No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfaits Recipe
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfaits Ingredients:For the Graham Cracker Crust:Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups): Provides a crunchy and buttery layer, with a lower calorie count when used in moderation.
Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness.
Butter (7 tablespoons, melted): Used to bind the crumbs together. To reduce SmartPoints, consider using a lower-fat butter substitute or an oil spray.For the Cheesecake Layer:
Cream Cheese (1 8-ounce package, softened): Use reduced-fat or light cream cheese to lower the SmartPoints.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 14-ounce can): Opt for a lower-calorie version or use a sugar-free substitute to reduce SmartPoints.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (⅓ cup): Adds a refreshing tartness.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor with its aromatic essence.For the Cherry Pie Filling:
Cherry Pie Filling (1 21-ounce can): Choose a reduced-sugar or light version to cut down on SmartPoints.
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfaits Directions:
Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Add Butter: Pour in 7 tablespoons of melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
Beat the Cream Cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, beat 1 package of softened reduced-fat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gradually add 1 can of lower-calorie or sugar-free sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until fully combined.
Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla: Stir in ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well blended.
Assemble the Parfaits:
First Layer – Graham Cracker Crust: In 6 plastic, 9-ounce punch cups, scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly.
First Layer – Cheesecake: Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup, spreading it out evenly.
First Layer – Cherry Pie Filling: Distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the cups.
Second Layer – Graham Cracker Crust: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer in each cup.
Second Layer – Cheesecake: Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the cups.
Final Layer – Cherry Pie Filling: Top each parfait with the remaining cherry pie filling.
Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle a bit of the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top for decoration.
Serve or Chill:
Immediate Enjoyment: Serve the parfaits immediately for a fresh, creamy dessert.
Chill: Alternatively, chill the parfaits for up to 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.Storage and Reheating TipsStorage: Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 2 days.
Reheating: No reheating needed; these parfaits are best enjoyed chilled.
Helpful Tips for Enhancing the RecipeUse Fresh Lemon Juice: For a brighter, natural flavor.
Softening Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
Chill the Parfaits: For a firmer texture and enhanced flavor.
Graham Cracker Alternatives: Experiment with different types of cookies for a unique twist.
Homemade Pie Filling: Consider making your own cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
Layering Technique: Use a piping bag for neat layering.
Decorative Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh cherry for a beautiful presentation.
Mix Up the Fruit: Substitute cherry pie filling with other fruits like blueberry, strawberry, or peach.Weight Watchers SmartPoints and Nutrition Information
SmartPoints (per serving, assuming 6 servings):
Freestyle Points: 8 SmartPointsWW Points and other Slimming or Weight Loss programs:
Due to plans regularly changing and updating, we recommend calculating with the official tools you get as a member to those plans to ensure accuracy of values.Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 51g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 40g
Protein: 6gI await your comments! Enjoy!
