Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits are a decadent dessert layered with rich brownies, macerated strawberries, and luscious strawberry cream cheese whipped cream. This quick and easy-to-make recipe is perfect for entertaining or treating yourself. The blend of chocolate, strawberries, and cream creates a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Simple Syrup:

1 pound fresh strawberries (sliced)
2 cups water
2 cups sugar

For the Simple Syrup Macerated Strawberries:

1 pound strawberries (sliced)
2 tablespoons sugar
¼ cup strawberry simple syrup

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons strawberry simple syrup
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)

For the Parfait Base Layer:

2 cups brownies (chopped)

Optional Garnish:

Chocolate shavings

Directions

Make the Strawberry Simple Syrup:
- Combine strawberries, water, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture boils. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, discard solids, and let the syrup cool.
Prepare the Macerated Strawberries:
- In a bowl, mix sliced strawberries, sugar, and strawberry simple syrup.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours recommended).
Prepare the Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream:
- In a mixer bowl, combine heavy cream, sugar, and strawberry simple syrup. Whisk until thickened.
- Add softened cream cheese and mix until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Parfaits:
- Divide brownie pieces evenly among serving glasses.
- Drizzle each layer with strawberry simple syrup.
- Add a layer of macerated strawberries.
- Add a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese whipped cream.
- Repeat the layers as desired, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh strawberries.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving, approximately)

Calories: 858 kcal
Carbohydrates: 125 g
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 39 g
Saturated Fat: 21 g
Cholesterol: 113 mg
Sodium: 300 mg
Potassium: 268 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 103 g
Vitamin A: 1269 IU
Vitamin C: 67 mg
Calcium: 89 mg
Iron: 3 mg

Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits are a visually stunning and delicious dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to be a hit!

A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

What sets Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits apart is their harmonious blend of flavors and textures:

Richness: The fudgy brownies provide a deep chocolate base that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Freshness: Macerated strawberries add a juicy, slightly tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the other layers.
Creaminess: The strawberry cream cheese whipped cream is light yet indulgent, tying all the elements together.
Layered Presentation: The alternating layers of brownies, strawberries, and whipped cream create a visual masterpiece, adding to the dessert’s appeal.

This interplay of flavors and textures ensures that every bite is as satisfying as the last.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits are versatile enough to suit any event or gathering:

Casual Treats: Serve them as an easy yet impressive dessert for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Celebrations: The elegant presentation makes them ideal for holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries.
Entertaining: Prepare them in advance for dinner parties to wow your guests without stress.
Gifting: Assemble them in mason jars for a unique and thoughtful edible gift.

Their adaptability and universal appeal make them a dessert you can count on for any occasion.

The Star Ingredients

Brownies

The brownies are the foundation of this dessert, bringing a rich chocolatey flavor and chewy texture. Homemade brownies provide the best flavor, but store-bought options work well for convenience. For extra depth, consider using dark chocolate or adding a touch of espresso powder to your brownie recipe.

Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are key to the parfait’s vibrant flavor. The maceration process enhances their natural sweetness and juiciness, while the strawberry simple syrup infuses even more strawberry flavor into the dish.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Whipped Cream

This luxurious layer combines the lightness of whipped cream with the tangy richness of cream cheese. The addition of strawberry simple syrup elevates the flavor, creating a smooth, fluffy topping that complements the brownies and strawberries perfectly.

Why This Dessert Works So Well

The success of Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits lies in their thoughtful construction and balance of elements:

Sweet and Tangy Contrast: The strawberries’ tangy brightness cuts through the richness of the brownies and whipped cream.
Layering Technique: The layers not only create visual appeal but also ensure each bite contains all the flavors.
Customization Potential: The recipe is flexible, allowing for variations that cater to individual tastes or dietary needs.
Ease of Preparation: Despite their sophisticated appearance, these parfaits are simple to assemble, requiring minimal cooking skills.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best things about this dessert is its versatility. Here are some ideas for customizing your parfaits:

Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate ganache between the layers for extra indulgence.
Berry Medley: Include raspberries or blueberries along with the strawberries for a mixed berry version.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, between layers for added crunch and flavor.
Healthier Options: Use low-fat cream cheese, light whipped cream, or gluten-free brownies for a lighter version.
Kid-Friendly: Substitute the strawberry simple syrup with a mild fruit juice or skip it entirely for a less sweet variation.

Tips for Perfect Parfaits

Follow these tips to ensure your Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits turn out perfectly every time:

Choose Ripe Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries yield the best flavor and natural sweetness.
Cool the Brownies: Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before chopping to maintain their structure in the parfait.
Chill the Cream: Keep the heavy cream and cream cheese cold before whipping to achieve the best consistency.
Layer Neatly: Use a piping bag or spoon to layer the cream for a clean, professional presentation.
Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Serving Suggestions

While these parfaits are delightful on their own, you can elevate the experience with thoughtful pairings:

Beverages: Serve with a glass of sparkling rosé, a hot cup of coffee, or a refreshing strawberry lemonade.
Side Treats: Pair with crisp cookies, such as shortbread or biscotti, for added texture.
Garnishes: Enhance the presentation with a dusting of cocoa powder, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprig of mint.

These pairings add an extra layer of sophistication, making the parfaits suitable for even the most elegant occasions.

Why Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits Are a Must-Try

Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits offer the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and bursting with flavor, making them a dessert that never fails to impress. Their adaptability ensures that they can be tailored to suit any palate, while their elegant presentation makes them a centerpiece-worthy dish.

Conclusion

Strawberry and Brownie Parfaits are a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds: the decadence of chocolate and the freshness of strawberries. Their layers of flavor, texture, and color make them a treat that delights all the senses. Whether you’re serving them at a celebration or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, these parfaits are sure to leave a lasting impression. Try this recipe for your next gathering or dessert craving, and savor the magic of this irresistible creation!

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