Test Kitchen: Sargent Choice Berry Vanilla Cheesecake Parfaits

Sargent Choice Berry Vanilla Cheesecake Parfaits

Mia Sugarman, 4th Year Dietetics Major, Psychology Minor

Recipes modified from Recipe Runner
Yield: 4 servings

 Ingredients

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • Berries:
    • 1 cup fresh blueberries
    • 1 cup diced fresh strawberries

Directions

  1. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer with the whisk attachment, place the soft cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, salt, and vanilla bean paste into the mixing bowl.
  2. Beat the mixture on medium high speed, scraping down the sides once or twice, until it is fluffy and smooth.
  3. In a small bowl combine the diced strawberries with the teaspoon of sugar and toss together until coated.
  4. Using 4 small glasses, layer the parfaits starting with a layer of blueberries, then the cheesecake, then a layer of strawberries, and finishing with a little more cheesecake.
  5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

What We Liked

  • The parfait was fun to make with friends!
  • This dish was sweet but not too rich!
  • The soft cream cheese created a smooth and light texture.
  • This could be enjoyed as a delicious dessert or a snack.

Suggestions

  • Add different toppings such as berries, dark chocolate or nuts.
  • Store the cheesecake and toppings separately and combine when ready to eat.
  • For a thicker texture, store the cheesecake in the fridge for a longer duration prior to serving.

Nutritional Value

  • Cream cheese and Greek yogurt provide protein, which helps with lasting satiety, in addition to calcium, which plays a role in bone health.
  • Fresh berries provide antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C to help support immune health.