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; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration

I love making Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits because they perfectly blend my favorite cheesecake flavors with a healthy twist. This recipe is super simple and comes together in just a few minutes. The creamy yogurt captures the richness of cheesecake, while fresh strawberries add a burst of sweetness. It's the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack. Plus, the vibrant layers are visually stunning, making it a favorite for special occasions or casual get-togethers.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:53:36.042Z

When I first tried making these parfaits, I was amazed at how effortlessly delicious they turned out. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet strawberries, and a hint of vanilla made for a delightful treat that felt indulgent yet healthy. I also decided to layer in some crushed graham crackers to create that classic cheesecake vibe, and it truly took it to the next level.

The key here is to use fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the flavor. I recommend macerating them with a touch of sugar before layering—it brings out their natural sweetness and juiciness, making every bite a burst of flavor. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delightfully creamy yogurt mimicking classic cheesecake texture
Fresh strawberries brighten the layers and offer a natural sweetness
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or impressive desserts

A Taste of Cheesecake in Every Bite

The blend of Greek yogurt and cream cheese in this parfait offers a delightful creaminess that closely resembles traditional cheesecake. Greek yogurt not only adds a protein boost but also a tangy depth that complements the sweetness of the cream cheese. The mixture should be beaten together until it reaches a velvety texture—this ensures an even distribution of flavors and a satisfying mouthfeel. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with additional Greek yogurt to maintain the cheesecake essence.

Using full-fat cream cheese yields a richer flavor, but you can opt for a lower-fat variety if desired. Just remember that lower-fat options may alter the creaminess slightly, so ensure you mix well to avoid lumps. For a non-dairy alternative, try a combination of dairy-free cream cheese and coconut yogurt; the subtle coconut flavor can add an interesting twist, making the parfait suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Creating Perfect Layers

Layering is crucial to the success of your Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits. Start with a spoonful of the yogurt mixture at the bottom of your glass to create a stable base. Follow this with a generous spoonful of the macerated strawberries, making sure to capture the luscious juices. The graham cracker crumbs should be added last, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess above. For visual appeal, use clear serving glasses to showcase the vibrant red strawberries against the creamy white layers.

To ensure the parfaits maintain their structure, let each layer sit for a moment before adding the next. This allows the ingredients to settle properly and prevents them from mixing undesirably. If you're preparing the parfaits ahead of time, layer them in jars with tight lids to help keep the ingredients fresh for 24 hours. Just remember to wait until right before serving to add the graham cracker crumbs to keep them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious treat!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits

2 cups Greek yogurt
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs

Once you have everything ready, you can start assembling the parfaits!

Instructions

Here’s how to make the parfaits step by step.

Prepare the Creamy Mixture

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

Macerate the Strawberries

In a separate bowl, sprinkle the sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar and let them sit for about 5 minutes to draw out their juices.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving glasses or bowls, layer the yogurt mixture, macerated strawberries, and graham cracker crumbs. Repeat the layers until glasses are full.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt Parfaits!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of honey on top before serving.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with the flavors in your parfaits! Instead of strawberries, you can substitute your favorite berries like blueberries or raspberries. Each will impart its unique flavor and color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish. Additionally, incorporating a layer of fruit puree, such as raspberry or mango, between the layers can introduce a whole new dimension of flavor and an attractive presentation.

You could also play with flavors by adding a bit of lemon or lime zest to the yogurt mixture for a citrusy kick that brightens the overall flavor profile. If you’d like a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder or finely chopped dark chocolate into the graham cracker crumbs to create a chocolate crust layer.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If making these parfaits for a gathering, you can prepare the components ahead of time. The yogurt and cream cheese mixture can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly to maintain its freshness. The maceration of strawberries can also be done earlier in the day; just strain them if you find they release too much juice before assembly.

Assembled parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to keep them at their best, assemble them no more than a few hours before serving. This will prevent the graham cracker crumbs from losing their crunch. Use smaller, individual jars or cups to make it easy for guests to grab and enjoy, especially at larger gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and the cream cheese with a vegan alternative.

→ How long can I store the parfaits?

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What other fruits can I use?

You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a different flavor!