
Napoleon in a Glass – The Lazy-Day Dessert That’s Irresistibly Good
Sometimes, you just need a dessert that feels fancy but requires almost zero effort. For me, this “Napoleon in a Glass” is the answer every time. It’s creamy, buttery, a little crunchy, and completely irresistible — the kind of sweet treat you can throw together in minutes, yet it tastes like you’ve been in the kitchen all day.
Honestly, it’s so good that every time I make it, I blink and it’s gone… usually within 2 minutes. And yes, I’m kicking myself for not photographing it the first time — because the way those layers look in the glass is pure dessert magic.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Effortless elegance — looks fancy, but you barely lift a finger.
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Perfect for any occasion — last-minute guests, birthdays, or “just because.”
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Minimal ingredients — pantry basics you probably already have.
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Make-ahead friendly — tastes even better chilled.
What It Tastes Like
This dessert is everything you love about Napoleon cake — silky custard, buttery layers, and a hint of sweetness — but in a simplified, deconstructed form. The crumbs bring a toasty, nutty flavor and gentle crunch, while the custard is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced.
Ingredients
For the crumbs:
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Leftover puff pastry or shortcrust pastry crumbs (or crushed tea biscuits)
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2–3 tablespoons sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the custard cream:
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½ cup sugar
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3 egg yolks
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2 cups milk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For assembly:
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Glasses or dessert cups
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Optional garnish: berries, grated chocolate, or a dusting of powdered sugar
Tools You’ll Need
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Non-stick pan
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Whisk
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Medium saucepan
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Mixing spoon
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Glass dessert cups
Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ons
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Pastry crumbs: Use crushed graham crackers, butter cookies, or digestive biscuits.
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Flavored cream: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a spoonful of sweetened condensed milk for richness.
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Garnish ideas: Top with fresh fruit, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts for extra flair.