Creamy Strawberry Pavê with Milk Powder Custard
Desserts

Creamy Strawberry Pavê with Milk Powder Custard

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated September 28, 2026

A no-bake Brazilian-inspired layered dessert that brings together velvety milk powder custard, crisp butter cookies, and fresh strawberries. Effortless to assemble and perfect for any occasion — just prepare it the night before and let the fridge do the magic!

Prep⏱️ 60 min
Servings👥 8 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

8 servings

8
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz / 397 g)
  • 2 cans whole milk (using the condensed milk can as a measure)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup whole milk powder (approx. 3.5 oz / 100 g)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream (7 fl oz / 200 ml)
  • 1 package butter cookies or graham crackers
  • 1 lb (500 g) fresh strawberries
  • Milk powder for decoration

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium saucepan, combine the condensed milk and milk powder. Dissolve the cornstarch in the whole milk, add it to the pan and whisk until smooth.

  2. 2

    Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or silicone spatula, until the custard thickens and begins to bubble gently.

  3. 3

    Remove from heat and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.

  4. 4

    Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then fold in the heavy cream until smooth and silky.

  5. 5

    Wash, hull and slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces.

  6. 6

    Spread a generous layer of custard cream on the bottom of a rectangular serving dish.

  7. 7

    Arrange a layer of cookies on top, add another layer of cream, then scatter strawberry pieces evenly.

  8. 8

    Continue layering cookies, cream and strawberries until all ingredients are used.

  9. 9

    Finish with a smooth cream layer on top, arrange fresh strawberries decoratively and dust generously with milk powder.

  10. 10

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. Serve well chilled.

💡 Chef's Tip

Stir 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the custard while cooking for extra depth of flavour. Swap the butter cookies for speculoos biscuits for a warm, spiced variation.