilla cream cheese filling.
The name “Pavé” comes from the French word for “paving stone,” referring to the blocky layered structure of the dessert. It’s often served chilled, making it the perfect refreshing dish for summer parties, special occasions, or just a delightful end to a cozy family dinner.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Cream Layer:
-
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
-
1 cup whole milk
-
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
-
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for a thicker consistency)
-
1/2 cup heavy cream (for added richness)
For the Cookie Layers:
-
1–2 packages of Maria biscuits, graham crackers, or ladyfingers (depending on your dish size)
-
1/2 cup milk (for dipping cookies)
For the Fruit Layers:
-
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
-
1 mango, peeled and diced
-
1 banana, sliced (tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning)
-
1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks
-
1 kiwi, peeled and sliced (optional)
-
Juice of 1/2 lemon (to prevent fruit oxidation)
Garnish (Optional):
-
Shredded coconut
-
Chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, or cashews)
-
Mint leaves
-
Fruit glaze or jelly (for shine)
🍽 Equipment
-
9×13 inch glass baking dish or a similar-sized serving tray
-
Electric mixer or whisk
-
Medium saucepan
-
Rubber spatula
-
Mixing bowls
🧁 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, evaporated milk, and cornstarch (if using).
-
Stir continuously to avoid lumps and heat until slightly thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
-
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
-
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy and smooth.
-
Slowly add the slightly cooled milk mixture to the cream cheese, beating until fully incorporated.
-
Add vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat again for 2–3 minutes until the cream is silky and smooth.
-
Set aside to cool to room temperature or chill slightly in the refrigerator while preparing the fruits.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruits
-
Wash, peel, and chop all your fruits as needed.
-
Toss banana and apple slices (if using) with lemon juice to prevent oxidation.
-
Arrange the fruits in bowls for easy layering.
Step 3: Assemble the Pavé
-
Lightly dip cookies one by one in milk (do not soak) and place them in a single layer on the bottom of your baking dish.
-
Spread 1/3 of the cream mixture over the cookies and smooth the top.
-
Layer a mix of fruits over the cream. Try to evenly distribute them so each bite gets a bit of everything.
-
Repeat the layers – cookies, cream, and fruit – until you’ve used up the ingredients. End with a cream layer.
-
For a fancy finish, top with an artful arrangement of fruit slices and sprinkle with shredded coconut or nuts if desired.
Step 4: Chill and Set
-
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid.
-
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
🧠 Tips and Variations
-
Use Different Cookies: You can experiment with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate cookies.
-
Tropical Twist: Add passion fruit pulp or coconut milk to the cream layer for more exotic flavor.
-
Make it Vegan: Use coconut condensed milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and plant-based cookies.
-
Mini Versions: Assemble in cups or jars for individual servings, perfect for parties or picnics.
-
Firmer Texture: Add unflavored gelatin to the cream mixture if you want a firmer consistency that holds up better outside the fridge.
📦 Storage Instructions
-
Store covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
-
Not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the fruits and cream may change upon thawing.
🎉 Serving Suggestions
-
Serve chilled in generous squares.
-
Pair it with a hot cup of tea or iced coffee.
-
Add a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
📚 Final Thoughts
This Special Fruit Pavé is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of vibrant, fresh flavors layered in a cool and creamy blanket. It requires no baking, comes together easily with pantry and fridge staples, and offers endless room for creativity. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, a family get-together, or just because you’re craving something sweet and satisfying, this pavé won’t disappoint.
With a perfect balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and creamy goodness, it’s no surprise that this dessert has remained a beloved staple in many Latin American homes—and now it can be in yours too.
