Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Greek yogurt; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Highlighted under: Clean Cooking

I love making Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits as a refreshing dessert that's both easy and delightful. With layers of creamy cheesecake yogurt, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, each bite is a burst of flavor. This recipe is perfect for warm days or when I crave something sweet without too much effort. I enjoy serving them in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a simple treat at home.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:41:37.053Z

When I first created these Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits, I wanted to capture the essence of a classic strawberry cheesecake but make it lighter and easier to prepare. The combination of fluffy yogurt and cream cheese creates a delightful texture that reminds me of my favorite dessert, yet it’s refreshing enough for any occasion. The addition of fresh strawberries truly enhances the flavor profile.

One of my favorite tips is to layer the ingredients in glass jars, allowing the vibrant colors of the strawberries and the creamy yogurt to shine through. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also keeps the parfaits neatly organized. On particularly warm days, these parfaits are my go-to dessert for a satisfying yet light finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy with a hint of tang from the cream cheese
Fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute dessert

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For the best flavor and texture in your Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits, use high-quality Greek yogurt. Look for brands that contain live cultures to add a probiotic boost. The thickness of Greek yogurt helps create that creamy cheesecake consistency without needing added thickening agents. If you prefer a lower-fat option, a strained non-fat Greek yogurt can still yield delicious results, though the texture may be slightly different.

When selecting strawberries, freshness is key. Choose bright red, plump strawberries with a fresh green stem for the best sweetness. Always wash them gently to avoid bruising, and remove the hulls carefully so they can be sliced evenly. For variety, feel free to substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, but keep in mind that different fruits can affect the overall flavor profile.

Perfecting the Layers

Creating distinct layers is essential for both presentation and flavor distribution in your parfaits. When layering, it's vital to let each layer set for a moment. Start by spooning in the cheesecake mixture, pressing it gently to create a solid base. This not only helps keep the layers from mixing but also allows easy removal when serving. You can also use a piping bag to add the cheesecake filling; this gives you precise control and a neat layered look.

As you pile in the strawberries and graham cracker crumbs, consider alternate layering strategies for visual appeal. For instance, you might mash some strawberries for a natural sauce to add between the layers, enhancing the flavor while still keeping the integrity of the parfait intact. This adds both taste and a beautiful pink hue, showcasing the vibrant layers more effectively.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your parfaits:

For the Parfaits

2 cups Greek yogurt
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup graham cracker crumbs

These ingredients combine beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your parfaits:

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This will be the cheesecake layer of your parfait.

Layer the Ingredients

In clear glasses or jars, add a layer of the cheesecake filling followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Sprinkle a layer of graham cracker crumbs on top. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and enjoy the delightful flavors!

These steps ensure that your parfaits are assembled beautifully and efficiently.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these parfaits with your favorite fruits or add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits make an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can assemble them 1-2 days in advance, but I recommend not adding the graham cracker crumbs until just before serving. This keeps them crunchy and prevents them from becoming soggy. Store the parfaits covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

If you're prepping for a gathering, consider portioning the cheesecake filling and strawberries into separate containers. This allows guests to customize their parfaits, picking the amount of each ingredient to suit their tastes. It saves time and ensures everyone enjoys a fresh and delicious treat!

Variations and Customizations

To switch things up, try incorporating different flavor extracts into your cheesecake filling. Almond extract or even a splash of lemon juice can offer a unique twist, adding depth to the sweetness of the strawberries. You can also substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies or nuts for added texture and flavor diversity.

For a chocolate version, mix in cocoa powder with the cream cheese mixture to mimic chocolate cheesecake. Layer with bananas for a delightful pairing or sprinkle some mini chocolate chips among the layers for an extra treat. These variations keep the recipe fresh and exciting, perfect for different occasions!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble them just before serving for the best texture.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese to make this a vegan dessert.

→ How long do these parfaits keep in the fridge?

They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.