HAPPY LABAN

HAPPY LABAN is a easy Lebanese recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Village Food Channel on YouTube.

Prep: 29 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 10 min

Cost: $12.77 total, $2.13 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 piece Sponge Cake (store‑bought white forest cake, about 200 g, cut into two layers)
  • 200 ml Sweetened Condensed Milk (adds sweetness and moisture)
  • 200 ml Whipping Cream (chilled, to be whipped to stiff peaks)
  • 100 g Hazelnut Chocolate Spread (Happy Hazelnut Choco Spread, no added preservatives)
  • 30 g Unsalted Butter (for greasing the dish)
  • 30 g Pistachios, Shelled (roughly chopped for garnish)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional, for flavor)
  • 2 tbsp Powdered Sugar (optional, for dusting before serving)

Instructions

  1. Grease the Dish

    Lightly grease the rectangular baking dish with softened unsalted butter. For an even surface, you can line the bottom with parchment paper.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Prepare the Cake Layers

    Using a sharp knife, cut the store‑bought sponge cake horizontally into two equal layers.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Whip the Cream

    In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled whipping cream with vanilla extract. Beat with an electric hand mixer on medium‑high speed until stiff peaks form.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Fold in Condensed Milk

    Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

    Time: PT3M

  5. First Cake Layer & Hazelnut Spread

    Place the first cake layer on the greased dish. Spread half of the hazelnut chocolate spread evenly over the surface.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Add First Cream Layer

    Spoon half of the cream‑condensed milk mixture over the hazelnut spread and smooth it with a spatula.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Second Cake Layer & Remaining Fillings

    Place the second cake layer on top. Repeat by spreading the remaining hazelnut chocolate spread, then the rest of the cream mixture.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Chill to Set

    Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld and the dessert firms up.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 4°C

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped pistachios and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

    Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
18 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy, Tree nuts, Gluten

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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HAPPY LABAN

Recipe by Village Food Channel

A quick and easy Lebanese‑style layered dessert made with store‑bought sponge cake, whipped cream, sweetened condensed milk and a rich hazelnut chocolate spread. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet snack.

EasyLebaneseServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
59m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 9m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$12.77
Total cost
$2.13
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Greasing the dish to prevent sticking
  • Whipping the cream to stiff peaks
  • Chilling the assembled dessert for proper set

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp knife carefully when cutting the cake.
  • Do not over‑whip the cream; it can turn into butter.
  • Keep the chilled dessert refrigerated until ready to serve to avoid bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Labneh‑style desserts in Lebanese cuisine?

A

Labneh desserts trace back to traditional Lebanese dairy dishes where strained yogurt was sweetened and layered with nuts and syrups. Over time, modern versions incorporate cake, whipped cream, and chocolate spreads, blending old‑world flavors with contemporary convenience.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Labneh desserts in Lebanese cuisine?

A

In coastal Lebanon, Labneh desserts often feature rose water and pistachios, while inland versions may include orange blossom water and walnuts. Some regions add a thin layer of honey‑sweetened tahini for extra richness.

cultural
Q

How is Happy Labneh traditionally served in Lebanon?

A

Traditionally, it is cut into bite‑size squares, drizzled with a light honey or rose‑water syrup, and served chilled as a dessert after a main meal or during festive gatherings.

cultural
Q

On what occasions is Labneh dessert commonly enjoyed in Lebanese culture?

A

Labneh‑style desserts are popular at family celebrations, weddings, Ramadan iftar tables, and during the spring festivals of Easter and Easter Monday in Christian communities.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are used in traditional Lebanese Labneh desserts versus the Happy Labneh version?

A

Traditional recipes rely on fresh Labneh, honey, rose or orange blossom water, and toasted nuts. The Happy Labneh version substitutes Labneh with a sweetened whipped‑cream mixture and uses a hazelnut chocolate spread for a modern twist.

cultural
Q

What other Lebanese dishes pair well with Happy Labneh dessert?

A

Serve it alongside a light mint tea, fresh fruit salads with pomegranate, or a platter of baklava for a richer dessert spread.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Happy Labneh dessert at home?

A

Common errors include over‑whipping the cream, using a very moist cake that makes the layers soggy, and not chilling the dessert long enough for it to set properly.

technical
Q

Why does this Happy Labneh recipe use whipped cream mixed with condensed milk instead of a cooked custard?

A

The whipped‑cream method keeps the dessert no‑bake, preserving the light texture and allowing a quick preparation while still delivering a rich, sweet flavor that mimics a custard without the heat‑induced curdling risk.

technical
Q

Can I make Happy Labneh ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, assemble the dessert up to step 8, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Keep the pistachio garnish separate and add just before serving to retain crunch.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Happy Labneh is done?

A

The dessert should be firm enough to slice cleanly, with glossy layers of hazelnut spread and a smooth, creamy interior. The top should show a light dusting of powdered sugar and bright green pistachios.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Village Food Channel specialize in?

A

Village Food Channel focuses on simple, home‑style Indian and South‑Asian recipes that use readily available ingredients, often highlighting quick, budget‑friendly meals and traditional festive dishes.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Village Food Channel's approach to Lebanese‑style desserts differ from other cooking channels?

A

Village Food Channel blends authentic Lebanese flavors with Indian kitchen shortcuts, using store‑bought components like hazelnut chocolate spread to create a fast, no‑bake version that appeals to busy home cooks, unlike channels that stick to traditional, labor‑intensive methods.

channel

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