The sweet and indulgent world of Etonian mess, where crushed meringues, whipped cream, and juicy fruit come together to create a dessert that’s as heavenly as it is addictive. This classic British treat has been a staple at garden parties and summer gatherings for generations, but we’ve taken the liberty of elevating it to new heights with our 19 decadent Etonian mess recipes.
From classic combinations like strawberries and cream to bold twists like raspberry and white chocolate or lemon curd and meringue, each of these show-stopping desserts is a masterclass in sweet sophistication. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert to serve at your next dinner party or a unique treat to surprise your loved ones with, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a journey through our 19 mouthwatering Etonian mess recipes, each one more irresistible than the last. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet life, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these show-stopping desserts!
Classic Eton Mess with Fresh Strawberries
Elegant yet effortless, this iconic British dessert is a perfect showcase for seasonal strawberries.
Ingredients:
– 250g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 300g meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
– 150ml whipping cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until well combined.
3. Crush the meringue cookies into small pieces in a separate bowl.
4. Fold the whipped cream mixture into the crushed meringues until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries, being careful not to crush them.
6. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large glass bowl.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Raspberry and White Chocolate Eton Mess
Raspberry and White Chocolate Eton Mess: A Classic Twist
This sweet treat combines the tartness of raspberries with the creaminess of white chocolate, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 cup heavy whipped cream
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup crushed meringue cookies (such as Eton Mess)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Fold the melted white chocolate into the whipped cream until combined.
4. Gently fold in the crushed meringue cookies and granulated sugar.
5. Arrange the fresh raspberries on top of the mixture.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Curd Eton Mess with Meringue
This delightful dessert combines the tangy sweetness of lemon curd with the airy lightness of meringue, all wrapped up in a crunchy cookie crust. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) digestive biscuits, crushed
– 2 cups (400ml) heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup (250g) meringue cookies, crumbled
– 1/2 cup (120g) lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crush the biscuits and mix with 1 tablespoon of sugar.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
3. Top with whipped cream and crumbled meringue cookies.
4. Drizzle lemon curd over the top, allowing it to pool slightly.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving.
Blueberry and Lavender Eton Mess
A sweet and sophisticated twist on the classic Eton mess, this recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the subtle flavor of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– 1 cup meringue shards (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the blueberries and granulated sugar.
3. Add the lavender buds to the blueberry mixture and stir gently to combine.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the blueberry mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Break the meringue shards into small pieces and fold them into the blueberry mixture.
6. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time if desired)
Passion Fruit and Mango Eton Mess
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of passion fruit, topped with meringue and crunchy biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup passion fruit pulp
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 1/2 cups store-bought or homemade meringue cookies, crushed
– Whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix diced mango and passion fruit pulp with granulated sugar.
3. Fold whipped cream into the mango mixture until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Top each cup with crushed meringue cookies.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Black Forest Eton Mess with Cherries
This decadent dessert combines the rich flavors of black forest cake, creamy whipped cream, and sweet cherries to create an unforgettable treat. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crumbled Black Forest cake (or similar dark chocolate cake)
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 tablespoon cherry jam or preserves
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and mix until combined.
2. Fold crumbled Black Forest cake into the whipped cream until well combined.
3. Arrange cherries on top of the cake mixture.
4. Drizzle cherry jam or preserves over the cherries.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Peach Melba Eton Mess
Elevate the classic English dessert, Eton Mess, with a twist of juicy peaches and sweet melba sauce. This refreshing summer treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a delightful dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup melba sauce (see note)
– 12-16 meringue cookies, crushed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the mixed berries and diced peaches.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed meringue cookies and melba sauce.
4. Gently fold the cookie mixture into the whipped cream mixture.
5. Spoon the Eton Mess into individual serving dishes or glasses.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required! Assemble just before serving.
Pistachio and Rosewater Eton Mess
This classic British dessert gets a luxurious makeover with the addition of pistachios and rosewater, creating a unique flavor combination that’s both refreshing and decadent.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• 12-16 meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
3. Crush the meringue cookies into small pieces and fold them into the whipped cream mixture.
4. Stir in the chopped pistachios and rosewater.
5. Spoon the Eton Mess into individual serving glasses or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including whipping the cream)
Salted Caramel Eton Mess
Salted Caramel Eton Mess Recipe
A classic Eton mess dessert gets a decadent twist with the addition of salted caramel, creating a rich and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 12-16 meringue cookies, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
4. Stir in the salted caramel sauce until fully incorporated.
5. Gently fold in the crushed meringue cookies.
6. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Note: You can prepare the salted caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Chocolate Hazelnut Eton Mess
Eton Mess, a classic British dessert, gets a luxurious twist with the addition of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnuts. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the softened butter until well combined.
3. Crush the meringue cookies into fine crumbs and fold them into the whipped cream mixture.
4. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts.
5. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
7. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Rhubarb and Ginger Eton Mess
Eton mess, a British dessert classic, gets a sweet and tangy makeover with the addition of rhubarb and ginger. This refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup meringue cookies (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate pan, combine chopped rhubarb and crystallized ginger. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until rhubarb is tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Add sugar to the rhubarb mixture and stir until dissolved.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the cooled rhubarb mixture until well combined.
5. Crush meringue cookies in a plastic bag or place them in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
6. Layer the rhubarb-cream mixture, crushed meringues, and fresh mint leaves in small glasses or parfait dishes.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Banoffee Eton Mess with Toffee Sauce
A sweet twist on the classic Eton mess, this dessert combines crunchy meringue, creamy whipped cream, and caramelized bananas with a rich toffee sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup crushed meringue cookies
• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup toffee sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix crushed meringue cookies with sliced bananas and a pinch of salt.
3. Fold whipped cream into the meringue mixture until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Drizzle toffee sauce over the top and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep), no cooking required
Pomegranate and Mint Eton Mess
This sweet treat combines the tartness of pomegranate with the cooling freshness of mint, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice
– 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 cup crushed meringue cookies (Eton Mess-style)
Instructions:
1. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the mixed berries and granulated sugar.
3. Fold in the pomegranate juice and chopped fresh mint leaves into the berry mixture.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the berry mixture until combined.
5. Spoon the mixture into individual serving glasses or a large serving dish.
6. Top with crushed meringue cookies and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this dessert is best served chilled and fresh.
Apple Crumble Eton Mess
A twist on the classic Eton mess dessert, this Apple Crumble Eton Mess combines the crunch of a crumble topping with the sweetness of apples and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix together apple, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with crumble topping (oats, brown sugar, and melted butter).
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until apples are tender and crumble is golden brown.
4. Allow the dessert to cool slightly before whipping heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar.
5. Assemble the Eton mess by layering whipped cream, apple mixture, and crumble topping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Eton Mess
Elevate your dessert game with this creative twist on the classic Eton Mess. Layers of creamy mascarpone, crunchy biscuits, and sweet berries come together in a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed ladyfingers (such as Savoiardi)
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip mascarpone cheese with confectioner’s sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Fold in crushed ladyfingers to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix berries with granulated sugar.
4. Spoon half of the mascarpone mixture into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Top with half of the berry mixture.
6. Repeat layers.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Optional: top with whipped cream and additional berries.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (excluding chilling time)
Eton Mess Cheesecake Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this creative spin on the classic Eton mess. Layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberry compote, and crunchy meringue come together in a delightful parfait.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup strawberry compote (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup meringue cookies, crushed
– Fresh strawberries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Press into a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 10 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream and confectioners’ sugar; mix well.
3. Pour cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
4. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely. Assemble the parfait by layering cheesecake, strawberry compote, and crushed meringue in a glass or parfait dish.
5. Top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Cook Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including crust preparation)
Coconut and Lime Eton Mess
A refreshing twist on the classic English dessert, this Coconut and Lime Eton Mess combines sweet coconut cream with zesty lime and crushed biscuits for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 8-10 Digestive biscuits (or similar), crushed
– Fresh lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut, lime juice, and sugar until well combined.
3. Fold the coconut mixture into the whipped cream until smooth.
4. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Top with crushed biscuits and garnish with fresh lime wedges.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
Eton Mess Trifle with Custard
A classic British dessert that combines the freshness of meringue and whipped cream with the richness of custard, Eton Mess Trifle is a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup meringue shards
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the meringue shards and fresh raspberries.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, sugar, and salt.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens.
5. Assemble the trifle by layering the whipped cream mixture, followed by the custard, in a large serving dish or individual glasses.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (for the custard) + chilling time
Spiced Pumpkin Eton Mess
This seasonal take on the classic Eton mess dessert adds warm spices and the comforting flavor of pumpkin puree to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 12-16 Meringue cookies, crushed
– Fresh cranberries or chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Fold the pumpkin mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Gently fold in the crushed meringue cookies.
5. Spoon the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh cranberries or chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and decadent world of Etonian mess recipes! This classic British dessert gets a modern twist with 19 irresistible variations. From fresh strawberries to exotic flavors like passion fruit and mango, each recipe combines meringue, cream, and your choice of fruits, nuts, or chocolates for a show-stopping treat. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or bold flavor pairings, there’s an Etonian mess recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience!
