Five Old-School Desserts From Our Childhood

While today's dessert trends lean toward gourmet creations and intricate flavours, there’s something undeniably special about the old-school desserts from our childhood. These humble, comforting delights remind us of a simpler time when sugary happiness was just a spoonful away. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit five beloved desserts from the past:

1. Rice Pudding

A staple in many households, rice pudding is one of those desserts that feels like a cosy hug in a bowl. Simple, sweet, and creamy, it’s made from ingredients almost everyone had in their kitchen: rice, milk, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon or vanilla. Whether served warm on a chilly evening or cold from the fridge as a summer treat, rice pudding was a dessert loved by both children and adults. Its variations—some with raisins, others with nutmeg or fruit compote on top—made it a versatile favourite. The best part? That rich layer of skin that would form on top when baked, which was always up for grabs.

2. Jelly and Custard

Few desserts are as visually nostalgic as jelly and custard. This colourful, wobbly delight was a star at birthday parties and weekend dinners alike. Bright, vibrant jelly (or jello) came in flavours like raspberry, lime, or orange and was often topped with a generous dollop of creamy, smooth custard. The combination of textures—the wobble of the jelly and the velvety richness of the custard—made it a playful and delicious treat. For many kids, the fun wasn’t just in eating it but in watching the jelly jiggle on the plate before taking that first spoonful.

3. Banana Split

The banana split was the ultimate indulgence—a dessert that felt like a celebration on its own. Consisting of a split banana topped with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, it was a masterpiece of flavours and toppings. Add whipped cream, crushed nuts, chocolate syrup, and the all-important cherry on top, and you had a dessert worthy of the biggest sweet tooth. Often enjoyed at ice cream parlours or made at home on special occasions, the banana split was the crown jewel of retro desserts, bringing smiles to faces with each spoonful.

4. Jam Roly-Poly

A true British classic, jam roly-poly was one of the cosiest childhood desserts, often served on school lunch trays or at family dinners. This comforting dessert is made by rolling up suet pastry with a sweet layer of jam (usually raspberry or strawberry), steaming it to perfection, and serving it with warm custard. The soft, pillowy pastry paired with the sticky sweetness of the jam made it irresistible, while the custard added just the right balance of creaminess. While it may seem simple, for many, the jam roly-poly holds a special place in the memory bank, representing comforting meals with a side of love.

5. Angel Delight

A quick and easy dessert, Angel Delight was a pudding mix that magically transformed into a fluffy, mousse-like treat with just the addition of milk. Available in flavours like strawberry, butterscotch, and chocolate, this whipped dessert was a favourite for busy parents looking for a simple yet satisfying treat for their kids. The light and airy texture was like eating clouds of sweetness, and it often made its way to the table during weeknight dinners or as a surprise after-school snack. The anticipation of whipping up Angel Delight was almost as fun as eating it, making it a nostalgic favourite for many.