Desserts > Parfaits > Italian Parfaits

Vanilla-Mascarpone Strawberry Parfait Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granola

Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Parfait glasses

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

4. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone cheese until well combined.

5. To assemble the parfaits, spoon a layer of the strawberry mixture into the bottom of each parfait glass.

6. Top the strawberries with a layer of the mascarpone mixture, followed by a layer of granola.

7. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full, ending with a layer of granola on top.

8. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving size:
- Makes 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 470
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 26g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of mascarpone cheese, you can use cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
- Instead of granola, you can use crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers.

Variations:
- Substitute the strawberries with other fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
- Add a layer of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Use a piping bag to fill the parfait glasses for a neater presentation.

Storage instructions:
- Store the parfaits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- None

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the parfaits in clear glass jars or bowls to show off the layers.
- Top with a fresh strawberry or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
- Fresh strawberries
- Mint leaves

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a special occasion.

Suggested side dishes:
- None

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mascarpone mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly before slicing.

Food history:
- Parfaits originated in France and were traditionally made with ice cream and fruit.

Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, creamy, and fruity.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light and refreshing dessert after a meal.

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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Tangy, Vanilla, Fruity