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No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits: A Sweet Symphony of Simplicity

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No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits feature creamy cheesecake filling, graham cracker crust, and cherry pie filling. It’s a simple, layered dessert perfect for beginner cooks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 7 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust: In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Setting aside ensures the crust is ready when needed.

  • Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beating until smooth ensures a creamy filling.

  • Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined. Mixing thoroughly ensures a smooth and consistent filling.

  • Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract, and stir well. Stirring well ensures even distribution of flavor.

  • Assemble the Parfaits: Set 6 plastic, 9-ounce punch cups on the counter or a cookie sheet. Using punch cups or similar glassware allows for clear layering.

  • Add Crust Layer: Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly. Pressing lightly creates a firm base.

  • Add Cheesecake Layer: Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly. Spreading evenly ensures consistent layers.

  • Add Cherry Layer (First Half): Evenly distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the 6 cups, reserving the other half for another layer. Reserving half ensures layers are balanced.

  • Add Crust Layer (Second Time): Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer. Adding another crust layer adds texture.

  • Add Cheesecake Layer (Second Time): Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the 6 cups and spread out evenly. Using the remaining mixture completes the cheesecake filling.

  • Add Cherry Layer (Second Half): Divide the reserved cherry pie filling evenly between the 6 cups, then sprinkle the top with a little graham cracker crumb mixture. Adding the final cherry layer and crumbs completes the parfaits.   

  • Serve or Chill: Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the parfaits to set.

Notes

  • Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
  • Press graham cracker crust lightly for a firm base.
  • Chill parfaits for a firmer consistency.
  • Get creative with pie filling flavors.