Pave
A creamy layered dessert with graham crackers and caramelized plantains, offering a rich and sweet flavor profile perfect for those craving comfort food or festive treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel plantains and grill until tender or place in a glass bowl with a lid and microwave for approximately 4 minutes each.
- Alternatively, peel and slice the plantains and deep fry until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed milk, milk, and eggs; whisk until well blended.
- Layer graham crackers in a serving dish, then add a layer of the plantains and the milk mixture.
- Repeat layers as desired, ending with a layer of graham crackers.
- Top with whipped cream and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk. You can also substitute the graham crackers with crushed digestive biscuits for a different texture. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the milk mixture. Ensure the plantains are ripe for better sweetness and flavor, as they add a lovely balance to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Pave is delightful on its own, but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit like berries or a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. It can also be enjoyed after a hearty main course like Creole Venison Stew for a satisfying finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers will continue to meld in the fridge, enhancing the flavors. If you want to reheat it, serve it chilled as it's best enjoyed cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pave contains roughly 1164 calories, with 20g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (78% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1010mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of plantains?
Yes, you can substitute plantains with other fruits like bananas or mangoes. However, the texture and flavor will differ, so choose fruits that are ripe and sweet to maintain the dessert's richness.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or crushed gluten-free biscuits to keep the layers intact without compromising on flavor. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
How can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the Pave a day ahead of time. Assemble the layers and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and the dessert to set properly, giving you a delicious treat ready to serve when needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).