Strawberry Parfaits - PST-Algerie

Indulge in these delicious Strawberry Parfaits! This easy-to-make dessert layers creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and crunchy vanilla wafer crumbs for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 1/2 quarts strawberries, hulled and cubed

2 tbsp granulated sugar

2 cups vanilla wafer or graham cracker crumbs

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

12 oz Neufchatel cream cheese

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk (regular or low fat)

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)

Instructions

1. Macerate Strawberries

In a medium-sized bowl, toss the cubed strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir and set aside for 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

2. Prepare Vanilla Wafer Crumbs

In a separate bowl, combine the vanilla wafer crumbs with the melted butter, mixing until evenly moistened. Set aside.

3. Make Cheesecake Layer

Using an electric mixer, whip together the Neufchatel cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 of the whipped topping, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble Parfaits

Start layering your parfaits:

Place 2 heaping tablespoons of the cheesecake cream at the bottom of each serving glass.

Follow with 2 heaping tablespoons of the buttered crumbs.

Then add 2 heaping tablespoons of the macerated strawberries.

Repeat these layers until the glasses are full, finishing with a layer of cheesecake cream on top. (Reserve a small amount of crumbs for garnishing, if desired.)

5. Garnish

Top each parfait with a few crumbs and divide the remaining whipped topping evenly among the parfaits. Decorate with one whole berry on top of each parfait for an elegant finish.