Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 2 cups of cubed sponge cake or vanilla cake
- 1–2 tablespoons of milk or simple syrup (optional, for moistening)
For the Cream Layer
- 400 ml cold heavy cream (or whipping cream)
- 250 g mascarpone OR cream cheese
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional if you prefer sweeter cream)
For the Topping
- Cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a mix
- Optional: grated chocolate or cookie crumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layer
Start by cutting your sponge cake or vanilla cake into small cubes. They should be soft and moist but not soggy. Place a handful of cake cubes into each glass cup, forming an even first layer. If you love moist desserts, drizzle the cake lightly with milk, coffee, or simple syrup. This step enhances the texture and gives each bite a melt-in-the-mouth feel.
Step 2: Make the Cream
In a large chilled bowl, add your cold heavy cream and begin whipping it using an electric mixer. Whip until it forms soft peaks. In another bowl, beat the mascarpone or cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
Now gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Avoid overmixing, as you want the cream to stay fluffy and light. Taste the mixture; if you want it sweeter, add powdered sugar and fold gently again.
This cream should be silky, airy, and perfect for spooning over the cake layer.
Step 3: Add the Cream Layer
Scoop a generous amount of the cream mixture onto the cake layer in each cup. Spread it gently with a spoon to create an even surface. The thickness of the cream layer is up to you, but the more cream, the better the texture.
Step 4: Chill
This step is crucial for the dessert to set properly. Refrigerate the cups for at least 2–4 hours, or ideally overnight. The cake absorbs a bit of the cream, the textures settle, and the flavor becomes richer and more intense.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Right before serving, dust the tops with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a combination of both. This adds color, aroma, and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cream perfectly.
You can also add chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm, cozy finish.
Tips for the Perfect Dessert
Use cold cream:
Cold heavy cream whips faster and produces a stable, airy texture.
Don’t overbeat mascarpone or cream cheese:
Overmixing can make it grainy. Mix just until smooth.
Chill for enough time:
This dessert tastes best when the layers have had time to bind and firm up.
Choose the right cake:
Vanilla sponge is perfect, but you can also use pound cake, ladyfingers, or leftover homemade cake.
Variations You Can Try
Fruit Lovers Version:
Add chopped peaches, mango, strawberries, or pineapple on top of the cake layer. It adds freshness and a burst of juicy flavor.
Chocolate Version:
Use chocolate cake instead of vanilla and sprinkle chocolate cocoa powder or chocolate chips on top.
Caramel Version:
Mix two tablespoons of caramel sauce into the cream for a deeper flavor.
Coffee Version:
Moisten the cake cubes with coffee syrup for a tiramisu-style twist. Dust with cocoa for a perfect finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dessert cups chilled for the best texture. They are perfect for guests because the individual portions look elegant and require no cutting or plating. You can also prepare them in a big trifle bowl if you’re feeding a large group.
Storage
Keep the dessert refrigerated. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavor often improves on the second day.