Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Summer Nights and Strawberry Dreams

The first time I tasted this parfait, summer air clung to my skin. Juicy strawberries burst in my mouth. Graham crumbs crunched like tiny campfire treats. Ever wondered how you could turn dessert into a memory? This dish does it. Sweet, creamy, and crisp—it’s a hug in a cup.

My First Parfait Disaster

I once forgot the butter in the crumbs. They turned into dust. The parfait layers slid apart like a wobbly tower. Home cooking teaches patience—and laughter. Now I measure twice. The messes make the best stories. Share yours below!

Why This Parfait Works

– Warm strawberries melt into the cool whip. It’s like summer meets winter. – Graham cracker butteriness balances the tart fruit. No one flavor overpowers. Which flavor combo surprises you most? Is it the sweet-salty crumbs or the creamy-fruity layers?

A Slice of Parfait History

Parfaits started in France, but this version is all American. Graham crackers were health food in the 1800s. *Did you know early recipes used honey instead of sugar?* Now it’s a picnic classic. Tell me your favorite parfait memory!
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Ingredients:

IngredientAmountNotes
Strawberries1 pintHusked and halved (or cut smaller if large)
Water⅛ cup
Granulated sugar⅛ cup
Graham cracker sheets7 sheetsAbout 1 cup of crumbs
Unsalted butter¼ cup (½ stick)Melted (can use salted)
Whipped topping2 cupsCool Whip or Reddi Whip

How to Make Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Step 1
See also  Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute for Casseroles
Simmer strawberries, water, and sugar in a pot. Stir gently until soft and saucy. Let it cool for 10 minutes. (Hard-learned tip: Don’t overcook—mushy strawberries lose their bright flavor.) Step 2 Crush graham crackers in a food processor. Pulse until fine crumbs form. Add melted butter and mix well. It should clump like damp sand. Step 3 Press crumbs into parfait cups. Leave a few teaspoons aside for topping. Pack them lightly—too tight makes them hard. Step 4 Layer strawberry sauce over crumbs. Top with whipped cream. Sprinkle reserved crumbs for crunch. Serve chilled. What’s the best way to hull strawberries? Share below! Cook Time: 7 minutes Total Time: 17 minutes Yield: 4 servings Category: Dessert, No-Bake

3 Fun Twists on This Parfait

Chocolate Graham Crust Swap regular graham crackers for chocolate ones. Adds a rich, cocoa kick. Berry Mix-Up Use raspberries or blackberries instead. Tangy and colorful. Yogurt Swap Replace whipped topping with Greek yogurt. Lighter and tangier. Which twist would you try first? Vote in the comments!

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Serve with fresh mint or extra berries. Great for brunch or dessert. Pair with iced tea or a fizzy lemonade. For a boozy twist, try a sweet rosé. Which would you choose tonight?
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Storing and Serving Tips

Keep parfaits fresh by storing them covered in the fridge for up to two days. The graham layers may soften but still taste great. Freezing isn’t ideal—the whipped topping gets icy. No reheating needed; serve chilled. *Fun fact: My grandkids call these “strawberry clouds”!* Batch-cook the strawberry sauce ahead. Just warm it slightly before layering. Why this matters: Prepping saves time when guests drop by.
See also  Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Bars with Buttery Shortbread Crust
Ever tried doubling the recipe for a crowd? Share your twist below!

Quick Fixes for Common Hiccups

Sauce too runny? Simmer it 1-2 minutes longer to thicken. Graham crumbs too dry? Add a tad more butter. Whipped topping deflating? Fold it gently—don’t stir hard. Why this matters: Small tweaks make desserts look pro. My neighbor once salvaged a soupy batch by tossing in extra crumbs. Worked like magic! Which fix helped you most? Vote: (1) Thicker sauce, (2) Buttery crumbs, (3) Fluffy topping.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this gluten-free? A: Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers. Check labels to be safe. How far ahead can I assemble these? A: Layer them 1-2 hours before serving to keep crumbs crisp. Any whipped topping swaps? A: Fresh whipped cream works but melts faster. Can I use frozen strawberries? A: Thaw and drain them first to avoid extra liquid. Doubling for a party? A: Absolutely. Just use a bigger pot for the sauce.

Wrapping Up

Nothing beats a sweet, simple treat. I hope this parfait brings you joy. Tag @SavoryDiscovery on Pinterest so I can cheer your creations. Happy cooking! —Elowen Thorn
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers
Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Creamy Strawberry Parfait with Graham Cracker Layers

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: 7 minutesRest time: Total time: 17 minutesServings:4 servingsCalories: kcal Best Season:Summer

Description

Experience the delightful contrast of creamy whipped topping, sweet strawberry puree, and crunchy graham cracker layers in this easy-to-make dessert.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. To a pot add 1 pint strawberries, husked and halved, 1/8 cup water and 1/8 cup granulated sugar. Simmer over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes or until the strawberries are soft and you have a thick sauce. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a food processor add 7 graham cracker sheets. Pulse for 30 seconds or until you have crumbs.
  3. Add 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted to the mixer. Pulse for 30 seconds or until combined (it should look like wet sand.)
  4. Transfer the crumbs to 4 parfait cups. Reserve 2 teaspoons of crumbs for the topping. Gently press the crumbs until slightly compacted.
  5. Transfer the strawberry puree to all the cups.
  6. Top each cup with whipped topping.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs on top (1/2 teaspoon for each cup.)
  8. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

    For best results, chill the parfaits for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Keywords:Strawberry, Parfait, Graham Cracker, Dessert, Easy
See also  Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake Bars