Napoleon in a Glass – The Lazy Dessert You’ll Love

When you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours baking, this “Napoleon in a Glass” is your go-to treat. It’s creamy, crunchy, and perfectly layered—just like the traditional Napoleon cake—but much simpler and faster to make.

This no-fuss dessert comes together with pantry staples, and the results are both elegant and indulgent. It’s ideal for last-minute guests, quick weeknight sweets, or just spoiling yourself with minimal effort.

 Ingredients

For the Crumb Layers (“sand”):

• Pastry scraps, puff pastry, or crushed cookies (like graham crackers or puff pastry sheets)

• Optional: A bit of butter and sugar if using plain crumbs

For the Custard Cream:

• 4 egg yolks

• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar

• 2 cups (500ml) milk

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crumb Layers (“Sand”)

1. Crush your pastry, puff pastry, or cookies into fine crumbs.

2. Add the crumbs to a dry pan over medium heat.

3. Stir constantly to toast the crumbs evenly until golden brown—this takes about 8–10 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

4. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pro tip: For extra richness, you can mix the crumbs with a little melted butter and sugar before toasting.

2. Make the Custard Cream

1. In a non-stick saucepan, combine sugar and egg yolks. Whisk until pale and smooth.

2. Pour in the milk and whisk again to combine.

3. Add the flour and mix until there are no lumps.

4. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly.

5. Cook for 6–10 minutes, or until the cream thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

6. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract (if using), and let cool to room temperature.

3. Assemble the Napoleon in a Glass

1. In serving glasses or cups, start with a layer of the toasted crumbs (about 2 tablespoons).

2. Add a layer of custard cream (2 tablespoons).

3. Repeat the layering process until the glass is full, finishing with a layer of crumbs on top.

You can make 3–4 layers depending on your glass size.

4. Chill and Serve

• Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour to set the layers and enhance the flavor.

• Before serving, garnish with:

  • A dusting of powdered sugar

  • Crushed nuts

  • Fresh berries

  • A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce

Why You’ll Love It

• No oven needed

• Perfect make-ahead dessert

• Kid-friendly and customizable

• Elegant presentation with minimal effort

Whether you call it a deconstructed Napoleon or a “lazy-layered delight,” this dessert hits all the right notes—creamy, crunchy, and comfortingly sweet.

 Have you tried this recipe?

Let us know how it turned out or share your own twist in the comments!