Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then the Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert is exactly what you need. This no-bake dessert combines the richness of dulce de leche with the light and airy texture of whipped cream, all layered between sweet Maria cookies. It’s the ultimate indulgence with minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a potluck, or simply want a comforting treat, this dessert is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful dessert that’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

Before we get into the specifics of the recipe, let’s talk about why this Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert is an absolute favorite. First of all, it’s a no-bake recipe, meaning there’s no oven required, and you can prepare it in just a few simple steps. All you need is a mixer, a few pantry staples, and a little patience while it chills in the refrigerator.

The layers of whipped cream and dulce de leche create a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet, slightly crunchy Maria cookies. It’s a dessert that’s not too heavy but also satisfying enough to curb any dessert craving. The best part is, it looks as beautiful as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ¾ cups (400 ml) heavy whipping cream: Make sure it’s cold. This will form the base of the creamy layers of your dessert.

2 packs of Maria cookies: These are sweet, crunchy cookies that add the perfect texture contrast to the smooth and creamy layers. If you can’t find Maria cookies, you can substitute with any plain, crisp cookies.

14 oz (400 g) dulce de leche: This is the star of the dessert! Dulce de leche is a sweet, caramelized milk spread that adds richness and sweetness. You can find it in most grocery stores or make it yourself if you’re feeling adventurous.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start by whipping the heavy cream in a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Be sure the cream is very cold for the best results. Begin on low speed, then gradually increase the speed to medium-high. Beat the cream until it thickens and forms firm peaks. This will give you a nice, fluffy texture that’s essential for the layers.

Be cautious not to overwhip the cream. If you whip it too long, it will start to separate and turn into butter. To check for the right consistency, lift the beaters from the cream. The peaks should stand up straight without falling over.

Step 2: Combine the Whipped Cream and Dulce de Leche

Once the cream is whipped, it’s time to add the dulce de leche. Gently spoon the dulce de leche into the whipped cream and continue to beat the mixture until it’s well combined. The goal here is to keep the mixture light and airy while ensuring the dulce de leche is fully incorporated into the cream. You should have a smooth, thick mixture that forms stiff peaks when you lift the mixer.

The combination of the whipped cream and dulce de leche creates a luscious, sweet filling that’s the foundation of this dessert.

Step 3: Layer the Dessert

Now that your creamy mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the dessert. For this, you’ll need a serving dish—either a large trifle dish, a 9×9-inch baking dish, or individual cups. The layers will create a beautiful presentation, so a clear dish works best, allowing the layers to show through.

Start by placing a layer of Maria cookies at the bottom of the dish. Arrange them neatly, ensuring that the entire bottom surface is covered. You might need to break some cookies in half to fit the edges or corners of your dish.

Next, spoon a generous amount of the whipped cream and dulce de leche mixture over the cookies. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, making sure to cover all the cookies. Repeat this process, layering cookies and cream until you run out of ingredients. Finish with a final layer of the whipped cream mixture on top.

Step 4: Chill the Dessert

Once the dessert is assembled, cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set. The longer it chills, the better the layers will firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

For the best results, consider refrigerating the dessert overnight. This allows the layers to become fully integrated, creating a smoother and more flavorful dessert.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dessert has had time to chill, it’s ready to be served. To add an extra touch of sweetness, you can top the dessert with a dusting of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or even crushed nuts for a bit of texture. If you’re feeling fancy, serve the dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries for a burst of freshness.

Use a sharp knife or spoon to cut the dessert into squares or scoop individual portions. Each bite will offer a delightful combination of creamy, sweet layers with the crunch of the cookies, making it an irresistible treat.

Tips for the Perfect Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert

Use Cold Cream: Make sure your heavy whipping cream is as cold as possible before whipping. This helps it whip up to a firmer texture and prevents it from turning into butter.

Layer Evenly: Take your time to ensure each layer of cookies is evenly covered with the cream mixture. This creates a more visually appealing dessert and ensures every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.

Chill Well: Don’t rush the chilling process! For the best texture and flavor, allow the dessert to set in the fridge for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal.

Variation: If you want to add a little extra flavor to the dessert, you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or cocoa powder into the cream mixture. Alternatively, you can add a layer of chopped fruit, such as bananas or strawberries, between the cookie layers for added freshness.

Substitutions: If you can’t find Maria cookies, you can substitute them with any plain, crisp cookie, like Digestive biscuits or even graham crackers. Just keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly, but the texture will still be similar.

Why This Dessert Works

This Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert works because it balances a variety of textures and flavors. The creamy whipped mixture is rich and smooth, while the cookies provide just the right amount of crunch. The sweetness of the dulce de leche adds a caramelized richness, while the whipped cream keeps it light and airy.

Because it’s a no-bake dessert, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.

Conclusion

The Maria Cookie and Dulce de Leche Layered Dessert is a showstopper that’s simple to make but delivers a lot of flavor. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, this dessert is sure to please. It combines the sweetness of dulce de leche with the airy texture of whipped cream, all nestled between crunchy Maria cookies. Serve it at your next family gathering or simply enjoy it at home with a cup of tea. Either way, it’s a dessert that’s bound to become a favorite.

Now that you have the recipe and the tips, it’s time to get started. Whip up this decadent dessert today and enjoy every creamy, sweet bite!

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