Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bavarian Cream is a classic dessert known for its smooth texture and decadent flavor. The combination of rich egg yolks, sweetened milk, and gelatin creates a custard-like base, while the whipped cream adds a light, airy texture. Topped with fresh berries, this dessert is not only a visual treat but also a perfect balance of flavors—creamy, sweet, and refreshing. It’s easy to prepare in advance, which makes it an excellent choice for hosting stress-free gatherings while still offering something indulgent.

Ingredients

3 egg yolks
¾ cup sugar
1 tablespoon powdered gelatin
1 cup milk
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh berries (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.) Bavarian Cream and Berries

Directions

Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the egg yolks and sugar. Beat with an electric hand mixer until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
Dissolve Gelatin:
In a jug, mix 8 tablespoons of freshly boiled water with the powdered gelatin. Stir until dissolved, then set aside.
Heat the Milk:
Add the milk and vanilla extract to a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches a boil.
Temper the Eggs:
Slowly add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Gradually add the entire milk mixture to the egg yolks.
Cook the Mixture:
Pour the egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes while whisking to thicken slightly.
Add Gelatin:
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the dissolved gelatin mixture. Stir well to combine and dissolve the gelatin into the custard.
Cool and Fold in Whipped Cream:
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. Grease dessert molds with butter or oil. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cooled custard mixture.
Chill:
Pour the Bavarian cream mixture into the molds and chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
Serve:
To serve, turn the Bavarian cream out onto plates. If the cream is stuck, briefly dip the molds in hot water to loosen. Garnish with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)

Variations

Flavor Variations: You can infuse the cream with other flavors such as orange zest, lemon zest, or a few tablespoons of coffee or liqueurs like Grand Marnier for a more complex taste.
Fruit Toppings: While berries are a perfect complement, you can also top the Bavarian cream with other fruits like mango, peaches, or kiwi for a tropical twist.
Chocolate Bavarian Cream: Add melted chocolate to the custard mixture before folding in the whipped cream to create a delicious chocolate version of this dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Bavarian cream in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for the freshest flavor and texture.
Freezing: While this dessert is best fresh, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert without gelatin?

If you prefer to make it without gelatin, you can substitute it with agar-agar or use a different setting agent like pectin, but you’ll need to adjust the quantities and setting instructions accordingly.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use alternative milks like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of this dessert. Just be sure to check that your milk alternative is unsweetened.

Can I add a different flavor to the custard?

Absolutely! You can infuse the milk with flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla bean for a more complex taste. Simply add the spices while heating the milk and strain them out before adding to the egg yolks.

How do I prevent the egg yolks from scrambling when adding the hot milk?

To prevent the eggs from scrambling, add the hot milk gradually to the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This process is called “tempering,” which slowly raises the temperature of the eggs and prevents them from cooking too quickly.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use whipped topping instead of heavy cream, but the texture may be less creamy and rich. Using real whipped cream will provide the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes! In fact, Bavarian cream needs to chill and set for at least 6 hours or overnight, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert for a dinner party or special occasion.

What if my Bavarian cream doesn’t set properly?

If your Bavarian cream doesn’t set, it may be due to not fully dissolving the gelatin or not allowing enough chilling time. Make sure the gelatin is properly dissolved, and give it sufficient time to set in the fridge.

How can I make this dessert more decadent?

For a richer version, you can add a few tablespoons of mascarpone cheese to the custard mixture or top the Bavarian cream with a drizzle of chocolate ganache.

Conclusion

Bavarian Cream and Berries is a refined and delicious dessert that combines smooth custard with fresh, vibrant fruit. The creaminess of the Bavarian cream pairs perfectly with the bright and tart berries, making each bite an indulgent and refreshing treat. Whether for a special occasion or a quiet evening, this elegant dessert is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy the luxury of homemade Bavarian cream topped with the freshest berries!

Bavarian Cream and Berries

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Bavarian Cream and Berries is a luxurious dessert featuring a rich, creamy custard base infused with vanilla and optional cardamom, topped with fresh berries. This elegant treat is perfect for special occasions and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Chilling, Cooking
Cuisine: French, International

Ingredients

3 egg yolks

¾ cup sugar

1 tablespoon powdered gelatin

1 cup milk

1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup heavy cream

Fresh berries (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a bowl, combine egg yolks and sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy.
In a jug, mix 8 tablespoons of freshly boiled water with the powdered gelatin. Stir until dissolved, then set aside.
In a saucepan, heat milk and vanilla extract over medium heat until boiling.
Slowly add hot milk to egg mixture, whisking constantly. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 minutes to thicken.
Remove from heat and add dissolved gelatin, stirring until fully combined.
Allow to cool for 10 minutes. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and gently fold into the cooled custard.
Pour into molds, refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
To serve, turn out onto plates, garnish with fresh berries, and enjoy!