Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chilled Sweet Cream Pave?
It is a refreshing, layered frozen dessert made with milk-soaked graham crackers, a whipped cream mixture, and boiled sweetened condensed milk.
How do you pronounce Pave?
It is pronounced pah-vay.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
How long does the condensed milk need to boil?
The unopened can of sweetened condensed milk must be boiled for 1.5 hours while fully submerged in water.
Why must the can be submerged in water while boiling?
Ensuring the can is submerged at all times is a safety precaution and ensures even cooking of the milk into a caramel-like consistency.
What are the main ingredients for the cream mixture?
The mixture consists of butter or margarine, sugar, and a 12-ounce container of whipped topping.
What is the purpose of soaking the graham crackers in milk?
Dipping the crackers in milk ensures they become soft and create a luscious, cake-like texture once frozen.
How long should the graham crackers be soaked?
They should be dipped quickly so they are soaked but not soggy.
How many layers of graham crackers are used?
The dessert features three distinct layers of soaked graham crackers.
What goes on the very top of the dessert?
The top layer consists of the boiled and cooled sweetened condensed milk, followed by optional crushed cashews.
How long does the Pave need to freeze?
It should be frozen overnight, or for at least 8 hours, before serving.
Should the dessert be served frozen or thawed?
It is intended to be sliced and served frozen for the best experience.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 2 teaspoons of butter or margarine.
What kind of dish is best for this recipe?
A square or rectangular shallow casserole dish is recommended.
Are nuts mandatory for this recipe?
No, crushed cashews are optional and used mainly for added texture and crunch.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe is categorized under Frozen Desserts.
How much sugar is added to the recipe?
Only 2 teaspoons of sugar are added to the whipped mixture.
What size can of sweetened condensed milk is needed?
You will need one 14-ounce can.
Do I need to stir the boiled condensed milk?
Yes, once the can is cooled and opened, stir it gently to loosen it before pouring it over the crackers.
Can I make this dessert the same day I want to serve it?
It is best to make it the day before as it requires at least 8 hours of freezing time.
Is a hand mixer required?
A hand mixer is recommended for a creamy blend, though a whisk can also be used.
How should I store the Pave?
Keep it in the freezer covered with plastic wrap until you are ready to serve.
What makes this dessert a good companion for spicy meals?
The chilled, sweet, and creamy profile helps cool down the palate after eating spicy food.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 7 ingredients in total, including the optional cashews and the milk for soaking.
What size box of graham crackers is needed?
A 14.5-ounce box of graham crackers is required.
Can I use a different type of nut?
While cashews are suggested, you can substitute them with other crushed nuts or omit them entirely.
Should the condensed milk be hot when poured?
No, the boiled can should be allowed to cool to room temperature before opening and pouring.
How many layers of whipped topping mixture are there?
There are two layers of the whipped topping mixture spread between the graham cracker layers.
Where did this recipe originate?
The recipe was shared by the creator's high school Spanish teacher.
What texture should the whipped mixture have?
It should be well blended and creamy after mixing the butter, sugar, and whipped topping.