Description

These Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits are elegant, no-bake dessert cups layered with buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and sweet strawberry compote, topped with whipped cream and crushed cookies. Served in individual mason jars, they are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, Valentine’s Day desserts, summer BBQs, or even high-end catering events.

This recipe combines the indulgence of classic cheesecake with the convenience of a no-bake dessert. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the sweet-tart strawberry topping and crunchy graham cracker base. Not only are these parfaits visually stunning, but they are also beginner-friendly and ideal for meal prep desserts.

If you’re searching for easy no-bake cheesecake recipes, quick dessert ideas for parties, or make-ahead summer desserts, this recipe is exactly what you need.

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Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• 6 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Topping:

• Whipped cream

• Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Compote

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

2. Cook for 5–7 minutes until strawberries soften.

3. Add cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water) if you prefer a thicker topping.

4. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes.

5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

This homemade strawberry sauce tastes far better than store-bought pie filling and gives the dessert a gourmet touch.

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Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Base

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.

2. Spoon 2 tablespoons into each jar.

3. Press lightly to form a crust layer.

This creates that classic cheesecake texture without baking.

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Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.

3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

4. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

This technique creates a light, airy, bakery-style cheesecake filling.

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Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits

Layer in this order:

1. Graham cracker crust

2. Cheesecake filling

3. Strawberry compote

4. Repeat layers

5. Finish with whipped cream and crushed cookies

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use full-fat cream cheese for rich flavor.

• Chill mixing bowl before whipping cream for better volume.

• Assemble in clear mason jars for a professional presentation.

• Make 24 hours ahead for enhanced flavor development.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight containers.

• Do not freeze (texture may separate).

• Add whipped cream just before serving for best appearance.

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Variations

• Blueberry Cheesecake Parfaits

• Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Cups

• Low-Sugar Keto Cheesecake Parfaits

• Oreo Cheesecake Dessert Jars

• No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these cheesecake parfaits ahead of time?

Yes! They are ideal make-ahead desserts and taste even better after chilling overnight.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely. Thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.

3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour crust.

4. Can I use Cool Whip instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but fresh whipped cream provides a more premium texture.

5. Are these good for catering or selling?

Yes! These dessert jars are popular for home baking businesses, dessert catering, and party dessert tables.

6. What’s the difference between cheesecake mousse and cheesecake filling?

Cheesecake mousse is lighter due to whipped cream folding, which is exactly the technique used here.

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Why This Recipe Performs Well Online

This dessert fits into high-value niches like:

• Easy dessert recipes

• No-bake desserts

• Party food ideas

• Holiday desserts

• Homemade dessert cups

• Small baking business ideas

These niches are highly searched and monetizable in food blogging and digital recipe marketing.