Name: Layered Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping); 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled; 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional); 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate graham crackers; Chocolate shavings or chips, for garnish

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Layered Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits are a decadent no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, crushed cookies, and whipped topping. Served in individual glasses, these parfaits offer the perfect combination of rich flavor and elegant presentation without the need for baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for chocolate lovers and anyone looking for an easy yet impressive dessert. The layers of velvety chocolate cheesecake, crunchy cookie crumbs, and airy whipped topping provide a delightful contrast of textures. These parfaits are perfect for entertaining, portion-controlled, and can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream (or whipped topping)
Semi-sweet chocolate (melted and cooled)
Cocoa powder (optional)
Chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate graham crackers (crushed)
Chocolate shavings or chips for garnish

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until combined.
Slowly pour in the melted chocolate and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the chocolate mixture.
Prepare your parfait glasses by adding a layer of crushed cookies to the bottom.
Spoon or pipe a layer of the chocolate cheesecake filling on top of the cookie crumbs.
Repeat the layers until the glass is filled, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or chips.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 parfaits
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Use flavored cookies like mint or peanut butter chocolate for a twist.
Add a layer of raspberry jam or cherry compote between the cheesecake layers.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
Create a mocha parfait by adding espresso powder to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert.

FAQs

Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best type of chocolate to use?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor and smooth texture.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, it works well and simplifies the preparation process.

Can I make these in one large dish instead of individual servings?

Yes, layer the ingredients in a trifle bowl for a larger presentation.

Are these parfaits freezer-friendly?

It’s not recommended to freeze them, as the texture of the cream cheese filling may change.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free cookies for the crumb layer.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, but it will result in a sweeter filling. Adjust sugar if needed.

Is there a way to make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and chocolate for a dairy-free version.

How do I get neat layers?

Use a piping bag for the cheesecake filling and spoon the cookie crumbs carefully to keep layers clean.

Can I use mascarpone instead of cream cheese?

Yes, it will result in a slightly different flavor and creamier texture.

Conclusion

Layered Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits are the ideal dessert for those who love rich, creamy textures and indulgent chocolate flavors. Easy to assemble and beautiful to present, they make a wonderful treat for any occasion—from dinner parties to holiday feasts or simple family desserts.

Layered Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits

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Layered Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits are rich, no-bake desserts featuring layers of smooth chocolate cheesecake filling, crushed cookies, and whipped topping, served in individual glasses for an elegant and effortless treat.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 parfaits 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup heavy cream (or whipped topping)
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional)
1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate graham crackers
Chocolate shavings or chips, for garnish

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Slowly pour in the melted chocolate and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the chocolate mixture.
Prepare parfait glasses by adding a layer of crushed cookies at the bottom.
Spoon or pipe a layer of the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cookie crumbs.
Repeat the layers until the glass is filled, ending with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings or chips on top.
Chill the parfaits for at least 1 hour before serving.