Berry Cheesecake Parfaits are the perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy. These individual desserts are not only eye-catching but also a breeze to make, offering a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake.
Graham cracker crumbs are the base of our parfait, providing a crunchy, buttery layer that mimics the classic cheesecake crust. Butter binds these crumbs together, adding richness and flavor.
Cream cheese is the star of the show, lending our dessert its signature creamy texture and tangy flavor. Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
Heavy whipping cream adds lightness and fluffiness to the cheesecake layer, making it feel luxurious and airy.
Powdered sugar sweetens the mixture without the graininess you'd get from granulated sugar, ensuring a smooth filling.
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cheesecake layer with its aromatic sweetness.
Finally, the stars of the topping are fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, which bring a burst of color and fresh, sweet-tart flavor.
These Berry Cheesecake Parfaits shine on their own, but for an extra special presentation, serve them with a sprig of fresh mint on top. Pair with a light, chilled glass of white wine for a refreshing summer experience.
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. You want it to resemble wet sand β this will be your crust layer. Divide this mixture among your serving cups, pressing it down lightly to form a nice, compact base.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until itβs smooth and creamy. This ensures you wonβt have any lumps in your parfait. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, and continue beating until everything is fluffy and well combined.
Spoon a layer of this cheesecake filling over the crust in each cup. The amount depends on your preference for cheesecake-to-crust ratio. Then, add a layer of your assorted berries β strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Repeat the cheesecake filling and berry layers as desired, but make sure to finish with a beautiful berry topping.
Pop these beauties into the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the layers to set properly, making them easier to serve and enjoy.