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Fresh Red White and Blue Layered Cheesecake Parfaits

fresh red white and blue layered cheesecake parfaits - featured image
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A quick and easy patriotic dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh berries, and a crunchy graham cracker base. Perfect for summer gatherings and made in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crunchy base: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of this mixture into the bottom of each parfait glass and press lightly to form an even layer. Set aside. (5 minutes)
  2. Macerate the berries: In separate bowls, toss strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to soften and release juices. For blueberries, combine with sugar and water; gently warm on low heat for 3-4 minutes if desired, then cool. (15 minutes, can overlap with next step)
  3. Make the cheesecake layer: Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Add vanilla extract and mix. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy. (10 minutes)
  4. Assemble the parfaits: Start with a layer of cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker base, about 3 tablespoons. Next, add a spoonful of strawberries, followed by another cheesecake layer. Then, add a layer of blueberries. Repeat layering if your glasses are tall enough, finishing with a dollop of cheesecake and a few fresh berries on top for garnish. (10 minutes)
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and the layers set nicely.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for smooth texture. Whip cream to soft peaks to avoid grainy mixture. Macerate berries well for juicy layers. Chill parfaits at least 1 hour before serving. Can substitute berries or use gluten-free ingredients for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake parfaits, red white and blue dessert, summer dessert, patriotic dessert, layered cheesecake, fresh berries, quick dessert

Find it online: https://spoonmira.com/fresh-red-white-and-blue-layered-cheesecake-parfaits-easy-3-step-recipe-for-perfect-summer-desserts/