Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- Parfait glasses or jars
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries have softened and the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
4. To assemble the parfaits, spoon a layer of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each glass or jar. Top with a layer of the cherry mixture, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses or jars are full, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
5. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Cook over medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 442
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 97mg
Sodium: 154mg
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh cherries can be substituted with frozen cherries.
- Graham cracker crumbs can be substituted with crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
- Heavy whipping cream can be substituted with whipped topping or coconut cream.
Variations:
- Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cherry mixture and whipped cream layers.
- Use different fruit combinations, such as blueberries and strawberries, or peaches and raspberries.
- Add a layer of chopped nuts or granola for added texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the cherry mixture has cooled completely before assembling the parfaits to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Use a piping bag to easily fill the parfait glasses or jars.
- Crush the graham crackers or cookies in a plastic bag with a rolling pin for easy cleanup.
Storage Instructions:
Store the parfaits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Not applicable.
Presentation Ideas:
- Top the parfaits with a fresh cherry or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
- Serve the parfaits in a clear glass to show off the layers.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cherries
- Whipped cream
- Graham cracker crumbs
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Grilled peaches
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cherry mixture is too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the whipped cream is too runny, continue to whip it until stiff peaks form.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash the cherries thoroughly before using them.
- Store the parfaits in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
Parfaits originated in France in the 19th century and were traditionally made with ice cream and fruit.
Flavor Profiles:
Sweet, tangy, and creamy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the parfaits as a dessert or a sweet snack.
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