Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait Cups are a light and creamy no-bake dessert featuring layers of sweet strawberries, rich cheesecake filling, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Perfectly suited for parties, holidays, or quick and elegant dessert options.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Fruit Layer
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly mixed and crumbly.
- Make the cheesecake base: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Whip the cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, making sure it holds shape but still remains light.
- Combine cheesecake filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, fluffy cheesecake filling without deflating the whipped cream.
- Layer the parfait cups: Start by adding a layer of the graham cracker crumb mixture at the bottom of each serving cup.
- Add cheesecake filling: Spoon a generous layer of the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crumbs.
- Add fruit and optional jam: Top the cheesecake layer with chopped fresh strawberries and drizzle a small amount of strawberry jam for extra sweetness if desired.
- Repeat layering: Continue layering with graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and strawberries until the cups are filled, finishing with fruit on top.
- Chill the parfaits: Refrigerate the assembled parfait cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the cheesecake filling to firm up and the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Use clear serving cups to showcase the attractive layers of the parfait.
- You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a variation.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, adjust the amount of powdered sugar and strawberry jam accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American