Homemade Harmony – December 10, 2025

A luscious, creamy dessert made with soft biscuits layered with velvety custard. This No-Bake Biscuit Pudding is indulgent yet effortless, perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or satisfying a sweet craving at any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: No baking, no special equipment, and no complicated techniques.

• Creamy and Comforting: Silky custard melds beautifully with soft biscuits.

• Versatile: Can be customized with chocolate, nuts, fruits, or kept classic.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for parties or family meals.

This dessert is reminiscent of trifle, tiramisu, and classic custard pudding — all in one simple, layered dish. Over time, the biscuits soak up the custard, creating a melt-in-your-mouth richness that is both nostalgic and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Custard Layer:

• 3 cups (700 ml) whole milk

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk

• 4 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup butter (optional, for extra richness)

For the Biscuit Layers:

• 2 packets digestive biscuits or graham crackers (or any plain tea biscuits you prefer)

For the Topping (Optional):

• Crushed biscuits or graham crackers

• Whipped cream

• Chocolate shavings

• Toasted nuts

• Cocoa powder

• Berries or sliced fruits

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Make the Creamy Custard Base

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sweetened condensed milk, and cornstarch until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps — this ensures your custard is silky.

2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or heat-resistant spatula. Gradually, the custard will thicken over 6–8 minutes.

3. Once it reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency and begins to bubble, remove from heat.

4. Stir in vanilla extract and butter (if using) to enhance the richness and silkiness.

5. Let the custard cool for 2–3 minutes before layering.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dish and Biscuits

• Choose a rectangular or square dish (approximately 8×8 inches) or a glass serving dish to showcase the layers.

• Lay the first layer of biscuits at the bottom. You can break biscuits to fill gaps, but there’s no need to dip them in milk — the warm custard will soften them naturally.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Spread a generous layer of warm custard over the biscuits. Smooth it evenly with a spatula.

2. Add another layer of biscuits on top of the custard.

3. Repeat the process, alternating custard and biscuits until all custard is used, finishing with a custard layer on top.

4. Smooth the top gently with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Final Topping

• Sprinkle crushed biscuits or graham crackers for texture.

• Optional toppings include chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, chopped pistachios, sliced toasted almonds, whipped cream, or fresh fruits.

• You can even drizzle caramel or honey for extra indulgence.

• Step 5: Refrigerate

  • Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.

  • Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

  • This allows the biscuits to fully soften and the flavors to meld.

  • Serve cold; the pudding should have a firm yet creamy consistency that holds its layers.

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  Tips for Perfect Biscuit Pudding

  1. Smooth Custard is Key: Make sure cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.

  2. Layering Matters: Even layers ensure a consistent texture in every bite.

  3. Use Warm Custard: Pouring warm custard over biscuits helps them soften naturally.

  4. Glass Dish for Presentation: A clear dish beautifully showcases the layered effect.

  5. Make Ahead: Chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.

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  Variations

  • Chocolate Biscuit Pudding: Add cocoa powder to the custard or drizzle chocolate ganache on top.

  • Nutty Delight: Layer with chopped almonds, pistachios, or walnuts.

  • Fruity Twist: Add fresh berries, mango slices, or banana between layers.

  • Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk, coconut cream, and vegan butter.

  • Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the custard for warmth.

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  Storage and Shelf Life

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Serving Tip: For the best texture, serve chilled straight from the fridge.

  • Freezing: Not recommended, as custard may separate when thawed.

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  Origin of the Recipe

  No-bake biscuit puddings have been enjoyed in various forms worldwide. They are inspired by European trifles and custard desserts but have been adapted in South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe for their simplicity and versatility. The use of condensed milk adds richness, creating a custard dessert reminiscent of refrigerator cakes and tea-time classics.

  Over the decades, this dessert became a beloved comfort food — ideal for hot days when oven-baked desserts are less appealing, or for festive occasions when a quick yet luxurious sweet is needed.

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  Presentation Ideas

  • Serve in individual glass cups for an elegant, café-style dessert.

  • Garnish with fresh berries or sliced fruits for a colorful touch.

  • Drizzle with chocolate or caramel for a more indulgent experience.

  • Dust with cocoa powder for a classic, minimalist look.

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  Recipe Details

  • Cuisine: International

  • Category: No-Bake Dessert

  • Servings: 8–10

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Chilling Time: 4 hours

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

  • Best Season: All year round, especially during warm weather or festive gatherings

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  Final Thoughts

  This No-Bake Biscuit Pudding combines simplicity, nostalgia, and decadence in one dessert. With its creamy custard, tender biscuits, and optional toppings, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion — from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.

  Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with chocolate, fruits, and nuts, this dessert promises a delightful, melt-in-the-mouth experience every time. Its easy preparation and no-bake convenience make it a must-have recipe in your dessert repertoire.

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