Brazilian Pavê

Brazilian Pavê

Pavê is a classic Brazilian layered dessert that combines silky, sweet custard with tender, brandy-soaked tea biscuits and airy whipped cream. Each layer is topped with rich dark chocolate, creating a harmonious mix of creamy, boozy, and slightly crunchy textures. Distinctive for its effortless elegance and comforting sweetness, this chilled treat is a festive favorite, perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or special celebrations.

Ingredients:

For the Custard:

• 2 (14 oz or 397 g) cans sweetened condensed milk
• 4 cups (946.5 ml) whole milk
• 5 egg yolks
• 3 tbsp (44 ml) cornstarch
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) vanilla paste
• Pinch of salt

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 ½ (355 ml) cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tbsp (44 ml) powdered sugar
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) vanilla paste

For Assembly:

• 30-45 rectangular tea biscuits
• 1 cup (237 ml) whole milk
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) brandy
• Dark chocolate bar

Method:

Make the Custard:

Mix together the sweetened condensed milk, 3 cups milk, egg yolks, vanilla paste, and pinch of salt in a saucepan. Place over medium low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until it comes up to a simmer.

Stir together the cornstarch and remaining 1 cup (237 ml) milk and add to the pot. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Let cool.

Make the Whipped Cream:

Add the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla paste to a bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whisk on medium speed until stiff peaks form.

Make the Pavê:

Pour 1/3 of the custard into the bottom of a 9 by 12 inch (22.9 by 30.5 cm) baking dish and flatten with a spatula. Mix together the milk and brandy. Quickly dip tea biscuits in the mixture and arrange them in a layer on top of the custard. Grate a layer of dark chocolate over the biscuits. Repeat to form 2 more layers.

Spread the whipped cream on top of the final layer of biscuits. Grate over dark chocolate, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Serve chilled.