Hey y’all! Ready to dig into something irresistible? This Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait is a fuss-free, no-bake dessert packed with dreamy cream cheese, juicy strawberries, and crunchy cookie layers. Whether you’re after an easy weeknight treat, a showstopping finish for a dinner party, or an adorable make-ahead dessert for special occasions, this parfait checks all the boxes. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- No-bake and ready in 20 minutes—perfect for busy days.
- Layers of velvety cheesecake cream, sweet strawberries, and crunchy graham crackers delight every bite.
- Easily customizable for various fruit or cookie combos.
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining.
- Beautiful presentation in just about any glass or jar!
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- 1 cup (about 8 cookies) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, to sweeten strawberries)
- Zest from 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
Step 1: Prep Strawberries
In a bowl, toss diced strawberries with powdered sugar and optional lemon zest; set aside to macerate, drawing out sweetness and juices.
Step 2: Make Graham Cracker Layer
Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Cream
In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form (about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer; see tips from Serious Eats). Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits
Layer ingredients into 4-6 small glasses or mason jars: start with a spoonful of graham cracker crumble, add a generous scoop of cheesecake cream, then a layer of sweet strawberries. Repeat the layers, finishing with extra strawberries and cookie crumbs on top.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Parfaits can be enjoyed right away for a creamy, soft texture or chilled for 1-2 hours for a firmer, cold dessert. Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint right before serving.
Notes & Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- For neater layers, use a piping bag to add the cream cheese layer to your jars.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps (check this guide to softening cream cheese by King Arthur Baking).
- Frozen strawberries work in a pinch—just thaw and drain well before layering.
Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap graham crackers for crushed chocolate cookies and drizzle with chocolate sauce.
- Lemon Berry: Add 2 tbsp lemon curd between layers for a zesty twist.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute stevia for sugar and top with unsweetened coconut flakes.
Required Equipment for Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Serving glasses, jars, or dessert cups
Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait Storage & Shelf Life
Store assembled parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add cookie crumbs just before serving to keep them crunchy. These parfaits are not freezer-friendly due to the cream layer.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve with a chilled glass of rosé or fruity iced tea.
- Pair with lemon shortbread cookies or a light sponge cake.
- Perfect as an individual treat for brunch, picnics, or parties!
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- For extra flavor, add a splash of almond or orange extract to the cream filling (see more on Bon Appétit’s cheesecake tips).
- Use very cold heavy cream for maximum volume and fluffiness.
- Chill your serving glasses for 15 minutes before filling to keep parfaits cool and refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait
- Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Assemble up to a day in advance, but add cookie crumb topping just before serving for crunch.
- Can I use other fruits in this cheesecake parfait?
- Yes—try blueberries, raspberries, or a mix for a berry parfait, or even mango for a tropical twist.
- How do I keep the cheesecake layer ultra-smooth?
- Make sure to thoroughly soften your cream cheese and beat until no lumps remain before combining with whipped cream.
Enjoy every luscious bite of your homemade Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
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1In a small bowl, sprinkle the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Toss gently and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
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2In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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3In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
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4Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
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5To assemble the parfaits, layer graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and macerated strawberries in serving glasses. Repeat the layers as desired.
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6Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled treat.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
420cal
Protein:
5 gg
Fat:
30 gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
38 gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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