These Lemon Curd Parfaits are a delightful and refreshing dessert, perfect for any occasion. Layers of creamy vanilla or lemon-flavored filling, tangy lemon curd, and a crunchy base create a light and satisfying treat. The individual servings make them elegant and easy to serve.
Ingredients:
For the Base Layer (Choose one):
- Option 1 (Crushed Cookies): 1 cup crushed digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or shortbread cookies
- Option 2 (Pound Cake): 1 cup cubed pound cake or sponge cake
For the Filling (Choose one):
- Option 1 (Vanilla Cream): 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup heavy cream
- Option 2 (Lemon Cream): 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 cup heavy cream
For the Lemon Curd:
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: If using crushed cookies, crush them finely. If using pound cake, cut it into small cubes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Vanilla Cream: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Lemon Cream: Follow the same steps as the vanilla cream, but add lemon juice and lemon zest instead of vanilla extract.
- Assemble Parfaits:
- In each glass or small jar, place a layer of the chosen base (crushed cookies or pound cake cubes).
- Top with a layer of the chosen filling (vanilla or lemon cream).
- Add a layer of lemon curd.
- Repeat layers until the glass is filled, ending with a layer of lemon curd on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set.
- Serve: Serve the Lemon Curd Parfaits chilled.
Tips and Notes:
- Lemon Curd: You can use store-bought lemon curd or make your own.
- Base Variations: You can use other types of cookies or cake for the base layer.
- Filling Variations: You can add other flavors to the filling, such as lime zest or orange extract.
- Garnish: Garnish the parfaits with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the parfaits ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Enjoy these delightful and refreshing Lemon Curd Parfaits!