ADVERTISEMENT

Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits: A Festive and Flavorful Dessert in a Glass

As the crispness of autumn settles in and the air turns cooler, there’s something irresistibly cozy about desserts that highlight the best of the season’s flavors. One such dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings and holiday feasts is the Cranberry Cheesecake Parfait. This dessert offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and creamy elements that will captivate your taste buds with every spoonful. The cranberry chutney gives it a bright, fruity pop, while the vanilla bean cheesecake filling adds a luxurious smoothness. The sweet graham crumble gives it a crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft, creamy layers.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits: A Festive and Flavorful Dessert in a Glass

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Looking for a show-stopping dessert? These Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits are the answer! 🍓✨ With velvety cheesecake and a sweet-tart cranberry compote, each bite is a burst of flavor in a jar. Perfect for your next celebration or as a sweet indulgence after a meal. Ready to serve up some holiday cheer? 🌟🎉
#CheesecakeParfait 🧀 #CranberryDelight 🍓 #FestiveDesserts 🎄 #SweetAndTart 💖 #HolidayTreats 🌟 #GuiltFreeIndulgence 🍰 #BakingJoy 🧑‍🍳 #SeasonalSweets 🍪 #DessertInAGlass 🍴 #HolidayFlavors ✨

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Graham Crumble Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (about 1012 sheets of graham crackers)
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple sauce
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of ground ginger (optional)

For the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks

For the Cranberry Chutney:

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 large apple, peeled and diced
  • 1 pear, peeled and diced
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Graham Crumble Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, honey, apple sauce, ground cinnamon, and ginger. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed and the crumbs are evenly coated.
  3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and press it into an even layer.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crumbs are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and powdered sugar, and mix until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The result should be light, fluffy, and mousse-like.
  3. Chill the cheesecake filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly before assembling the parfaits.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Chutney

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, diced apple, diced pear, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Continue simmering for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens slightly.
  3. Remove from heat and allow the chutney to cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits

  1. In individual glasses or jars, start by adding a layer of the graham crumble crust to the bottom. Press it down gently to form an even layer.
  2. Next, spoon a generous amount of the vanilla bean cheesecake filling on top of the graham crust. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon.
  3. Top with a spoonful of the cranberry chutney, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake filling.
  4. Repeat the layers until the glasses or jars are filled, finishing with a layer of cranberry chutney on top for color and flavor.
  5. Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the parfaits to set.

Notes

  • Graham Cracker Crust: If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Alternatively, you could use crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a slightly different flavor.
  • Cheesecake Filling: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which will give the filling a tangier taste. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream as a base.
  • Cranberry Chutney: If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. For a twist on the chutney, add a splash of brandy or rum while simmering for a deeper flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: These parfaits are wonderful as a stand-alone dessert, but they also pair well with a warm cup of spiced cider or a glass of dessert wine. You can garnish them with extra whipped cream, candied pecans, or a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of elegance.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

This recipe is a perfect example of how to take classic cheesecake flavors and give them a fun twist. Rather than a traditional cheesecake, these parfaits come in individual servings, making them an ideal dessert for both large gatherings and intimate meals. With layers of graham crumble, velvety vanilla cheesecake filling, and a tangy cranberry chutney, each bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors, making it a showstopper for any occasion, especially during the holiday season.

Whether you’re looking for an easy-to-make alternative to pie or cheesecake, or you simply love the tartness of fresh cranberries combined with the smooth richness of cheesecake, this dessert will quickly become a favorite. And the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Why Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits?

There are a few reasons why cranberry cheesecake parfaits stand out as a perfect dessert for the fall and winter months. First and foremost, cranberries are a beloved seasonal fruit that appear in markets as the holidays approach. Their tangy flavor is the perfect complement to the richness of cheesecake. Paired with the creamy filling and graham crumble, cranberries provide a bright, refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded dessert.

Additionally, these parfaits offer an elegant presentation that’s both simple and sophisticated. Served in individual glasses or jars, they can be beautifully layered and decorated, making them an attractive option for holiday parties or dinners. Plus, the ease of assembling the parfaits means you don’t have to worry about the intricate details of baking or slicing a pie or cheesecake. These parfaits are perfect for anyone who loves dessert but wants to keep things simple, yet delicious.

The Components of Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits

To make the cranberry cheesecake parfaits, you’ll prepare three distinct components: the graham crumble crust, the cheesecake filling, and the cranberry chutney topping. Each part is easy to make and comes together quickly, resulting in a dessert that’s not only delicious but also manageable to assemble. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into each layer:

1. Graham Crumble Crust

The graham crumble crust is the base of the parfait, adding sweetness and crunch to the dessert. This layer is reminiscent of the crust in a traditional cheesecake, but it’s a bit more rustic, offering a tender and slightly chewy texture. You’ll use graham cracker sheets, melted butter, honey, and apple sauce, with a dash of spice for warmth. The combination of these ingredients results in a rich and flavorful crust that perfectly complements the creaminess of the cheesecake layer.

2. Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Filling

For the cheesecake filling, you want something light and airy, but still rich and indulgent. Instead of the dense, traditional cheesecake filling, this recipe uses a mousse-like combination of cream cheese, sour cream, whipped cream, and vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract). The result is a fluffy, creamy filling that’s not too heavy, with a subtle vanilla flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberry chutney. The tangy cream cheese and sour cream balance out the sweetness of the graham crumble and the cranberry chutney, making each bite feel like a harmonious blend of flavors.

3. Cranberry Chutney

The star of this dessert is the cranberry chutney, which is made by simmering fresh cranberries with diced apples and pears, along with orange zest, orange juice, and a variety of warm spices. This chutney is a little sweet, a little tangy, and full of aromatic flavors. The tartness of the cranberries is mellowed out by the sweetness of the apples and pears, while the citrus and spice add a layer of complexity. The chutney becomes a vibrant topping for the parfait, adding both color and flavor. It’s the perfect way to showcase the seasonal cranberry, and its texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake and crumbly graham crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Making these cranberry cheesecake parfaits involves preparing each component and layering them into glasses or jars. Below are the step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process.

Ingredients

For the Graham Crumble Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 sheets of graham crackers)
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple sauce
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of ground ginger (optional)

For the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks

For the Cranberry Chutney:

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 large apple, peeled and diced
  • 1 pear, peeled and diced
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Graham Crumble Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, honey, apple sauce, ground cinnamon, and ginger. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed and the crumbs are evenly coated.
  3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and press it into an even layer.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crumbs are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and powdered sugar, and mix until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The result should be light, fluffy, and mousse-like.
  3. Chill the cheesecake filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up slightly before assembling the parfaits.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Chutney

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, diced apple, diced pear, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Continue simmering for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens slightly.
  3. Remove from heat and allow the chutney to cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits

  1. In individual glasses or jars, start by adding a layer of the graham crumble crust to the bottom. Press it down gently to form an even layer.
  2. Next, spoon a generous amount of the vanilla bean cheesecake filling on top of the graham crust. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon.
  3. Top with a spoonful of the cranberry chutney, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake filling.
  4. Repeat the layers until the glasses or jars are filled, finishing with a layer of cranberry chutney on top for color and flavor.
  5. Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the parfaits to set.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  • Graham Cracker Crust: If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Alternatively, you could use crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a slightly different flavor.
  • Cheesecake Filling: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which will give the filling a tangier taste. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream as a base.
  • Cranberry Chutney: If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. For a twist on the chutney, add a splash of brandy or rum while simmering for a deeper flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: These parfaits are wonderful as a stand-alone dessert, but they also pair well with a warm cup of spiced cider or a glass of dessert wine. You can garnish them with extra whipped cream, candied pecans, or a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of elegance.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry cheesecake parfaits are the perfect dessert for those who enjoy the rich, indulgent taste of cheesecake but are looking for something a little different. With their fresh cranberry chutney, creamy vanilla filling, and sweet graham crumble, these parfaits are a vibrant, festive option that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday celebration or simply indulging in a cozy treat at home, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Enjoy the beauty of the season with these delicious parfaits that capture the essence of fall in every bite.

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

ADVERTISEMENT