Red Velvet Cherry Parfait Recipe

Imagine a dessert where luscious layers of fluffy red velvet cake, billowy clouds of whipped cream, and juicy sweet cherries all meet in a single glass—this is the magic of Red Velvet Cherry Parfait. It’s a visual showstopper with its striking layers and vibrant colors, and every spoonful is a dreamy mix of tangy, sweet, and creamy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just giving yourself a well-deserved treat, this Red Velvet Cherry Parfait is pure joy in every bite, and irresistibly easy to assemble!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this parfait is in its simplicity—just a handful of essential ingredients, each chosen for the wonderful way it brings out the best in the final dish. Every layer serves a purpose, adding a unique flavor, texture, or color to your Red Velvet Cherry Parfait.

• Red velvet cake (baked and cooled): The iconic deep red cake brings a hint of cocoa flavor, striking color, and a super moist bite—perfect as the base.
• Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting: Choose for your mood! Light, airy whipped cream gives a creamy contrast, while cream cheese frosting adds luxurious tang.
• Cherry pie filling or strawberry topping: Sweet-tart, syrupy cherries drape over the layers, infusing every forkful with juicy freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Red Velvet Cherry Parfait

Step 1: Crumble the Cake

Start by gently crumbling your red velvet cake into bite-sized, fluffy hunks. You don’t want powdery crumbs here—a bit of texture means the parfait holds together beautifully, and each scoop rewards you with tender cake pieces.

Step 2: Whip or Soften the Cream

If you’re using fresh whipped cream, make sure it’s whipped to soft peaks for easy layering. If you prefer cream cheese frosting, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip so it’s extra light and easily spoonable between layers.

Step 3: Prep the Cherry Topping

Open your cherry pie filling (or strawberry topping, if preferred), and give it a quick stir to loosen it up. If you like, add a splash of cherry liqueur or kirsch for a grown-up twist to your Red Velvet Cherry Parfait.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Choose clear glasses or jars so those gorgeous stripes can shine. Start with a layer of red velvet cake crumbles, spoon a generous scoop of whipped cream or frosting on top, then drizzle with cherry topping. Repeat the layers, finishing with extra cream and a glorious crown of cherries.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your assembled Red Velvet Cherry Parfaits and chill for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and ensures every bite is cool, creamy, and refreshing.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cherry Parfait

Garnishes

Bring extra sparkle to your Red Velvet Cherry Parfait with a scattering of chocolate curls, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a few fresh mint leaves. A single cherry on top never goes unnoticed, and a mini heart-shaped cookie perched on the rim is just irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your parfait with something light and bubbly—a glass of sparkling wine or a cherry spritzer is pure delight. For a cozy touch, serve with crisp butter cookies or almond biscotti alongside each parfait glass.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress these parfaits up for any occasion! Try assembling mini Red Velvet Cherry Parfaits in shot glasses for parties, or layer them in a big trifle dish for a show-stopping centerpiece your guests can scoop themselves. Even mason jars with little ribbons make them perfect for picnics or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Red Velvet Cherry Parfait in the refrigerator, tightly covered. The flavors become even more delicious as they rest, and the parfaits will stay fresh for up to three days—though honestly, they rarely last that long!

Freezing

If you’d like to prepare ahead, assemble the parfaits (minus the whipped cream topping) and freeze them individually. When you’re ready to serve, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and then add the fresh cream or frosting and cherries just before serving for maximum lusciousness.

Reheating

Parfaits are best enjoyed chilled rather than warmed, so skip reheating. If the parfaits firm up too much in the fridge or freezer, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly, bringing them back to their creamy, dreamy best.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Cherry Parfait with store-bought cake?

Absolutely! Grab a ready-made red velvet cake from your favorite bakery or supermarket to save time—the results are just as luscious and beautiful.

Can I use another fruit topping?

Definitely. While cherries add that classic tang and color, strawberry or raspberry topping work beautifully too. Feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors.

Is there a lighter option for the cream?

Yes! Try using Greek yogurt or light whipped topping for a fresher, lower-calorie layer without sacrificing creaminess. Your Red Velvet Cherry Parfait will still shine.

How can I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Crumble the cake into bigger chunks and chill the parfait just long enough for the flavors to mingle, but not so long that the layers melt into each other. Assembling right before serving also helps!

Can I make Red Velvet Cherry Parfait dairy-free?

Of course! There are wonderful dairy-free whipped toppings and vegan red velvet cake recipes out there. Use coconut cream for a rich, plant-based alternative that’s just as indulgent.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, you can’t go wrong with Red Velvet Cherry Parfait. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a personal treat all at once—easy to make, impossible to forget. Your next party (or cozy night in) just found its new signature sweet! Give it a try, and let those lovely layers steal the show.

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