Red White and Blue Cheesecake Parfaits
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Easy Red White and Blue Cheesecake Parfaits
Fancy a bit of Stars and Stripes on your dessert table? Ever wondered how to whip up a showstopper that screams 4th of July dessert without breaking a sweat? These easy red white and blue Cheesecake Parfaits are your answer.
Honestly, they're so simple, even I can't mess them up!
A Taste of Americana
This cheesecake parfait recipe is all about celebrating American flavors and traditions. Originating from a love for classic Red white and blue desserts , it's the perfect way to honour Memorial Day desserts or simply enjoy a summer dessert recipes treat.
It’s an easy no bake dessert , needs around 20 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes to chill. This recipe makes around 6 delish parfaits.
Why You'll Love This Delight
Beyond the patriotic colours, these parfaits are packed with flavour and a little goodness. The cream cheese offers a bit of protein, plus the fresh strawberry blueberry parfait bursts with antioxidants.
They are great for a summer BBQ, a family gathering, or even just a Tuesday treat. I like that this recipe is special and looks festive.
Grab your glasses and get ready. Next up, all the ingredients for the most beautiful American flag dessert that's also yummy, and not some complicated Red white blue trifle !
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Easy Red White and Blue Dessert
Okay, let's dive into what you'll need for these stunning red white and blue desserts ! Honestly, it's super simple, and that’s what makes it so great.
This is one easy no bake dessert that anyone can whip up. This strawberry blueberry parfait , or red white blue trifle , or whatever you want to call it will be a hit at your 4th.
Main Ingredients for this Cheesecake Parfait Recipe
Here's the breakdown. I've made this so many times, I practically dream about these measurements! Perfect for your 4th of July dessert , Memorial Day or even just a summer day
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: You will need 1 ½ cups ( 150g ). I use about 12 graham crackers. Make sure they are finely crushed.
- Melted Butter: ¼ cup ( 56g ) unsalted butter. Good quality butter makes a difference, trust me.
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons ( 25g ). For the crumbs.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces ( 226g ), softened. Full fat cream cheese is the way to go for that rich flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup ( 113g ). For the filling.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon . Pure vanilla is the best, but imitation works in a pinch.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup ( 237ml ), cold. Super important that it's cold for whipping.
- Fresh Strawberries: 1 pint ( 568g ), hulled and sliced. Look for bright red, fragrant berries.
- Fresh Blueberries: 1 pint ( 568g ), rinsed and dried. Firm, plump blueberries are what you want.
- Optional: Whipped Cream for topping
Seasoning Notes: Keep it Fresh!
You know, sometimes less is more. For this patriotic dessert , the fruit is the star. Keep it simple.
- The vanilla extract is key. It gives the filling that classic cheesecake flavor. You can also use almond extract for an extra boost.
- A tiny pinch of salt in the graham cracker mixture brings out the sweetness.
- If you are feeling fancy, a drizzle of lemon juice over the strawberries will brighten them up.
Equipment Needed for the Perfect Parfait
Honestly, you probably have everything you need already!
- A 9x13 inch baking pan (for the graham cracker crumbs). You can use a bowl if you want.
- 6 clear parfait glasses or dessert cups. Presentation is key.
- Mixing bowls. I like to use different sizes.
- An electric mixer. A handheld or stand mixer will do.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Gotta be precise, darlings.
- A rubber spatula. For folding in the whipped cream.
Remember you can adapt this recipe for different allergies or preferences! Use gluten-free graham crackers and vegan cream cheese and whipped cream for a vegan and gluten-free American flag dessert
These summer dessert recipes will delight any crowd.
Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Parfaits: So Easy, It's Criminal!
Seriously, these red white and blue cheesecake parfaits are so easy, it almost feels like cheating. I mean, no baking? Yes, please! If you're like me, and sometimes the thought of turning on the oven sends shivers down your spine, then you've found your soulmate recipe.
These are perfect red white and blue desserts for literally any summer bash, especially your 4th of July dessert spread.
Honestly, even if it's just a Tuesday and you're feeling a bit patriotic, go for it!
Prep Like a Pro (Without the Pro Skills)
Okay, let's get our ducks in a row. First, you want your cream cheese properly softened. We're talking room temperature, people! If it's still cold, you'll end up with lumpy cheesecake, and nobody wants that.
Aim for at least 20 minutes of preparation time. It allows you to arrange your berries and measuring cups to make your strawberry blueberry parfait creation like a boss.
Parfait Assembly: As Easy As 1, 2, 3 (and 4!)
Time to get building!
Crush the Graham Crackers : In a baking pan, mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar.
Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling : Beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until creamy. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cream into the cheese mixture.
Layer Like a Legend : In parfait glasses, layer graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, strawberries, and blueberries. Repeat!
Chill Out : Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes .
Pro Tips That’ll Make You Look Like a Rockstar
Want to elevate your patriotic desserts game? Here’s the lowdown: First, don’t overmix the whipped cream! Seriously, it'll turn grainy, and then you'll have a sad, sad cheesecake.
Another little secret: chill for as long as possible. The longer those flavors meld, the better it tastes. We are talking about the best summer dessert recipes
And if you want to make these ahead for your Memorial Day desserts party? Absolutely! Just assemble everything a day in advance.
Talk about an easy no bake dessert . Serve up this red white blue trifle at your next event. Want to feel even more American? Why not turn it into an American flag dessert ? It is a sure banger!
You won't regret making this cheesecake parfait recipe .
Recipe Notes for Your Easy Red White and Blue Parfaits
Hey, friend! Before you dive into making these easy red white and blue parfaits, let's chat about a few things that'll make your life easier and your dessert even more amazing.
I've made my fair share of mistakes in the kitchen, so trust me, these notes are gold. These red white and blue desserts will really make your party pop!
Serving Suggestions: Make 'Em Pretty!
Presentation is key, right? For these strawberry blueberry parfaits , use tall, clear glasses to show off those gorgeous layers.
Honestly, it just looks fancier that way. If you are thinking about 4th of July dessert ideas, this is it.
For a little extra oomph , add a dollop of whipped cream on top. I sometimes drizzle a little raspberry sauce for some extra sweetness, or garnish it with mint leaves for a touch of freshness.
As for drinks, think lemonade or iced tea. Classic!
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh!
If you have leftovers, you are lucky! Just cover them with plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge. They'll keep for about 2 days .
The graham crackers might get a little soft, but they'll still taste delicious. I don't recommend freezing these, as the texture of the cream cheese filling will change.
No one wants gritty cheesecake!
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Want to mix things up? For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers. They taste just as good, promise! If you are looking for patriotic desserts that everyone can enjoy, this is it! You could also add a little lemon zest or almond extract to the cheesecake filling.
Oh my gosh! It takes the flavor to a whole new level. These are great for Memorial Day desserts too, by the way.
Plus, try different crushed cookies than graham crackers. Experiment!
Nutrition Basics: A (Slightly) Healthier Treat
Okay, let's be real. This isn't exactly a health food. But! Each parfait is about 350 calories , with 4g of protein .
Plus, you are getting some antioxidants from the berries. I see this as a win. These summer dessert recipes will keep you cool.
Remember the red white blue trifle ? It is very similar!
Honestly, these cheesecake parfait recipe is so easy, anyone can make it. Don't stress if it doesn't look perfect. Imperfection is part of the charm! Have fun with it, and enjoy your American flag dessert .
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make these easy red white and blue parfaits ahead of time?
Absolutely! These parfaits are perfect for making in advance. Assemble them up to 24 hours before serving and store them covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the graham crackers will soften just a tad.
Just maybe hold off on the whipped cream topping until right before serving to keep it looking its best nobody wants a soggy topping, right?
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this easy red white and blue dessert?
You bet! Feel free to get creative. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers. If you're not a fan of graham crackers, crushed vanilla wafers or even shortbread cookies would work nicely. You can also use different berries raspberries or blackberries would be lovely additions or substitutes.
Vegan alternatives work great here too!
My cheesecake filling is lumpy! What did I do wrong?
Lumpy cheesecake filling usually means the cream cheese wasn't soft enough. Make sure your cream cheese is at proper room temperature before you start mixing leave it out on the counter for at least an hour, or even longer, depending on your room temperature.
And remember, gently fold in the whipped cream at the end; overmixing can also cause issues.
How long will these red, white, and blue parfaits last in the fridge?
These parfaits are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making them. After that, the berries might start to get a little soft, and the graham cracker crumbs could become too soggy. Make sure to store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
Think of it like leftovers from Sunday roast; still good the next day, but probably not by Wednesday!
Are these easy red white and blue cheesecake parfaits healthy?
While undeniably delicious, these parfaits are definitely a treat! They contain sugar and fat from the cream cheese and whipped cream. You can make them a bit healthier by using reduced fat cream cheese, a sugar substitute, and increasing the amount of fresh fruit.
Ultimately, enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet everything in moderation, even patriotic desserts!
Can I make this into one big trifle instead of individual parfaits?
Absolutely! Instead of layering into individual parfait glasses, you can easily assemble this as a trifle in a large glass bowl. The effect is very impressive, and it's perfect for a potluck or large gathering.
Just layer the graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and berries in the bowl, repeating until all ingredients are used, and then chill as directed. It's a showstopper!
Red White And Blue Cheesecake Parfaits
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 1g |