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Cherry Cheesecake Parfait
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Crust Layer:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
For the Cherry Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- Fresh cherries
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Crumbled graham crackers or shortbread cookies
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Set aside.
- Prepare the Crust Layer:
- In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using). Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cherry Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the cherries release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Assemble the Parfait:
- Start by spooning a layer of graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each serving glass.
- Add a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of the crumbs.
- Spoon a layer of cherry sauce over the cheesecake mixture.
- Repeat the layers if desired, finishing with a final layer of cheesecake mixture on top.
- Garnish:
- Drizzle some additional cherry sauce on top of the final layer.
- Garnish with fresh cherries and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Sprinkle some crumbled graham crackers or shortbread cookies on top for extra texture.
- Serve:
- Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips:
- Make Ahead: These parfaits can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Substitutions: You can substitute the cherry sauce with any other fruit sauce, such as strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry.
- Layer Variations: For added flavor and texture, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce.
This cherry cheesecake parfait is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or as a refreshing treat. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy crust, and sweet-tart cherry sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser.
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If you have any more questions or need further recipes, feel free to ask!