JUST DESSERTS

Can you feel it? Wait for it… listen… It’s the official countdown!

We’re heading straight into the festive season! Some say the year flew by, while others feel it dragged on. 

I’m on the fence and will sit this one out, but one thing’s for sure: the festive spirit is getting stronger. 

All I can think of is being home, soaking up the sun, sharing laughter with my family, and treating myself to a little indulgence… because I deserve it.

Honestly speaking, it has been a long year, and one of the most demanding years. Am I right in saying this year saw each and every one of us going through something, a challenge or two?

Some were lucky and dipped into challenges only to rise again, and some have just been facing challenges non-stop. 

But well, through it all, there is always a reason for a smile. Even if it means digging a little deeper.

When the year started, we made New Year’s resolutions. We planned our year, what we want to do, change, and achieve. 

As we head towards the end of the year, one can’t help but revisit those plans. 

Some were met, congratulations! And some were not, better luck next time. 

This year, I feel our strongest achievement has been simply keeping ourselves alive and sane.

But now, let’s take a deep breath, shake off the challenges, and step into the joy of the season.

The festive lights are twinkling, Christmas trees are up, and the Choice Assorted biscuits have hit the shelves. 

It’s a time to be merry, to share moments, and to indulge in the little pleasures that makes life feel special… and yes, to finally reach for those Shoprite stamps you’ve been saving!

And speaking of indulgence, what better way to celebrate than with a little something sweet?

This festive season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a few delightful dessert cups. 

Each one is a tiny celebration in itself, bright, creamy, rich, and full of flavour. 

So grab a spoon, relax, and let the festive flavours take you home.

Header: Tips for All Desserts

Use clear cups or containers for the best visual effect.

Repeat layers to fill the cup and create a striking appearance.

Chill for at least an hour before serving so layers set and flavours meld.

Garnish with fresh fruit, mint, chocolate shavings, or edible glitter for a festive touch.

Add contrasting textures, like biscuit crumbs or toasted nuts, between layers for extra bite.

Make each layer even - use a spoon or piping bag to keep desserts neat and visually appealing.

Milk Chocolate Mousse Cups with White Chocolate Shavings (See above)

A smooth, velvety chocolate treat that melts in your mouth. The rich milk chocolate mousse is light and airy, topped with delicate white chocolate shavings for a touch of elegance. Perfect for a little indulgence or to impress guests during the festive season.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

200g milk chocolate, melted

300ml whipping cream, lightly whipped

2-3 tbsp powdered sugar

White chocolate shavings, for garnish

Method

Whip the cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

Fold the melted milk chocolate gently into the whipped cream until smooth.

Spoon the mousse into serving glasses.

Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Top with white chocolate shavings just before serving.

Mixed Fruit Pavlova Cups

A light and refreshing dessert bursting with bright colours and fresh summer flavour. Crisp meringue, smooth custard and juicy fruit come together in soft, airy layers that taste like pure sunshine in a cup. Sweet, creamy and irresistibly beautiful for any celebration.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

4-5 small meringues, crushed

250ml custard

1 cup seasonal fruit (berries, kiwi, mango, or peach)

200ml whipping cream, lightly whipped

1-2 tbsp icing sugar

Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Method

Lightly whip the cream with icing sugar until soft peaks form.

In each cup, start with a layer of crushed meringue.

Add a layer of custard, followed by a layer of fruit.

Spoon a layer of whipped cream.

Repeat the layers until the cup is almost full.

Finish with a small dollop of cream and garnish with fruit and mint.

Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Banana and Toffee Pudding Cups

A rich and comforting treat filled with soft bananas, buttery biscuit crumbs and silky caramel custard. Every spoonful is sweet, creamy and full of warm, mellow flavour. It is a simple dessert that feels luxurious and always wins hearts at the table.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

2-3 ripe bananas, sliced

250ml caramel custard

100g biscuit crumbs (digestive or shortbread)

200ml whipping cream, lightly whipped

2 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

Method

Whip the cream with brown sugar until soft peaks form.

Begin layering in each cup: biscuit crumbs, next banana slices, then caramel custard and finally whipped cream. Repeat the layers.

Finish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of biscuit crumbs or caramel drizzle.

Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

Mini Lemon Cheesecake Cups

A bright and creamy delight with a buttery biscuit base and a smooth lemon cheesecake filling. The fresh lemon brings a lively, zesty flavour that lifts every bite. Soft, creamy and refreshing, this dessert is a joyful way to end any meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

100g digestive biscuits, crushed

2 tbsp melted butter

200g cream cheese

2-3 tbsp powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp lemon juice

100ml whipped cream

2-3 tbsp lemon curd

Method

Mix crushed biscuits with melted butter and spoon a layer into the bottom of each cup.

Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth.

Fold in the whipped cream to lighten the mixture.

Layer in each cup: biscuit base, lemon cheesecake next, then lemon curds and finally whipped cream.

Repeat layers as needed.

Finish with a drizzle of lemon curd or lemon zest.

Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.