Ingredients
- 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
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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.
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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.
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Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined. Mixing thoroughly ensures a smooth and consistent filling.
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Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract, and stir well. Stirring well ensures even distribution of flavor.
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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.
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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.
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Add Cheesecake Layer: Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly. Spreading evenly ensures consistent layers.
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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.
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Add Crust Layer (Second Time): Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer. Adding another crust layer adds texture.
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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.
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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.
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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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Mixing, Assembling, Chilling
- Cuisine: American