Description
Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait Cups are light, creamy, and no-bake layered desserts featuring sweet strawberries, luscious cheesecake filling, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Easy to assemble and perfect for parties, holidays, or quick indulgences.
Ingredients
Base
- 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 medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, stirring until the mixture is evenly moistened 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 with no lumps.
- Whip the Cream: In another chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, meaning the cream holds its shape but is still light and fluffy.
- Combine Filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, mixing carefully to maintain the airiness and create a light cheesecake filling.
- Layer the Parfait: Begin assembling by spooning a layer of the buttery graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each serving cup.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Spoon a generous amount of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker layer, smoothing it gently.
- Add Fruit and Jam: Top the cheesecake layer with chopped fresh strawberries and a small drizzle of strawberry jam if using, to add extra sweetness and flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and strawberries in the same order until the cups are filled to the top.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled parfait cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Use clear serving cups to showcase the beautiful layers for an appealing presentation.
- For variation, substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries to enjoy different berry flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American