A refreshing Middle Eastern–inspired dessert layered with creamy avocado sauce, vibrant strawberry sauce, fresh tropical fruits, and fragrant ashta cream. These elegant fruit cocktail cups are light yet indulgent, perfect for warm weather, gatherings, or a special finish to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is all about balance—fresh fruit, natural sweetness, and rich creaminess without feeling heavy. The contrasting layers make it visually stunning, while the flavors complement each other beautifully. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Avocado sauce:

• 2 large ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup cold full-cream milk

Strawberry sauce:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1/2 cup guava nectar
• 2 tablespoons honey

Ashta cream:

• 1 cup reduced fat cream or canned ashta
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon rose water

Fruit layers:

• 1 cup mango, diced
• 1 cup pineapple, diced
• 2 kiwifruit, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

Toppings:

• 1/4 cup whole almonds
• 1/4 cup shaved almonds
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons ground pistachios
• Honey, for drizzling

Directions

In a blender, combine the avocados, honey, and milk. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick yet spoonable. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate.

Clean the blender and add the strawberries, guava nectar, and honey. Blend until smooth and vibrant in color. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, then chill until ready to use.

In a medium bowl, combine the reduced fat cream or ashta, ricotta cheese, sugar, and rose water. Stir until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate.

Prepare all fruit by washing, peeling, slicing, and dicing as needed. Set aside along with the nuts and pistachios.

To assemble, divide the components between four clear dessert cups. For an avocado-focused version, start with avocado sauce, add mango, spoon over strawberry sauce, and repeat the layers. For a fruit-forward version, layer pineapple, kiwifruit, mango, and strawberries, then generously spoon strawberry sauce over the top.

Finish each cup with a generous spoonful of ashta cream. Sprinkle with almonds, pine nuts, and ground pistachios. Drizzle lightly with honey just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous dessert cups.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 15 minutes
Total time: approximately 35 minutes

Variations

You can swap the fruit based on what’s in season, such as peaches, grapes, or pomegranate seeds. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of ashta cream and increase the fruit layers. If you prefer a stronger floral note, add an extra drop or two of rose water to the cream.

Storage/Reheating

These fruit cocktail cups are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store the prepared sauces and cream separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble just before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as this dessert is meant to be served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use canned fruit instead of fresh?

Yes, canned fruit can be used if well drained. Choose fruit packed in juice rather than syrup to avoid excess sweetness.

What can I substitute for guava nectar?

Orange juice or apple juice works well and keeps the sauce smooth and refreshing.

Is this dessert very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by fresh fruit and can be adjusted easily by reducing or increasing the honey.

Can I prepare everything in advance?

Yes, all components can be prepared a day ahead. Assemble shortly before serving for the best texture and appearance.

How do I stop the avocado sauce from browning?

Prepare it close to serving time and keep it tightly covered. A small squeeze of lemon juice can help slow oxidation.

Can I make this without nuts?

Absolutely. Simply omit the nuts or replace them with toasted coconut flakes for crunch.

What type of glasses work best?

Clear glass cups or dessert tumblers work best to show off the layers.

Can I make this for a crowd?

Yes, you can double or triple the recipe and assemble multiple cups just before serving.

Is rose water necessary?

It adds a traditional floral aroma, but you can reduce it or omit it if you prefer a more neutral cream.

Can children enjoy this dessert?

Yes, it’s family-friendly, naturally sweetened, and made with wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

Lebanese Fruit Cocktail Cups are a beautiful celebration of fresh fruit, creamy textures, and delicate floral notes. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this dessert brings color, freshness, and a touch of Middle Eastern flair to any table. Whether for guests or a simple treat at home, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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