Blueberry Lemon Parfait
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
For the Blueberry Layer:
1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Lemon Cream Layer:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
For Garnish:
Fresh blueberries
Lemon zest
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Divide the crust mixture among your parfait glasses, pressing it down slightly to form an even base layer. Set aside.
Prepare the Blueberry Layer:
In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, mashing the berries as they heat.
Once the mixture comes to a simmer, cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices.
If you'd like a thicker blueberry layer, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add to the blueberry mixture, stirring for another 1-2 minutes. Let the mixture cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Cream Layer:
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Assemble the Parfaits:
Layer the parfaits by adding a spoonful of the cooled blueberry mixture on top of the graham cracker crust in each glass.
Add a layer of the lemon cream mixture over the blueberry layer.
Repeat the layers, ending with a lemon cream layer on top.
Garnish and Serve:
Top each parfait with fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
These blueberry lemon parfaits are a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy, with a crunchy base. Enjoy this refreshing treat!