Name: Cranberry Parfait Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 tbsp sugar; ½ cup graham cracker crumbs; 14 oz low-fat sweetened condensed milk; ½ cup cranberry sauce; 1 cup cold whipping cream

This cranberry parfait is a delightful blend of creamy and tangy flavors, perfect for a refreshing and light dessert. The layers of whipped cream, cranberry, and graham cracker crumbs create a harmonious texture that will leave your taste buds craving more. Ideal for any festive occasion or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Photos of Cranberry Parfait Recipe

One of the key ingredients you might not have at home is low-fat sweetened condensed milk. It's a crucial component for adding sweetness and creaminess to the parfait without making it too rich. Cranberry sauce is another ingredient that might not be a staple in your pantry, but it's essential for adding that signature tart flavor.

Ingredients For Cranberry Parfait Recipe

unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the graham cracker crumbs.

sugar: Sweetens the graham cracker crumbs.

graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy texture and a base layer for the parfait.

low-fat sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and creaminess without being too rich.

cranberry sauce: Gives a tart and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.

cold whipping cream: Adds lightness and a fluffy texture to the parfait.

One reader, Ilyssa Canty says:

This cranberry parfait recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of sweetened condensed milk and cranberry sauce creates a creamy, tangy filling, while the graham cracker crumbs add a perfect crunch. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it's a hit at any gathering!

Ilyssa Canty

Key Techniques for Crafting a Delicious Cranberry Parfait

How to melt butter: Explanation on how to melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it is fully liquefied. How to stir and cook with sugar: Explanation on how to stir in sugar with melted butter and cook until it starts bubbling. How to toast graham cracker crumbs: Explanation on how to add graham cracker crumbs to the skillet and stir until the color deepens. How to blend with a hand mixer: Explanation on how to use a hand mixer to blend condensed milk and cranberry sauce until the mixture thickens. How to beat whipping cream: Explanation on how to use an electric mixer to beat cold whipping cream until firm peaks form. How to fold ingredients: Explanation on how to gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture to maintain its airy texture. How to layer parfait: Explanation on how to layer the cranberry mixture and graham cracker crumbs in glasses. How to refrigerate properly: Explanation on how to refrigerate the parfaits for the specified time to ensure proper setting.

How To Make Cranberry Parfait

This cranberry parfait beautifully layered with crunchy Graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream, and tart cranberries is perfect for the holidays.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Cool Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspunsalted butter
3tbspsugar
½cupgraham cracker crumbs
14ozlow-fat sweetened condensed milk,(1 can)
½cupcranberry sauce
1cupcold whipping cream

Instructions

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and cook until bubbling, about 1 minute.
Add the graham cracker crumbs; stir until the color deepens, about 3 minutes. Turn out onto a plate to cool.
Combine the condensed milk and cranberry sauce in a mixing bowl, blend together with a hand mixer until the mixture thickens.
Place the whipping cream in a separate bowl and beat with an electric mixer until firm peaks form; fold into the cranberry mixture.
Layer ¼ cup of the cranberry mixture into each of the six glasses; top each with 1 tablespoon of the crumbs.
Repeat layering. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour up to 4 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 460.70kcal
Fat: 25.01g
Saturated Fat: 15.22g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.38g
Carbohydrates: 55.05g
Fiber: 0.33g
Sugar: 52.51g
Protein: 6.49g
Cholesterol: 81.97mg
Sodium: 136.55mg
Calcium: 223.24mg
Potassium: 296.99mg
Iron: 0.37mg
Vitamin A: 209.11µg
Vitamin C: 2.42mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Cranberry Parfait

To achieve perfectly firm peaks when beating the whipping cream, ensure that both the cream and the mixing bowl are well-chilled. This will help stabilize the cream and make it easier to fold into the cranberry mixture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cranberry Parfait

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before you start. This will streamline the process and prevent any delays.

Use pre-made crumbs: Opt for store-bought graham cracker crumbs to save time on crushing them yourself.

Chill the bowl: Place the whipping cream bowl in the freezer for a few minutes before beating. This helps the cream whip faster.

Microwave butter: Melt the butter in the microwave instead of a skillet to save a few minutes.

Premade cranberry sauce: Use store-bought cranberry sauce to skip the step of making it from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Parfait Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor that complements the cranberry.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slight floral note that pairs well with the tartness of cranberry.
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor, making them a great alternative.
low-fat sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with full-fat sweetened condensed milk: Full-fat sweetened condensed milk can be used for a richer texture and flavor.
cranberry sauce - Substitute with raspberry sauce: Raspberry sauce offers a similar tartness and sweetness, providing a different berry flavor.
cold whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be whipped to a similar consistency and adds a unique tropical flavor.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Cranberry Parfait

Use elegant glassware: Choose tall, slender glasses to create a sophisticated look for your cranberry parfait. This will enhance the visual appeal and make the layers more prominent.
Create distinct layers: Ensure each layer of cranberry mixture and graham cracker crumbs is clearly defined. Use a piping bag for the cranberry mixture to achieve clean, precise layers.
Garnish with fresh cranberries: Top the final layer with a few fresh cranberries and a small mint leaf to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Add a touch of zest: Grate a small amount of orange zest over the top layer to introduce a hint of citrus aroma and flavor, which complements the cranberry sauce beautifully.
Serve on a decorative plate: Place each glass on a decorative plate with a small spoon. This adds an extra layer of elegance and makes the presentation more refined.
Drizzle with cranberry reduction: Create a cranberry reduction by simmering cranberry sauce with a bit of sugar until thickened. Drizzle this reduction around the base of the glass on the plate for added visual appeal and flavor.

Essential Tools for Making a Perfect Cranberry Parfait

Skillet: Used to melt the butter and cook the graham cracker crumbs until they deepen in color.
Spatula: Handy for stirring the butter, sugar, and graham cracker crumbs in the skillet.
Plate: Needed to cool the graham cracker crumbs after cooking.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the condensed milk and cranberry sauce.
Hand mixer: Essential for blending the condensed milk and cranberry sauce until the mixture thickens.
Separate bowl: Required for whipping the cream.
Electric mixer: Used to beat the whipping cream until firm peaks form.
Spoon: Useful for folding the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture.
Glasses: Used for layering the cranberry mixture and graham cracker crumbs to create the parfait.
Refrigerator: Necessary for chilling the parfaits for at least 1 hour up to 4 hours.

Storing and Freezing Cranberry Parfait: A Guide

The cranberry parfait can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the parfaits to chill thoroughly.
If you want to make the parfaits ahead of time, prepare the graham cracker crumb layer and the cranberry mixture separately. Store the crumbs in an airtight container at room temperature and the cranberry mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, assemble the parfaits as directed.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled parfaits. However, keep in mind that the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze:
- Assemble the parfaits in freezer-safe glasses or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Cover the parfaits tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To serve, remove the parfaits from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight. The texture may be slightly different from freshly made parfaits, but they will still taste delicious.
If you have leftover cranberry sauce, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cranberry sauce in the refrigerator before using it in the parfait recipe.

Interesting Fact About Cranberry Parfaits

A fun fact about this cranberry parfait recipe is that it combines the tartness of cranberry sauce with the sweetness of sweetened condensed milk, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Is Making Cranberry Parfait at Home Cost-Effective?

This cranberry parfait recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and cranberry sauce are affordable and easily accessible. The use of whipping cream adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12. Considering the delightful taste and simplicity, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Cranberry Parfait Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cranberry parfait recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The use of butter and sugar in the graham cracker crumb layer adds unnecessary saturated fat and empty calories.
Sweetened condensed milk is high in sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess.
Whipping cream is also high in saturated fat and calories, further increasing the overall calorie count of the dessert.

However, the recipe does include some redeeming qualities, such as the use of low-fat sweetened condensed milk and the inclusion of cranberry sauce, which provides some nutritional benefits like vitamin C and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the graham cracker crumb layer with a mixture of rolled oats, nuts, and a small amount of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness and added fiber.
Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in place of the sweetened condensed milk to reduce sugar and calorie content while increasing protein.
Swap the whipping cream with whipped coconut cream or whipped aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) for a lower-fat, vegan-friendly alternative.
Increase the amount of cranberry sauce used and reduce the amount of sweetener added to the yogurt mixture to emphasize the natural tartness of the cranberries and cut down on added sugars.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Cranberry Parfait

This cranberry parfait recipe is a delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors. The buttery graham cracker crumbs add a satisfying crunch, while the combination of sweetened condensed milk and cranberry sauce creates a luscious, fruity filling. The whipped cream folded into the mixture ensures a light and airy texture. It's an elegant yet simple dessert, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort. Refrigerating the parfaits allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Enhance Your Cranberry Parfait Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the velvety smoothness of roasted butternut squash mingling with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm, comforting soup is the perfect prelude to the sweet and tangy layers of your cranberry parfait.

Grilled Chicken Salad: Grilled Chicken Salad: A vibrant grilled chicken salad with a medley of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the parfait. The juicy chicken adds a satisfying protein punch.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Herb-Crusted Salmon: Picture a succulent herb-crusted salmon fillet, perfectly seared and served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The savory, aromatic herbs will beautifully complement the sweet and tart notes of the cranberry parfait.

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil: Crisp bruschetta topped with a vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This light and flavorful appetizer will set the stage for the delightful layers of your cranberry parfait.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Spinach and Strawberry Salad: A refreshing spinach and strawberry salad with toasted almonds and a poppy seed dressing. The sweet and tangy strawberries echo the flavors of the cranberry parfait, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Cranberry Parfait

Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait: Dive into layers of creamy cheesecake goodness and fresh blueberries. This parfait is a delightful mix of tangy and sweet, perfect for any dessert lover.

Mango Yogurt Parfait: Experience the tropical flavors of ripe mangoes combined with creamy yogurt. This parfait is a refreshing and healthy treat that will transport you to a sunny paradise.

Strawberry Shortcake Parfait: Indulge in the classic combination of juicy strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender shortcake. This parfait is a nostalgic dessert that never goes out of style.

Peach Cobbler Parfait: Savor the taste of summer with layers of sweet peaches, crunchy cobbler topping, and creamy vanilla pudding. This parfait is a comforting and delicious treat.

Apple Pie Parfait: Enjoy the flavors of a classic apple pie in a convenient parfait form. With spiced apples, cinnamon crumbs, and a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Cranberry Parfait Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and filling them with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling combined with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms creates a perfect bite-sized treat.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with caprese skewers. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a dash of olive oil. These vibrant and refreshing skewers are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor, making them an ideal starter for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent chicken dish, marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that bursts with flavor.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with these vibrant bell peppers, filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is both hearty and nutritious. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance.

Why trust this Cranberry Parfait Recipe:

This cranberry parfait recipe is a delightful blend of sweetened condensed milk and cranberry sauce, creating a creamy and tangy dessert. The graham cracker crumbs add a satisfying crunch, while the whipping cream ensures a light and airy texture. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the combination of classic flavors and straightforward preparation to deliver a delicious and impressive treat.

Share your thoughts on the Cranberry Parfait Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this delightful dessert even better!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you'll need to cook them down with some sugar and water to make a sauce first. It might take a bit more time, but it'll work just fine.

Can I make this parfait ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated, and it'll be ready to go when you are.

What if I don't have a hand mixer?

No worries! You can use a whisk to blend the condensed milk and cranberry sauce. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but it'll get the job done.

Can I use full-fat sweetened condensed milk instead of low-fat?

Sure thing! Full-fat sweetened condensed milk will make the parfait a bit richer and creamier, which is never a bad thing in my book.

What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even ginger snaps for a different flavor twist.