Zen Berry Parfait Recipe

A Refreshing, Elegant Dessert with Layers of Flavor

Looking for a dessert that feels fancy, tastes delicious, and doesn’t take hours in the kitchen? The Zen Berry Parfait might be your next favorite. With soft sponge cake, a vibrant berry compote, and creamy layers of pastry cream — this dessert hits the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.

Perfect for:

• Home bakers trying new recipes

• Café owners curating a classy dessert menu

• Anyone who loves no-fuss but beautiful sweet treats

Best part? You can easily prep components in advance, use seasonal or frozen berries, and serve it in individual cups, jars, or trifle bowls.

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🍓 What Is a Parfait?

In the world of desserts, a parfait is a layered treat typically made with sponge, fruit, cream, and sometimes custard or compote. This Zen version combines flavors inspired by tiramisu and fruit mousse — but in a more customizable and eggless-friendly form.

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✅ Components You’ll Need:

1. Eggless Ladyfinger Sponge – light, buttery, and soaks up flavor

2. Cocoa Coffee Syrup – for depth and mocha richness

3. Mixed Berry Compote – adds brightness and tang

4. Light Pastry Cream – a whipped custard-like mousse

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🧁 Step-by-Step: How to Make Zen Berry Parfait

1. Eggless Ladyfinger Sponge (Base Layer)

This sponge is soft and delicate — the perfect base to soak up coffee and cocoa syrup.

Ingredients:

• 50g unsalted butter (softened)

• 45g castor sugar

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 30g plain curd (yogurt)

• 30ml water

• 100g all-purpose flour (maida)

• ¼ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp baking soda

• Pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 170°C and line a baking tray with parchment.

2. Cream together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.

3. Add curd, vanilla extract, and water. Mix until smooth.

4. Sift in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Fold gently to make a smooth batter.

5. Spread thinly on the tray and bake for 10–12 minutes or until light golden.

6. Let it cool completely, then cut to fit your serving glasses or jars.

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2. Cocoa Coffee Soaking Syrup

This syrup adds a mocha touch to your sponge.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tsp instant coffee powder

• ½ cup hot water

Steps:

1. Mix cocoa powder and coffee in hot water until fully dissolved.

2. Let it cool before using.

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3. Mixed Berry Compote

This sweet-tart layer adds freshness and contrast to the cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen mixed berries

• 3–4 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 2–3 tbsp water

• 1 tsp cornflour (optional, for thickness)

Steps:

1. Combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a saucepan.

2. Simmer gently until the berries soften and release juices.

3. If needed, add a cornflour slurry (1 tsp cornflour + water) and simmer to thicken.

4. Cool completely before layering.

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4. Light Pastry Cream (Mascarpone-Style)

This custard + whipped cream combo gives the richness of mascarpone with everyday ingredients.

For Custard Base:

• 250 ml full-fat milk

• 3 egg yolks (or 25g custard powder for eggless)

• 60g sugar

• 20g cornflour (if using egg yolks)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Whisk yolks (or custard powder), sugar, and cornflour with a splash of milk.

2. Heat remaining milk and gradually add it to the mix, whisking constantly.

3. Cook on low heat, stirring, until it thickens into a custard.

4. Stir in vanilla, cover with cling wrap (touching the surface), and cool fully.

For Whipped Cream:

• 100 ml cold whipping cream

• 1 tbsp icing sugar (optional)

Final Steps:

1. Whip cream to soft-medium peaks.

2. Gently fold into the cooled custard. Chill until ready to use.

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🥣 Assembling the Zen Berry Parfait

Step-by-step:

1. Layer 1: Add sponge at the bottom of your serving glass.

2. Brush/Soak: Lightly drizzle with the cocoa coffee syrup.

3. Layer 2: Spoon in a layer of chilled mixed berry compote.

4. Layer 3: Top with light pastry cream and smooth gently.

5. Repeat: Continue layers if your glass allows.

6. Garnish: Add fresh berries, grated chocolate, or mint leaves.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Individual jars – Great for portion control and make-ahead.

• Trifle bowl – A centerpiece-worthy dessert for parties.

• Mini cups – Perfect for cafés or tasting menus.

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💡 Expert Tips & Variations

• No frozen berries? Use fresh strawberries, blueberries, or cherries.

• Make-ahead friendly: The sponge and compote can be prepped and stored for 2–3 days.

• For more richness: Add a dash of orange zest or cinnamon to the berry compote.

• Vegan twist: Use dairy-free butter, curd, and whipped coconut cream.