Chantilly Lili Recipe

Name: Chantilly Lili Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 cups whole milk; 1/3 cup sugar; 3 large egg yolks; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract; 1/4 teaspoon fine salt; 8 oz strawberries, sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar (for macerating strawberries); Zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 ripe banana, sliced; Crushed vanilla wafers (or cookies of choice); 1 cup heavy cream, cold; 2 tablespoons sugar (for whipped cream); 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract (for whipped cream); Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish); Passion fruit (optional, for garnish)

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This Chantilly Lili recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s an elegant reimagination of classic Southern banana pudding layered with strawberries, silky vanilla cream, and whipped Chantilly topping. It’s fresh, fruity, and no-bake, making it the perfect make-ahead treat for parties, showers, or any sweet celebration. In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to make this crowd-pleaser at home, plus pro tips, variations, and serving ideas. If you’re a fan of desserts like Strawberry Icebox Cake or Lemon Tiramisu, you’re going to fall in love with this layered beauty.

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The Charm of chantilly lili recipe

The Chantilly Lili recipe is a fresh, modern dessert that pays homage to the beloved banana pudding, elevated with layers of vanilla pudding, juicy strawberries, and soft whipped cream. Named after Princess Lilibet and popularized by Meghan Markle’s family, this dessert has gone viral for its nostalgic roots and stunning presentation. It’s both comforting and chic—served in individual glasses and built from scratch with real ingredients.

A Sweet Tribute to Tradition with a Modern Twist

At its heart, chantilly lili recipe blends old-fashioned flavors with contemporary flair. While traditional banana pudding might rely on boxed mix or Cool Whip, this upgraded version features homemade vanilla pudding thickened with cornstarch and rich egg yolks. The fruit element goes beyond just bananas: strawberries, lemon zest, and even optional passion fruit add brightness and tang. Topped with airy Chantilly cream, it’s simple yet show-stopping.

Meghan Markle’s Touch: The Royal Influence Behind the Dish

This dessert’s resurgence comes from its royal association—Meghan Markle’s version is inspired by her grandmother’s banana pudding but modernized with personal twists like passion fruit from her own garden. It’s a beautiful nod to tradition that feels upscale without being fussy. And yes, it’s just as photogenic as it is delicious.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Core Components: Pudding, Cream, and Fruit

Every layer of this dessert has a purpose, and the beauty lies in its simplicity:

Ingredient	Purpose
Cornstarch & Milk	For thickening smooth vanilla pudding
Egg Yolks & Butter	Add richness and body
Strawberries & Banana	Fresh fruit contrast to creaminess
Crushed Vanilla Wafers	Crunchy base and top layer
Heavy Cream & Sugar	Whipped into soft Chantilly peaks
Lemon Zest & Juice	Brightens fruit and balances sweetness

A few optional extras—like passion fruit seeds or mint leaves—take the look and flavor even further.

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter in No-Bake Desserts

Since nothing is baked, the quality of each ingredient shines through. Use ripe (but firm) bananas and bright, juicy strawberries. Real vanilla extract or paste makes a huge difference in both the pudding and whipped cream. Always opt for full-fat milk and fresh eggs when possible—these small choices add up to a velvety, flavorful finish.

Kitchen Equipment That Simplifies the Process

Here’s what you’ll need to whip this up with ease:

Medium saucepan and whisk (for pudding)
Hand mixer or whisk (for cream)
Sharp knife and board (for fruit)
Dessert glasses or mini jars (for serving)
Mixing bowls and spatula

For another make-ahead-friendly treat that’s just as easy to serve in cups, check out this Mini Cannoli Cups Recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making chantilly lili recipe

How to Prepare the Homemade Vanilla Pudding

Start by whisking cornstarch and a small amount of milk into a smooth slurry. In a saucepan, combine sugar, egg yolks, and remaining milk. Stir in the slurry and cook over medium heat, whisking until it thickens—around 7 to 8 minutes. Once bubbly and smooth, remove from heat and mix in butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Macerating the Strawberries for Maximum Flavor

While the pudding chills, slice the strawberries and toss them with a tablespoon of sugar, fresh lemon zest, and a bit of lemon juice. Let them rest at room temp for about 30 minutes to develop a sweet syrup. This step deepens their flavor and makes them extra juicy.

Whipping Chantilly Cream to the Perfect Texture

In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form—don’t overdo it. The goal is light and airy, not stiff. Set it aside in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.

For another creamy dream dessert, take a peek at this Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe.

Creative Variations & Presentation Ideas

Fruit Swaps: Blueberries, Mango, and More

While the original Chantilly Lili recipe calls for strawberries and bananas, you’re not limited to just those. Blueberries, raspberries, mango, or even thin slices of kiwi can be layered for color and contrast. These fruits bring not just variety in flavor but also stunning visual appeal. You can mix and match based on what’s in season or your personal preference.

If you love versatile fruit-based sweets, you might also enjoy this refreshing Fruit Pizza Dessert, which uses a medley of fresh fruits over a soft cookie crust.

Crushed vanilla wafers are classic, but you can get creative here too. Try graham crackers for a honeyed crunch, amaretti cookies for almond undertones, or digestive biscuits for a lightly sweet, buttery base. You could even go bold with chocolate cookies or ginger snaps for contrast. Toasting the crumbs for a few minutes adds an irresistible nutty depth.

Decorative Toppings That Wow Guests

Want to impress? Garnish each serving with a mint sprig, a few passion fruit seeds, or a dusting of crushed freeze-dried fruit. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate or add edible flowers for a showstopping dessert table centerpiece. Presentation matters, and these little touches elevate your dish from sweet treat to event-worthy dessert.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Strategy

How Long Does chantilly lili recipe Last in the Fridge?

If you’re preparing this for a party or event, you’ll be glad to know you can store fully assembled chantilly lili recipe desserts for up to 1 day in the fridge. However, the textures are at their best when freshly assembled—the cookies soften, and the fruit stays vibrant.

Can You Freeze It? Pros and Cons

Technically, freezing is possible, but not recommended. The pudding may separate, and the whipped cream can lose its texture. Additionally, the fruit can become watery once thawed. Instead, prep the layers (pudding, cream, fruit) ahead and assemble just before serving.

Best Practices for Serving It Fresh Every Time

Chill pudding completely before assembling
Slice bananas last to prevent browning
Layer just before serving for crisp texture
Keep dessert cups cold until presentation time

For more ideas on cool, make-ahead desserts, check out this No-Bake Strawberry Delight that also layers creamy textures and fresh fruit.

What to Serve with chantilly lili recipe

Beverage Pairings: Coffee, Wine, or Tea?

A luxurious dessert like this pairs well with simple sips. Try a smooth espresso, a cup of herbal mint tea, or a chilled glass of Moscato or Riesling. The floral and citrusy notes enhance the fruit layers beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a lavender lemonade or fruit spritzer will complement the dessert’s brightness.

Complementary Sweets and Bites

Want to build a dessert table around this dish? Serve it with buttery Shortbread Cookies or crisp biscotti. Light, dry cookies provide a perfect contrast to the creaminess and fruitiness of chantilly lili recipe.

Turning It Into a Brunch or Party Showstopper

Whether you’re hosting a baby shower or an elegant brunch, this recipe shines in individual glass jars or cups. Display them on a tiered stand or tray and garnish just before serving for a picture-perfect finish. You can even let guests build their own layers for a fun, interactive element.

FAQs About Chantilly Lili Recipe

Can I Make Chantilly Lili Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the homemade pudding and the whipped Chantilly cream up to 2 days in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Slice the bananas and assemble the layers only right before serving to keep the texture and appearance fresh.

Is It Possible to Use Store-Bought Pudding?

You can use store-bought vanilla pudding in a pinch, but it’s not the same. The homemade pudding in this recipe is what gives it that luscious, creamy base and elevates it beyond your everyday dessert. If time allows, go the extra step—you’ll taste the difference.

What’s the Best Cookie Base for This Dessert?

Vanilla wafers are the classic choice, but other options work beautifully too. Try graham crackers for a honey flavor, gingersnaps for spice, or amaretti cookies for a hint of almond. Each one adds its own unique texture and taste.

Conclusion

chantilly lili recipe isn’t just another banana pudding—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and nostalgia, all layered into a pretty glass. This elegant no-bake dessert strikes the perfect balance between creamy and fruity, sweet and tangy. Whether you’re serving it for a baby shower, dinner party, or cozy weekend treat, its beauty and flavor will leave a lasting impression.

Want more no-bake treats that wow with minimal effort? Check out this easy Tiramisu Truffles Recipe next!

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