Chantilly Lili Recipe – Light, Creamy, and Easy to Make

Chantilly Lili Recipe is a luscious whipped‑cream dessert infused with vanilla (and optional citrus zest) that you can whip up in under 15 minutes, no baking required! This light‑as‑air treat layers silky Chantilly cream with fresh fruit and crunchy toppings, making it both stunning and satisfyingly simple.

Ready to learn how to transform three pantry‑staple ingredients into a cloud‑like confection? Let’s get started!

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What Is Chantilly Lili?

Ever wondered why this dreamy dessert bears the whimsical name “Chantilly Lili”? Did a pastry chef invent it to woo a certain Lili, or was it simply a playful riff on elegant Chantilly lace? While no one knows for sure, there’s a cheeky anecdote that a lovestruck cook once said, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” after winning Lili over with a perfect swirl of sweetened cream.

Whether you believe the romantic lore or not, the name stuck—and now it’s your turn to learn its secrets. Ready to whisk up some magic? Give this recipe a try and write your own Chantilly Lili love story!

Why You’ll Love This Chantilly Lili Recipe

  • Cloud‑Like Texture: With just heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, you’ll achieve lofty peaks that melt on your tongue.
  • Wallet‑Friendly: Skip the patisserie price tag—this dessert costs pennies per serving.
  • Endless Variations: Top with seasonal berries, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for your signature spin.
chantilly lili recipe served with berries and cream in a cozy homemade setting
A creamy and fluffy Chantilly Lili dessert, made at home and topped with fresh fruit

If you loved the cozy warmth of our Amish Apple Cake, you’ll appreciate the light contrast of Chantilly Lili. Try both and discover your favorite—then come back for more recipes!

Feeling inspired? Let’s dive into the ingredient list!

Key Ingredients for Chantilly Lili Recipe

  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, well‑chilled
  • ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (or ½ tsp vanilla bean paste)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
  • Toasted almond slices or pistachios, for garnish
  • Dark chocolate shavings or warm ganache (optional)

How to Make Chantilly Lili

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Chantilly Lili Recipe

Chantilly Lili Recipe


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5 from 1 review

  • Author: Ruthie
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy and elegant Chantilly Lili recipe, made with vanilla whipped cream and fresh berries, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Chopped nuts (optional)
  • Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chill mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for 15 minutes.
  2. Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl.
  3. Whip the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
  4. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
  5. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overwhip.
  6. Spoon or pipe the Chantilly cream into serving glasses.
  7. Top with fresh berries, nuts, and chocolate shavings as desired.
  8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Notes

Use cold cream for best whipping results. Adjust sugar to taste depending on sweetness of berries.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 glass
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 25mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

What to Serve with Chantilly Lili

  • Fresh stone fruits: Peaches or nectarines drizzled with a touch of honey.
  • Chocolate pairings: Warm brownies or a petit fondant for indulgence.
  • Light biscuits: Madeleines or buttery tea biscuits for dipping.
  • Drinks: Sparkling Prosecco, iced jasmine tea, or a fruity mocktail.

Top Tips for Perfecting Chantilly Lili

Homemade Chantilly Lili Recipe
Homemade Chantilly Lili Recipe
  • Keep it cold. Cold cream and tools = faster whipping and stronger peaks.
  • Quality matters. Use cream with ≥36% fat for the best volume and taste.
  • Adjust sweetness. Taste as you go—add more sugar if you like it sweeter.
  • Flavor twists. Swap vanilla for almond extract or try orange zest in winter.
  • Rescue overwhipped cream. Fold in 2 Tbsp fresh cream by hand to soften.

Storing and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 24 hours; re‑whisk briefly to refresh peaks.
  • Freezing: Not recommended—texture degrades.
  • Reviving: If liquid separates, whisk gently by hand until light and fluffy again.

Final Thoughts

This chantilly lili recipe proves that extraordinary desserts can be effortless. With just three base ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll wow everyone from your family to your most discerning dinner guests. Bookmark this recipe, try those flavor variations, and remember—every great dish tells a story. What will yours be?

FAQs

What’s the difference between Chantilly cream and whipped cream?

Chantilly cream is simply sweetened whipped cream flavored with vanilla (and sometimes citrus), whereas plain whipped cream has no added flavors.

Can I prepare Chantilly Lili in advance?

You can whip and refrigerate it up to 24 hours ahead, but it’s always best fresh for maximum fluff.

Is Chantilly Lili the same as Chantilly lace cake?

No—Chantilly lace cake involves a baked sponge and special icing technique. For a great lace cake recipe, check out our Pinterest board!

Enjoyed this recipe? Visit us on Medium or follow our Pinterest for daily baking ideas and classic comfort‑food recipes!

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