Ready in: 3 hours 30 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: No-bake · Storage: Keep in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer:
These stunning Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits are a delightful make-ahead dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, fresh raspberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust.
As the holiday season rolls around in bustling New York City, I'm often swept up in the excitement of hosting family and friends. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I find myself seeking vibrant desserts that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to the palate. That's when my eyes landed on the delectable Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits, a refreshing treat that captures the essence of summertime sunshine, even in the depths of winter!
A Vibrant Holiday Dessert
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Visually stunning layers that impress at any gathering.
- A refreshing balance of creamy cheesecake and tart raspberries.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday hosting.
- Can be made ahead of time and served chilled, simplifying your holiday prep.
- Flexible recipe that allows for seasonal fruit swaps.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Raspberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
For the Crust Layer:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
For Garnish:
- Additional fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream
How to Make Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create the perfect Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch round pan or mason jars. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth. Add in sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix on medium speed until creamy and glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Layer
In a separate bowl, gently mash the fresh raspberries with a fork and mix in sugar if desired. You want a chunky mix that retains the raspberry pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits
In individual jars or glasses, layer the graham cracker crust, followed by cheesecake filling, and top with the raspberry mixture. Repeat layers until you reach the top, finishing with the raspberry layer.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 3 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, top with whipped cream and extra raspberries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: When beating the cheesecake mixture, be careful not to overmix it, as this can introduce too much air and cause cracking.
- Ignoring the Chill Time: Patience is key! Letting your parfaits chill helps the flavors meld beautifully, so don't rush this step.
- Using Pre-Crushed Graham Crackers: For a fresher crust, always crush your own graham crackers-you'll appreciate the added texture and flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra zing, consider adding a bit of raspberry puree to the cheesecake layer.
- Experiment with different fruits in place of raspberries during seasonal changes, like strawberries or blueberries.
- If you're short on time, you can use store-bought cheesecake filling for a quicker option.
Variations
- Use strawberries or blueberries instead of raspberries for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate different citrus zest like lime or orange for a unique twist.
- Swap out graham cracker crumbs for crushed cookies or nuts for an alternative crust.
How to Serve
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and extra fresh berries for a decorative touch.
- Serve in mason jars for a charming, rustic presentation.
- Offer alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the parfaits a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Storage: These parfaits keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as these are served chilled.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may be affected.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I discovered that layering not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a delightful burst of flavors with every spoonful. It's a joyful reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special for the holidays.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 parfait
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 4g protein · 40g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Delightful Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a pan or jars. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and zest, then mix until creamy.
- Gently mash fresh raspberries with a fork, and mix in sugar if desired for sweetness.
- Layer the crust, cheesecake filling, and raspberry mixture in jars or glasses, repeating layers until full.
- Chill parfaits for at least 3 hours or overnight. Serve with whipped cream and extra raspberries on top.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make Raspberry Lemonade Cheesecake Parfaits ahead of time?
Yes! These parfaits can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. It's best to chill them for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! If fresh raspberries are not available, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How long do the parfaits last in the refrigerator?
The parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container.
