Brazilian Strawberry Pavê
Desserts

Brazilian Strawberry Pavê

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 29, 2026

A classic Brazilian layered dessert featuring silky condensed milk custard, lightly soaked ladyfingers and a vibrant strawberry jello topping. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep, it's the ultimate no-bake crowd-pleaser for gatherings, celebrations or a sweet weeknight indulgence.

Prep⏱️ 10 min
Servings👥 6 servings
Difficulty📊 Very Easy
↓ Jump to Recipe Pin it
Pinterest WhatsApp Facebook

🛒 Ingredients

6 servings

6
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz / 395 g)
  • 1¾ cups whole milk
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 7 oz (200 g) heavy cream
  • 1 package ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
  • 1 package strawberry jello (3 oz / 85 g)
  • 1 lb (500 g) fresh strawberries

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium saucepan off the heat, whisk together the condensed milk, milk, egg yolk and cornstarch until completely smooth.

  2. 2

    Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a soft, spoonable custard. Remove from heat.

  3. 3

    Let the custard cool for 10 minutes, then gently fold in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.

  4. 4

    Quickly dip each ladyfinger into cold milk to moisten — a brief dip only, so they stay structured.

  5. 5

    In a rectangular dish, build alternating layers of moistened ladyfingers and custard cream, finishing with a cream layer.

  6. 6

    Prepare the strawberry jello according to package directions. Set aside to cool to room temperature.

  7. 7

    Hull and slice the strawberries, then arrange them evenly over the top of the assembled dessert.

  8. 8

    Pour the cooled (still liquid) jello over the strawberries and refrigerate for at least 3 hours until fully set.

💡 Chef's Tip

Make this dessert the night before serving — overnight chilling lets every layer meld together perfectly. You can swap ladyfingers for graham crackers for a slightly crunchier texture.