If you are looking for a dessert that effortlessly combines creamy richness with fresh, fruity sweetness, this Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Layers of luscious mascarpone mixed with vibrant strawberry compote, light whipped cream, and crumbly graham cracker create a parfait that feels indulgent but never too heavy. Every spoonful brings a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that make it perfect for casual family dinners or special celebrations. Trust me, once you try this Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe, you will be reaching for it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three clear glass cups filled with a layered dessert. Each cup has five visible layers: the bottom layer is crumbly and light brown, the second layer is white and creamy, the third layer is bright red strawberry sauce, followed by another crumbly light brown layer, and then topped with a thick white cream layer shaped like a swirl. A small piece of strawberry is placed on top of the cream on each cup. One glass cup is placed on a white plate with two fresh whole strawberries next to it, and a spoon lies on the plate near the cup. The background surface is a white marbled texture with a slightly blurred bowl of strawberries and a jar with a red sauce in the back. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredient list. Each component plays a key role: mascarpone cheese adds a velvety creaminess, strawberry compote brings fresh sweetness and color, whipped cream adds luxurious lightness, and the graham cracker crumb mixture offers just the right crunch.

Mascarpone cheese: Provides a rich, silky texture that forms the base of the creamy layers.
Strawberry compote or preserves: Infuses natural sweetness and a vibrant strawberry flavor that brightens the parfait.
Heavy cream: Whipped to stiff peaks to create a light and airy topping, balancing the richness.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream gently without any grittiness.
Clear vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the whipped cream.
Graham cracker crumbs: Combine with sugar and butter for a crunchy, buttery layer that contrasts the creaminess.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the graham cracker crumbs perfectly to enhance their flavor.
Butter (melted): Binds the graham cracker crumbs and sugar into a slightly moist, sandy texture.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mascarpone Mixture

Start by blending 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese with 3/4 cup of strawberry compote in a medium bowl using low speed. This creates a luscious and slightly fruity creamy base that is both smooth and rich. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

Chill a medium bowl, then pour in 3/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon clear vanilla extract. Whip first on low speed to combine and then on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 to 5 minutes. This airy, fluffy topping adds both elegance and lightness to your parfait. Transfer it into a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, twist the end to seal, and keep it refrigerated alongside the mascarpone mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Graham Cracker Mixture

Mix 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 4 tablespoons melted butter in a small bowl until the texture resembles wet sand. This mixture provides a crunchy and buttery element that contrasts perfectly with the creamy and fruity layers. Prepare this just before assembling to keep it fresh and crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits

Using six 4-ounce glasses, layer your ingredients thoughtfully to build flavor and texture in every bite. Start with 2 teaspoons of graham cracker crumbs pressed gently down, followed by 2 teaspoons of the mascarpone mixture. Then add 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of strawberry compote. Repeat another layer of 2 teaspoons graham cracker crumbs, 2 teaspoons mascarpone mixture, and 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of strawberry compote. Finish each parfait by either piping or spooning the whipped cream topping on top. Chill for an additional 15 to 30 minutes before adding fresh strawberry garnishes.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe

The image shows two clear glasses each with five layers stacked from bottom to top: a layer of crumbled light brown crumbs, a soft white cream layer, a bright red strawberry sauce layer with bits of fruit, another layer of cream, and a final topping of whipped cream with fresh strawberry slices on top. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with fresh strawberries and two metal spoons on the right side resting on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken up close with the glass in the front in sharp focus and the other elements softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the obvious and beautiful choice to crown your parfait, adding a pop of color and an extra fruity punch. You might also consider a sprig of fresh mint for a subtle herbal note and an elegant touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of strawberry syrup can make each serving look absolutely irresistible.

Side Dishes

The light and sweet nature of this Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe pairs wonderfully with decadent yet balanced desserts like a crisp biscotti or a buttery shortbread cookie. For a summery meal, serve it alongside fresh fruit salad or a sparkling lemon water to keep things refreshing and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Though the parfait shines in clear 4-ounce glasses, don’t be afraid to experiment! Small mason jars, stemmed dessert glasses, or even elegant shot glasses for mini parfait shooters make great options. Layering the parfait in taller glasses accentuates the beautiful stripes of color. You can also serve it as a deconstructed parfait in a pretty bowl, topping with clustered graham cracker crumbs, dollops of mixtures, and fresh strawberry slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, cover the parfaits tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh for maximum creaminess and texture contrast between the layers.

Freezing

Freezing this Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe is not recommended because the creamy mascarpone and whipped cream can separate and become grainy when thawed. The fresh strawberry compote may also lose some of its bright flavor and texture after freezing.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is unnecessary and not advised. Simply let refrigerated parfaits sit out for a few minutes if they are too cold to enjoy immediately, and then dive in!

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry compote?

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be chopped and mixed with a little sugar to create a quick, fresh compote substitute. Keep in mind that compote offers a thicker, syrupy texture that holds the parfait layers together well.

Is there a dairy-free version of this parfait?

You can try swapping mascarpone with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and heavy cream with a plant-based whipping cream. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

Active preparation takes about 20 to 30 minutes, plus chilling time which adds about 40 minutes. It’s a great make-ahead treat that lets you relax and enjoy when serving time comes.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of making my own?

While store-bought whipped cream can work in a pinch, making your own whipped cream as the recipe suggests provides the best flavor and texture, especially with the touch of vanilla.

Can this dessert be made for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use larger or multiple glass containers for assembling. It’s a fantastic dessert for parties since it’s easy to portion and looks beautiful served individually.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe as much as I do. It’s a wonderful, impressive dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to put together. Perfect for any occasion where you want to delight guests or treat yourself to a little creamy, fruity bliss. Go ahead, give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes your favorite go-to dessert!

Strawberry Cream Parfait Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 29 reviews

Author: Amina
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Strawberry Cream Parfait is a luscious, layered dessert featuring creamy mascarpone cheese and whipped cream mixed with sweet strawberry compote, combined with crunchy graham cracker crumbs. It’s a no-bake, chilled treat perfect for summer or any occasion when you crave a light and elegant dessert.

Ingredients

Mascarpone Mixture

8 oz. mascarpone cheese
3/4 cup strawberry compote (or strawberry preserves), plus extra for filling shooters

Whipped Cream Topping

3/4 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp clear vanilla extract

Graham Cracker Mixture

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 tbsp granulated sugar
4 tbsp butter, melted

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Instructions

Prepare Mascarpone Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and 3/4 cup strawberry compote. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute until the ingredients are well blended. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and set.
Make Whipped Cream Topping: Chill a medium bowl, then add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until frothy, about 1 minute, then increase to high speed and continue mixing until stiff peaks form, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer the whipped cream to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, twist the end, and refrigerate alongside the mascarpone mixture.
Prepare Graham Cracker Mixture: Just before assembling the parfaits, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Assemble the Parfaits: Using six 4-ounce glasses, layer the ingredients in the following order: start with 2 teaspoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture, and pat down gently with the back of a spoon. Add 2 teaspoons of the mascarpone mixture, patting down gently. Top this with 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of strawberry compote or preserves. Repeat with another 2 teaspoons of graham crumbs, then 2 teaspoons of mascarpone mixture, and a final 1.5 to 2 teaspoons of strawberry compote. Finish by piping or spooning the whipped cream topping on each parfait.
Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate the assembled parfaits for 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the layers to set. Garnish each glass with fresh strawberries before serving for an additional burst of fresh fruit flavor.

Notes

Use chilled bowls and utensils when whipping cream for better volume and stability.
The graham cracker crumb mixture should be prepared last to keep it from getting soggy.
For best flavor, use fresh strawberries as garnish.
You can substitute strawberry compote with fresh mashed strawberries sweetened lightly if preferred.
This dessert is best served within 24 hours to maintain texture and freshness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American