If you’re craving a dessert that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, you’re going to fall in love with this Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe. Layers of rich, fudgy brownie cubes, sweet and tangy cherry pie filling, and light, creamy whipped cream made with a touch of cream cheese make every spoonful a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a dessert that’s as stunning to serve as it is satisfying to eat, and it’s sure to become your new go-to when you want something special without a fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, but they each play an essential role in bringing the Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe to life. From the decadent chocolate brownies providing depth and density to the luscious cherry pie filling adding a burst of fruity brightness, every component contributes to a symphony of taste and texture.
- 18-20 oz box brownie mix: A shortcut that delivers rich, gooey chocolate flavor—Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate is my favorite for an extra decadent touch.
- 21 oz can cherry pie filling: Sweet, tangy, and bursting with cherries, this brings a juicy contrast that perfectly complements the chocolate.
- 4 oz package cream cheese (room temperature): Adds a silky tang and stability to the whipped cream, turning it into a luscious satin layer.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to airy perfection, it adds a fluffy cloud of lightness that balances the denser brownie pieces.
- 3 Tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream just enough without overpowering the other flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A hint of warmth and depth that rounds out the cream cheese whipped cream beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially bringing out the richness of the chocolate and the brightness of the cherries.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe
Step 1: Bake and Cube the Brownies
Start by making the brownies according to the package instructions. I love using a high-quality mix like Ghirardelli for that rich chocolate punch every time. Once baked and cooled, cut them into small, bite-sized cubes to ensure they layer nicely in the parfait glasses and create a satisfying texture contrast in every mouthful.
Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese
While the brownies cool, whip the cream cheese until soft and fluffy with an electric mixer. This step is key because it ensures your whipped cream mixture comes together silky smooth, without lumps, creating a creamy layer you’ll adore.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream to Soft Peaks
In a large bowl, whip your heavy cream on medium speed until soft peaks form—this means when you lift the beaters, the cream gently holds its shape but still feels light and airy.
Step 4: Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream
Gently add the softened cream cheese to the whipped cream and increase the mixer speed to high. Beat until stiff peaks form, which will give you a thick and stable cream base. Then mix in the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if you like your parfaits a touch sweeter. This cream cheese whipped cream can even be prepared a day in advance and kept chilled for convenience.
Step 5: Assemble Your Parfaits
Now the fun part—layering! Start by placing a generous layer of brownie cubes at the bottom of your parfait glasses. Spoon over some cherry pie filling for that burst of juicy fruitiness, followed by a dollop of the cream cheese whipped cream. Repeat the layers to fill your glasses, finishing with a beautiful swirl of whipped cream on top. If you’re feeling fancy, add a cherry on top to crown your creation. Keep your parfaits chilled until you’re ready to wow your guests or enjoy a perfect treat yourself.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little garnish can take your Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe from wonderful to absolutely stunning. Think fresh cherries, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or even a dusting of cocoa powder. These touches make it not just a tasty dessert but a presentation piece that’s sure to impress.
Side Dishes
Although these parfaits are decadent enough to stand on their own, pairing them with a lightly bitter espresso or cappuccino can complement the sweetness beautifully. For a more summery feel, serve alongside a simple fresh fruit salad to keep things light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
While parfait glasses are classic, feel free to get creative with mason jars for a rustic vibe or small trifle bowls for a family-style dessert. Layering in clear containers lets those gorgeous colors and textures shine, making these parfaits as visually delightful as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or lids to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of any fridge odors. The layers actually meld together nicely, intensifying flavors overnight.
Freezing
Because of the whipped cream and cherry pie filling, freezing isn’t ideal for preserving the parfait’s texture—the cream can become grainy and the cherries watery. For best results, enjoy these parfaits fresh or within a couple of days.
Reheating
These parfaits are served chilled and should not be reheated. If you want the brownies warm, try just heating the brownies separately before assembling the parfaits for a warm-cold contrast that’s simply divine.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies will add a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste. Just bake them, let cool, and cube as directed for the parfaits.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream cheese whipped cream?
You can try using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream whipped until stiff peaks form. The texture will differ slightly but it still creates a creamy, dreamy layer perfect for this dessert.
How far in advance can I assemble the parfaits?
For best texture, assemble the parfaits a few hours ahead of serving. You can prepare the components a day prior and layer them just before serving to keep the brownie cubes from becoming soggy.
Can I substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruits?
Definitely! Blueberry, raspberry, or even peach pie fillings work wonderfully and offer a new flavor dimension while keeping the same layering magic.
What if I don’t have an electric mixer? Can I still make the whipped cream?
Whipping cream by hand is possible but takes some elbow grease—use a large chilled bowl and a whisk, and whip vigorously until you see soft peaks form. It might take a bit longer, but the results are rewarding!
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe enough. It hits all the right notes—quick to make, visually gorgeous, and absolutely delicious. Whether you want a fuss-free dessert for friends or a special treat for yourself, these parfaits are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite dessert that never disappoints.
Print
Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Chocolate Cherry Brownie Parfaits combine rich, fudgy brownie cubes with luscious cherry pie filling and a light, fluffy cream cheese whipped cream for a delightful layered dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 18–20 oz box brownie mix (Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Brownie Mix recommended), prepared with eggs and oil according to package directions
Cherry Layer
- 21 oz can cherry pie filling
Cream Cheese Whipped Cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 Tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Make the brownies according to the directions on the package. Once baked, allow them to cool, then cut into small cubes. Set aside for assembly.
- Whip Cream Cheese: Using an electric mixer, whip the cream cheese in a small bowl until it is soft and fluffy. Set this aside temporarily.
- Whip Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl and whip on medium speed with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Cream: Add the whipped cream cheese to the whipped cream and continue whipping on high speed until stiff peaks form. Then add powdered sugar, pinch of salt, and vanilla extract; whip briefly to combine. Taste and add more powdered sugar if a sweeter flavor is desired. This cream cheese whipped cream can be made up to a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Assemble Parfaits: In four parfait glasses, start by layering brownie cubes at the bottom. Add 1-2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling on top of the brownies, followed by 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese whipped cream. Repeat these layers to fill the glasses, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top. Optionally, garnish with a cherry. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- You can prepare the cream cheese whipped cream up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated to save time.
- Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream to your preferred level of sweetness.
- For a more decorative parfait, add whole cherries or chocolate shavings on top before serving.
- Use high-quality brownie mix or homemade brownies for better flavor.
