Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait

Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait

Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of sweet, creamy indulgence layered with vibrant, juicy blueberries. This easy-to-make and visually stunning treat brings together the classic flavors of cheesecake and fresh berries, creating a comforting experience for the senses. It’s perfect for gatherings as a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone craving more. With just a few simple ingredients and step-by-step directions, you can whip up this family-friendly recipe that evokes nostalgia and brightness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait stands out for its easy preparation and the minimal cooking required, making it a key recipe for both novice and experienced caterers alike. The vibrant colors are as pleasing to the eyes as the taste is to the palate. With layers of creamy cheesecake filling and buttery biscuit crumble, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to please dessert lovers of all ages. Plus, the combination of sweet blueberries and rich white chocolate adds a gourmet touch that feels fancy yet is simple enough for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 400 g frozen blueberries (14 oz / 2¾ cups) – these plump berries burst with juice, offering a tangy sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – a zesty addition that brightens the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons sugar – just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the blueberries.
• 125 g digestive biscuits (4.4 oz) – these crunchy biscuits add a pleasant texture to the parfait.
• 42 g unsalted butter, melted (3 tablespoons) – adds richness to the biscuit base.
• 180 g white chocolate (6.3 oz / roughly 1 cup chopped) – creamy and velvety, it brings decadence.
• 125 ml whipping cream (½ cup) – for a light and airy texture that makes this dessert indulgent.
• 250 g low-fat cream cheese, softened (or full-fat) (8.8 oz / 16.5 tablespoons) – the heart of the cheesecake, rich and creamy.
• 125 ml low-fat sour cream, room temperature (or full-fat) (½ cup) – it adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavors with its aromatic profile.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Blueberry Layer

In a saucepan, combine 400 g frozen blueberries, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries soften and the mixture thickens into a syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Make the Biscuit Base

Place 125 g digestive biscuits in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Add 42 g melted unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Divide the biscuit mixture evenly among serving glasses or jars, pressing it down gently to form an even layer at the bottom. Place in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a heatproof bowl, melt 180 g white chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly. In a large bowl, beat 250 g low-fat cream cheese, 125 ml low-fat sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Add the cooled melted white chocolate and mix well.

In a separate bowl, whip 125 ml whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a luscious cheesecake filling.

Assemble the Parfaits

Spoon or pipe a layer of the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base. Add a layer of the blueberry mixture on top. Repeat the layers as desired, ending with the blueberry layer. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set. For a finishing touch, consider topping with extra fresh blueberries or a dollop of whipped cream for garnish.

Tips & Tricks

• Choose the Right Berries: While frozen blueberries work well, using fresh ones when in season can elevate the flavor.
• Let the Chocolate Cool: Allow the melted white chocolate to cool adequately before mixing it with cream cheese to prevent curdling.
• Chill Thoroughly: Letting the parfaits chill long enough ensures better flavor melding and structural integrity.
• Add Texture: For added crunch, you can layer in some chopped nuts or granola between layers.
• Garnish Creatively: Fresh mint leaves can add a lovely touch for presentation, elevating the visual appeal further.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

The Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait makes an ideal dessert for summer barbecues, birthday parties, or casual family dinners. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful end to any meal. It also complements a light brunch beautifully, offering a sweet touch when served alongside quiches or savory pastries.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, this Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the proportion of cream cheese used and whether full-fat or low-fat ingredients are chosen. The parfait provides a balanced mix of carbs from the biscuits and sugars, healthy fats from the cream and butter, and a source of protein from cheese. Enjoying this dessert in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they are tightly covered to prevent the layers from drying out. You can also freeze the blueberry sauce for later use. For variations, consider swapping blueberries with raspberries or strawberries to create a berry medley parfait. Alternatively, use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or make it entirely sugar-free using a suitable sweetener.

Conclusion

The Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait is a must-try recipe that will surely impress friends and family alike. Its balance of flavors, beautiful presentation, and ease of preparation makes it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to bring this recipe into your kitchen—try it today and feel free to share your experience; your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh blueberries can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are particularly juicy.

2. Is there an alternative to white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute white chocolate with a sugar-free chocolate or omit it entirely for a lighter version, although this may alter the creaminess.

3. Can I prepare these parfaits a day in advance?
Absolutely! These parfaits actually benefit from being prepared a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully as they chill overnight.

4. What can I use instead of digestive biscuits?
Graham crackers or gingersnap cookies can be excellent alternatives to digestive biscuits, offering a different flavor profile while maintaining the crunch.

5. How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuits or look for ready-made gluten-free crumbles available in stores. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait!

Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait

A delightful dessert combining creamy cheesecake layers and vibrant blueberries, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 375

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Blueberry Layer

• 400 g 400 g frozen blueberries These plump berries burst with juice, offering a tangy sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons lemon juice A zesty addition that brightens the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons sugar Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the blueberries.

For the Biscuit Base

• 125 g 125 g digestive biscuits These crunchy biscuits add a pleasant texture to the parfait.
• 42 g 42 g unsalted butter, melted Adds richness to the biscuit base.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 180 g 180 g white chocolate Creamy and velvety, it brings decadence.
• 125 ml 125 ml whipping cream For a light and airy texture.
• 250 g 250 g low-fat cream cheese, softened The heart of the cheesecake, rich and creamy.
• 125 ml 125 ml low-fat sour cream, room temperature Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavors.

Method

 

Prepare the Blueberry Layer

1. In a saucepan, combine 400 g frozen blueberries, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries soften and the mixture thickens into a syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Make the Biscuit Base

1. Place 125 g digestive biscuits in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Add 42 g melted unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Divide the biscuit mixture evenly among serving glasses or jars, pressing it down gently to form an even layer at the bottom. Place in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a heatproof bowl, melt 180 g white chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, beat 250 g low-fat cream cheese, 125 ml low-fat sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooled melted white chocolate and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whip 125 ml whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a luscious cheesecake filling.

Assemble the Parfaits

1. Spoon or pipe a layer of the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base. Add a layer of the blueberry mixture on top. Repeat the layers as desired, ending with the blueberry layer.
2. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Notes

Choose fresh berries when in season for the best flavor. Allow melted chocolate to cool adequately before mixing to prevent curdling. Let the parfaits chill for better flavor melding and structure.