Introduction
These no-bake cherry cheesecake parfaits are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. With their creamy texture and sweet-tart cherry topping, they make a stunning and delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
6 pieces graham crackers, 1 small individual pack
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup organic sugar
2 cups 40% heavy whipping cream
1 can 21 oz. cherry pie filling
Canned cherries with stems for garnish
24 parfait cups
Pastry bag for piping
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
1 hour (plus chilling time)
Yield
24 parfait cups
Instructions
1. Prepare Graham Cracker Crumbs:
Crush the graham crackers in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. Set aside.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on high speed until creamy and smooth, ensuring the sugar granules are fully dissolved.
Add the heavy cream to the mixture, starting at low speed and gradually increasing. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat until smooth and thick, about a minute.
3. Assemble the Parfaits:
Add 2 tablespoons of crushed graham cracker crumbs to the bottom of each parfait cup. Fill a pastry bag with the cheesecake mixture and pipe into each cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Top with cherry pie filling, spooning it until it reaches the top of the cup. Garnish with a canned cherry with a stem for an elegant touch.
4. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the parfaits for at least an hour before serving. For best results, make them a day in advance.
Enjoy these no-bake cherry cheesecake parfaits—a creamy, tangy, and beautifully presented dessert that’s sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Graham Cracker Crumbs:
Crush the graham crackers in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. Set aside.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar:
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on high speed until creamy and smooth, ensuring the sugar granules are fully dissolved.
Add Heavy Cream:
Add the heavy cream to the mixture. Start beating at a low speed and gradually increase the speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients.
Continue Beating:
Beat the mixture until it thickens and becomes smooth, which should take about a minute.
Assemble the Parfaits:
Layer Graham Cracker Crumbs:
Add 2 tablespoons of crushed graham cracker crumbs to the bottom of each parfait cup to form the base.
Pipe the Cheesecake Filling:
Fill a pastry bag with the cheesecake mixture. Pipe the cream into each cup, filling them about three-quarters full.
Top with Cherry Pie Filling:
Spoon cherry pie filling on top of each parfait until it reaches the top of the cup.
Garnish:
Garnish each parfait with a canned cherry with a stem for an elegant touch.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the parfaits for at least an hour before serving. For best results, make them a day in advance.
Notes
Storage:
These parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
Feel free to use other fruit pie fillings, such as blueberry or strawberry, for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
