Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Chill the completed cups for up to 24 hours. The flavor improves overnight.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of pie filling?

Absolutely. Fresh fruit is lovely. If the fruit is watery, toss it with a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit to draw off juices. Spoon it on just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. Texture and tang will differ. Use a plant-based condensed milk substitute if you need the same sweetness level.

How many servings does this make?

The recipe makes six 9-ounce cups. They are on the small side, perfect for a family dessert or a party sampler.

Can children help make this?

Definitely. Kids can press crumbs, spoon layers, and pick garnishes. It makes cleanup lighter when they are involved and builds their confidence.

No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait

Description

A delightful No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait that offers a sweet, quick dessert experience perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
7 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling

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Instructions

In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter; set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined.
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract, stirring until creamy and shiny.
Set 6 plastic, 9-ounce cups on the counter or a cookie sheet. Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly.
Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly.
Evenly distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the 6 cups, reserving the other half for another layer.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer.
Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the 6 cups and spread out evenly.
Divide the reserved cherry pie filling evenly between the 6 cups, then sprinkle the top with a little graham cracker crumb mixture.
Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving.

Notes

For a lighter sweet, swap half the sweetened condensed milk for plain Greek yogurt. Also, consider chilling the cream cheese briefly before beating for a creamier texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American