Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups Greek yogurt; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love making Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits, especially during the warmer months when fresh strawberries are at their peak. This recipe combines creamy yogurt with the delightful flavors of cheesecake and juicy strawberries, creating a light and refreshing dessert. Layering these ingredients in a glass not only looks beautiful but also allows each bite to deliver a burst of flavor. It's a great way to enjoy a classic dessert in a healthier, yet equally satisfying, version.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:25:36.660Z

Making these Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits has become a delightful tradition in my kitchen. I love the way the flavors come together; the tanginess of the yogurt balances perfectly with the sweet and tart strawberries. While experimenting with different types of yogurt, I found that using a blend of Greek yogurt and cream cheese yields a wonderfully creamy texture reminiscent of traditional cheesecake, but without all the heaviness.

One tip I swear by is letting the strawberries sit with a little sugar before layering them. This not only draws out their juices but also intensifies their flavor, making each bite irresistible. The trick of using crumbled graham crackers adds that essential cheesecake crunch, and suddenly, I have a dessert that feels indulgent but is still fairly wholesome.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of creamy yogurt combined with the classic flavor of cheesecake
Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness
Quick and easy to assemble for a last-minute dessert

Perfecting the Cheesecake Mixture

The key to a successful cheesecake mixture in your parfaits is ensuring that the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing. This step prevents lumps and guarantees a silky, creamy texture. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat; it should just be soft, not melted.

When combining the ingredients, use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and has a glossy appearance. This will take about 3-5 minutes. The powdered sugar provides sweetness without granularity, creating a uniform flavor throughout. Don't skip the vanilla extract, as it enhances the overall taste, giving your parfaits that classic cheesecake flavor.

Strawberry Preparation Tips

When preparing the strawberries, it's essential to let them sit with sugar for a few minutes to enhance their natural sweetness. The sugar draws out their juices, creating a syrupy mixture that adds moisture and flavor to the parfait layers. If you prefer less sweetness, you can adjust the sugar amount or skip it altogether, especially if your strawberries are already ripe and sweet.

Feel free to modify the strawberry preparation to your taste. For a touch of acidity, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to the strawberries after mixing with sugar. These ingredients can elevate the flavor profile and add depth, perfectly contrasting the rich cream cheese mixture.

Layering and Serving Suggestions

When layering your parfaits, use clear glass containers to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Start with the cheesecake mixture to create a sturdy base, followed by the strawberries, and then a sprinkling of graham cracker crumbs. Make sure to pack each layer gently but firmly to prevent them from collapsing. You can also use a piping bag for the cheesecake mixture to achieve cleaner layers and a more elegant presentation.

After chilling the parfaits for at least 15 minutes, visualize their vibrant layers coming together into a cohesive dessert. For added texture, consider using toasted nuts or shredded coconut in the graham cracker layer. These elements provide an unexpected crunch that balances the creaminess of the yogurt and cheese filling.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a separate bowl, toss together the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to release their juices.

Layer the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the cheesecake mixture, followed by a layer of strawberries, and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.

Chill and Serve

Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using flavored yogurt or adding a touch of lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits make an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the cheesecake mixture and strawberries up to a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just layer them in glasses right before serving to ensure the graham cracker crumbs remain crunchy.

If planning to store assembled parfaits, try to consume them within 24 hours for optimal freshness, as the strawberries can start to break down and release their juices over time. You can also keep the graham cracker mixture separate until ready to serve to maintain its texture.

Variations to Explore

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with various berry combinations. Blueberries or raspberries can be excellent substitutes for strawberries, and they bring their unique flavors to the dessert. You can also add a tablespoon of lemon or lime zest to the cheesecake mixture for a citrus twist that beautifully complements the berries.

To cater to dietary preferences, consider using dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese alternatives. Coconut yogurt can replace Greek yogurt, while cashew cream can substitute for cream cheese, still delivering a rich taste and maintaining that creamy texture. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness level of your alternative products for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess liquid in the parfaits.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

→ How long do these parfaits last?

They are best enjoyed the day they are made, but you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just assemble them and keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.