MasterChef star's $3 Coles and Woolworths dessert trick: 'Anyone can make this'

Adriano Zumbo is known for his incredible talent when it comes to creating desserts that are more like works of art. Whether he's judging a slew of hopeful cooks on MasterChef or competing with his fellow culinary superstars on Dessert Masters, Adriano impresses at every turn.

It's for these reasons and many more, that we mere mortals would never dream we could whip up something even half as impressive in the kitchen as Adriano does regularly. However, the superstar chef tells Yahoo Lifestyle that anyone can make one of his creations, simply using a $3 item from Woolies!

While the traditional French dessert millefeuille (layers of puff pastry and pastry cream) looks intimidating, Adriano has a recipe for a Vanilla Chocolate Millefeuille that will have us all thinking we should apply for MasterChef 2026!

The secret ingredient? Wicked Sister High Protein Puddings, which sell for just $3 at Coles and Woolworths for a 170g tub.

$3 Coles and Woolies item to make millefeuille

"I used reverse engineering to develop this version, focusing on creating an easy-to-make dish that’s typically quite intricate," he tells us. "I explored ready-to-use products that could save time and simplify the process for those less experienced in the kitchen."

RELATED:

• Dessert Masters judge calls out Zumbo for using 'illegal' ingredient

• Dessert Masters star speaks out about 'illegal' ingredient used on the show

• MasterChef star suddenly closes popular restaurant after less than two years: 'Terrible'

He continues, "With ready-made puff pastry, Wicked Sister High Protein Pudding, and fresh raspberries, most of the work is already done. Just bake the puff pastry and whip some cream – it’s super easy."

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to make, so those who are time-poor but still want to impress their dinner guests can add it to their repertoire.

"I believe anyone can make this – even a wood duck," Adriano jokes. "The minimal steps and quick prep time give everyone a great chance to impress their loved one or date. My top tip is that different brands of frozen puff pastry can yield different results, but don’t underestimate home-brand versions."

If you or your guests love sweet stuff but can't tolerate gluten, not to worry as Adriano tells us this recipe can be made by replacing the puff pastry with a gluten-free alternative. He also says that the flavours can be swapped out so if you're not a chocolate and vanilla fan (you ok, pal?) then you can use one of Wicked Sister's other flavours such as strawberry or banana.

Other quick and easy desserts to make

So, what other simple yet showstopping desserts does Adriano like to pull out of his sleeve when he is low on time yet wanting something with some "wow" factor?

"Chocolate lava cake is my go-to when time is short – it’s so easy to whip up," he says. "Then, just grab one or two sides from the supermarket, like fruit, ice cream, dessert pudding, custard, or granola. There are so many great pairing options."

Another favourite of the dessert chef is ice cream terrine.

"Just layer two or three of your favourite ice cream flavours in a cake tin, freeze, then slice and serve with your choice of accompaniments," he says. "Panna cotta is another winner, served traditionally or in a glass with berries and crumble."

Will Adriano Zumbo be on MasterChef Australia 2025?

With so many genius recipes in his arsenal and a loyal following of sweet tooths who are desperate to see what he does next, it's no wonder we are anxiously waiting to find out if we will see Adriano on our screens this year when MasterChef returns for 2025.

"It’s a big maybe," he tells Yahoo Lifestyle. "TV is very unpredictable – it all depends on whether I fit into their vision and plans, and if I get the call-up."

SHOP:

• Aussie swimwear brand in sizes small to 3XL hailed as 'instant confidence booster'

• $4.50 Woolworths product loved by Aussie sports stars: 'Perfect snack

• Free product that could help increase your home's value by $112,000

Adriano Zumbo's Vanilla Chocolate Millefeuille

Ingredients

For the Pastry Layers:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry

• Baking paper

• Icing sugar, for dusting

For the Filling:

• Fresh raspberries (approx. 10 whole raspberries, halved)

• 70g Wicked Sister High Protein Chocolate Pudding

• 200g Wicked Sister High Protein Vanilla Pudding

• 65g cream

Method (Makes 2-3 slices)

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

2. Place one sheet of frozen puff pastry on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Allow the pastry to thaw slightly, then use a fork to poke holes all over to prevent it from rising too much.

3. Cut the pastry sheet in half. Place another sheet of baking paper on top and weigh it down with another baking tray.

4. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and carefully take off the top tray and paper.

5. Transfer one half of the pastry to another tray. Cut the remaining half into 4 even slices, turn them over, and dust evenly with icing sugar.

6. Increase the oven temperature to 190°C. Bake the sugared pastry slices until the sugar melts and forms a caramelised coating, around 8-15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.

7. With the other half of the puff pastry, cut it into 4 pieces and arrange them on a tray. Each millefeuille will require 3 layers of pastry: 2 plain puff pastry layers and 1 caramelized puff pastry layer.

8. To assemble, cut fresh raspberries in half and place them cut-side down along the edges of the first pastry layer, with open ends facing outward. You should be able to fit 5 halved raspberries in two rows.

9. Spoon or pipe 70g of Wicked Sister High Protein Chocolate Pudding down the centre of the pastry between the two rows of raspberries.

10. Place the second plain puff pastry layer on top of the raspberry pudding filling.

11. In a bowl, whip 65g of cream, then gently fold it into 200g of Wicked Sister High Protein Vanilla Pudding. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag with a piping tip.

12. Pipe 2-3 long strips of the vanilla mixture on top of the second pastry layer, followed by 2 shorter strips on top of those. Finally, place the caramelised puff pastry layer on top, shiny side up.

13. Refrigerate to set, then enjoy.

Want the latest lifestyle and entertainment news? Make sure you are following us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter.