Are you ready to indulge in a delightful Brazilian treat that will make your taste buds dance? I’m talking about Palha Italiana Tradicional! This sweet, creamy dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something sweet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your family and friends! Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as easy as my favorite easy pasta recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- Deliciously creamy and sweet, satisfying your dessert cravings.
- Great for family gatherings or as a sweet treat after a 30-minute meal.
- Can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Palha Italiana Tradicional, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of Maria cookies (or any similar biscuit)
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chocolate sprinkles
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious dessert! Follow these simple steps:
- Crush the Cookies: Start by placing the Maria cookies in a ziplock bag and crush them into small pieces. You want them to be crumbly but not dust.
- Mix the Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the Cookies: Gently fold the crushed cookies into the creamy mixture until well combined.
- Layer the Dessert: In a serving dish, layer the cookie mixture and sprinkle chocolate sprinkles on top. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sprinkles.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Palha Italiana is a hit:
- For a twist, try adding a layer of fruit, like bananas or strawberries, between the cookie layers.
- If you want a richer flavor, consider using chocolate cookies instead of Maria cookies.
- Make sure to chill the dessert long enough; this helps it set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings, such as nuts or coconut flakes!
How to Serve
When it comes to serving your Palha Italiana, presentation is key! Here are some ideas:
- Serve in individual cups for a fun and personal touch.
- Garnish with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge, but I doubt it will last that long because it’s so delicious!
So, whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy after a quick family dinner or a delightful dessert to impress your guests, this Palha Italiana Tradicional is the answer. It’s as easy as my favorite creamy garlic pasta recipe, and just as satisfying! Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy cooking!

Palha Italiana Tradicional
Ingredients
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- 2 cans leite condensado
- 2 tablespoons margarina ou manteiga
- 6 tablespoons chocolate em pó (preferencialmente 50% cacau)
- 2 packs biscoito maisena picado (400 g)
- to taste refined or powdered sugar Açúcar para polvilhar
Instructions
- In a pan, combine condensed milk, margarine, and chocolate, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat, add crushed cookies, and mix well until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pan, smooth the top, and let cool in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
- Cut into squares and dust with sugar before serving.