Introduction
In the world of competitive baking, sometimes the greatest victories are achieved without ever turning on the oven. This recipe, the “Ultimate Layered Lemon Cheesecake Parfait,” was the undisputed champion of the 2023 National No-Bake Dessert Showcase—a standout among 12 incredible entries. It captures the luxurious texture of traditional cheesecake with the bright, zesty punch of fresh lemon, all held together by a buttery, crunchy graham cracker crumble. It’s quick to assemble, requires minimal effort, and delivers maximum elegance, making it the perfect dessert for entertaining during warm weather.
Ingredients
- 175 g (6 oz) Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened
- 120 ml (½ cup) Heavy Whipping Cream, chilled
- 100 g (½ cup) Granulated Sugar
- 60 ml (¼ cup) Fresh Lemon Juice
- Zest of 2 large lemons
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 180 g (6.5 oz) Graham Cracker Crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
- 80 g (5 tablespoons) Unsalted Butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare the Crumble Base (5 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of four individual parfait glasses or small jars. Reserve the remaining crumble for layering and topping.
Tip: Ensure the butter is fully melted but not hot, as hot butter can make the crumbs soggy. - Whip the Cream (4 minutes): Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip the cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator.
Tip: Use a chilled metal bowl and whisk attachment for faster, stiffer peaks. - Create the Cheesecake Base (3 minutes): In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently.
- Fold and Combine (2 minutes): Gently fold the reserved whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Use a light hand to ensure you don’t deflate the air in the whipped cream; this keeps the final texture light and airy.
- Assemble the Parfaits (5 minutes): Spoon or pipe the lemon cheesecake mixture over the crumble layer in the glasses. Alternate layers: crumble, cream, crumble, cream. Finish with a final layer of cream and a generous sprinkle of the remaining graham cracker crumble.
- Chill (4 hours minimum): Cover the parfaits loosely and refrigerate for at least four hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake mixture to set properly and the flavors to fully meld.
Time/Temperature: Chill at 4°C (40°F) for setting. No heat required.
Nutritional Information
Based on 4 servings, each parfait contains approximately 450-500 calories. This dessert is high in saturated fats and sugars due to the cream cheese and butter. However, it provides a good source of calcium (from the dairy) and Vitamin C (from the fresh lemon juice and zest). Enjoy this decadent treat in moderation!
Storage
Store leftover parfaits covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. They maintain their quality and texture for up to 3 to 4 days. Due to the high dairy content and delicate texture, freezing this dessert is not recommended as it will separate and become watery upon thawing.
Conclusion
This Layered Lemon Cheesecake Parfait is the epitome of no-bake excellence—a flawless blend of texture and flavor that impresses every time. For serving, garnish with a thin lemon slice, a fresh raspberry, or a sprig of mint just before presenting. For a fun variation, substitute the lemon juice and zest with lime juice and key lime zest for a tropical twist!