Strawberry Cheesecake Parfait with Orange Cream and Cookie Crumbs
Fresh sliced strawberries layered with smooth orange-scented cheesecake cream and topped with buttery vanilla wafer crumbs create an elegant dessert perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. The cream cheese mixture is lightened with milk and brightened with orange juice and optional liqueur, while the toasted cookie crumbs add delightful texture. This make-ahead friendly dessert combines the classic flavors of cheesecake in a lighter, more refined presentation that showcases peak-season strawberries beautifully.
Ingredients
- 10 vanilla wafer cookies
- 2 teaspoons butter or margarine, melted
- ½ cup soft cream cheese, from 8-oz tub
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange-flavored liqueur(optional)
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, sliced (3 cups)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F
- 2
Place cookies in blender and blend on high speed until finely crushed
- 3
Mix cookie crumbs and butter in small bowl
- 4
Spread mixture on ungreased cookie sheet
- 5
Bake about 5 minutes or until golden brown
- 6
Beat cream cheese, sugar, milk, orange juice, and orange liqueur if using with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth
- 7
Divide strawberries among 4 large wine glasses or individual dessert dishes
- 8
Top each with about 1/4 cup cream cheese mixture
- 9
Sprinkle each with 2 tablespoons crumbs
Tips
Make the cream cheese mixture up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate for easier assembly
Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest texture and easiest mixing
Toast the cookie crumbs just before serving to maintain their crispy texture
Good to Know
Refrigerate assembled parfaits for up to 2 days, though cookie crumbs will soften over time
Make cream cheese mixture up to 24 hours ahead; assemble parfaits up to 4 hours before serving
Serve chilled in wine glasses or dessert bowls for elegant presentation
Common Mistakes
Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the mixture
Toast cookie crumbs just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries work best for texture and appearance, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used if drained well to prevent excess liquid.
What if I don't have orange liqueur?
The liqueur is optional and can be omitted without affecting the recipe, or substitute with orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Assembled parfaits keep for up to 2 days refrigerated, though the cookie crumbs will gradually soften over time.