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Berry Cheesecake Parfaits recipe
Ben Carraoli

Berry Cheesecake Parfaits recipe

I just made these Berry Cheesecake Parfaits, and they have become an instant favorite in my house. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fresh, tangy berries is simply divine. It’s a stunning dessert that looks like it took hours but is surprisingly simple to put together.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs - These form the crunchy buttery base of the parfait. You can buy them pre-crushed or make your own.
  • 3 tablespoons of melted butter - This binds the graham cracker crumbs together to create a delicious crust layer.
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust balancing the tanginess of the berries and cream cheese.
  • 8 ounces of cream cheese softened - The star of the cheesecake filling. Make sure it's at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture.
  • 1/4 cup of powdered sugar - Sweetens the filling while keeping it light and airy.
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract - Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
  • 1 cup of heavy cream - Whipped to stiff peaks this gives the filling its light, mousse-like texture.
  • 1 cup of mixed berries strawberries, blueberries, raspberries - Fresh berries add a burst of color, flavor, and natural sweetness.
  • Additional berries for garnish - For that beautiful finishing touch.
  • Mint leaves for garnish optional - Adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh aroma.

Method
 

  1. First, prepare the crust layer. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix everything together with a fork or spatula until the crumbs are evenly coated and have a texture similar to damp sand. This buttery base provides a wonderful crunch that complements the creamy filling.
  2. Next, create the luscious cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it's completely smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until they are fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Fow for the fun part: assembly! Grab your serving glasses. Start by spooning a layer of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each glass. Follow that with a generous layer of the cheesecake filling, then top it with a layer of mixed berries. Repeat these layers until your glasses are full, ending with a final layer of berries on top.
  4. Once assembled, the parfaits need time to chill. Place them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to set properly. Just before you’re ready to serve, garnish each parfait with a few extra fresh berries and a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance and freshness.