For those hot summer days when you crave a dessert that’s light, refreshing, and easy to make, these No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits are a perfect choice. With layers of buttery graham cracker crumbs, fresh macerated strawberries, and creamy cheesecake filling, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s made in just 15 minutes and requires no baking at all!
Print
No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
Indulge in this creamy, dreamy No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait! With buttery graham crackers, fresh juicy strawberries, and a velvety cheesecake filling, this dessert is your perfect summer treat in a glass! 😍
- Total Time: 15minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh strawberries: Sweet and ripe strawberries are the star of this dessert.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: To macerate the strawberries and enhance their natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a zesty freshness to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: A touch of acidity helps brighten the flavors.
- 1 sleeve graham crackers (or 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs): For a buttery, crunchy base.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs into a delicious crust.
- Two 8-ounce blocks of cream cheese, softened: The foundation of the creamy cheesecake filling.
- 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk: Adds a rich, sweet creaminess to the cheesecake layer.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or vanilla extract: For that classic vanilla flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by removing and discarding the stems from the strawberries, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the strawberries with the sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure the strawberries are coated. Allow this to sit for about 15 minutes, as the sugar will draw out the natural juices, creating a sweet and slightly tangy syrup.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crumbs
While the strawberries are macerating, place the graham crackers into a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, simply place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Mixture
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract (or vanilla paste) on medium-high speed for about a minute, or until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy cheesecake layer of the parfaits.
Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the parfaits. Begin by placing a few spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture into the bottom of your serving glasses or jars. Next, add a layer of the buttery graham cracker crumbs, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries (be sure to leave any excess liquid behind to avoid sogginess). Repeat this layering process once more for a beautiful, layered dessert.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once the parfaits are assembled, cover and chill them in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the parfaits firm up slightly, making them easier to serve. When ready, enjoy these delightful parfaits with a spoon and savor every creamy, fruity bite!
Notes
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: Since strawberries are a key component of this dessert, make sure to use fresh, sweet berries for the best flavor.
- Crushing the Graham Crackers: If you don’t have a food processor, place the crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin until you achieve fine crumbs.
- Make Ahead: These parfaits can be prepared in advance and chilled for several hours before serving. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings when you want a no-fuss dessert.
- Substitute Fruits: While strawberries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
- 1 lb fresh strawberries: Sweet and ripe strawberries are the star of this dessert.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: To macerate the strawberries and enhance their natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a zesty freshness to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: A touch of acidity helps brighten the flavors.
- 1 sleeve graham crackers (or 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs): For a buttery, crunchy base.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs into a delicious crust.
- Two 8-ounce blocks of cream cheese, softened: The foundation of the creamy cheesecake filling.
- 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk: Adds a rich, sweet creaminess to the cheesecake layer.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or vanilla extract: For that classic vanilla flavor.
Instructions for Preparing No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by removing and discarding the stems from the strawberries, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the strawberries with the sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure the strawberries are coated. Allow this to sit for about 15 minutes, as the sugar will draw out the natural juices, creating a sweet and slightly tangy syrup.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crumbs
While the strawberries are macerating, place the graham crackers into a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, simply place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Mixture
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to whip together the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract (or vanilla paste) on medium-high speed for about a minute, or until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy cheesecake layer of the parfaits.
Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits
Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to assemble the parfaits. Begin by placing a few spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture into the bottom of your serving glasses or jars. Next, add a layer of the buttery graham cracker crumbs, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries (be sure to leave any excess liquid behind to avoid sogginess). Repeat this layering process once more for a beautiful, layered dessert.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once the parfaits are assembled, cover and chill them in the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the parfaits firm up slightly, making them easier to serve. When ready, enjoy these delightful parfaits with a spoon and savor every creamy, fruity bite!
Tips for Perfect No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
- Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: Since strawberries are a key component of this dessert, make sure to use fresh, sweet berries for the best flavor.
- Crushing the Graham Crackers: If you don’t have a food processor, place the crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin until you achieve fine crumbs.
- Make Ahead: These parfaits can be prepared in advance and chilled for several hours before serving. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings when you want a no-fuss dessert.
- Substitute Fruits: While strawberries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.
Customizing Your Cheesecake Parfaits
The beauty of this no-bake dessert is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Mixed Berry Parfaits: Instead of just strawberries, add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry parfait.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate chips between the layers for an extra indulgent twist.
- Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits: For a tangier version, mix some lemon zest and juice into the cheesecake filling and garnish with candied lemon peel.
- Healthier Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap the graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits for a lighter version of this dessert.
Serving Suggestions for No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
These parfaits are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a summer barbecue, or even a special celebration. They’re visually stunning when served in clear glasses, showcasing the beautiful layers of strawberries, cheesecake, and graham cracker crumbs.
You can also serve them in small mason jars for a fun, portable dessert, especially for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
Storing Your No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), these parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Avoid freezing, as the cheesecake mixture can become grainy once thawed.
Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
- Quick and Easy: You can make these parfaits in just 15 minutes, with no baking required.
- Refreshing: Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is light, fruity, and incredibly refreshing.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these parfaits in advance, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
- Customizable: This recipe is versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
These No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth without much effort. With their beautiful layers, rich cheesecake filling, and sweet strawberries, they’re the perfect treat for summer or any time of year when you’re craving something fresh and creamy. Serve them up for a quick family dessert, a festive gathering, or simply because you want a deliciously indulgent treat without turning on the oven!
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness of these parfaits. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and everyone will appreciate the burst of fresh, tangy strawberries with every bite!