Cherry Vanilla Chip Parfait

Cherry Vanilla Chip Parfait turns cherry chip cake into an easy layered dessert with vanilla whipped cream and maraschino cherries.

This Cherry Vanilla Chip Parfait is an easy, Valentine’s Day–ready layered dessert made with fluffy cherry chip cake, lightly sweetened vanilla whipped cream, and maraschino cherries. Served in individual jars or parfait cups, it’s a simple yet eye-catching treat that works for parties, potlucks, or even an everyday dessert.

Using cupcakes as the base keeps prep quick while still delivering plenty of cherry flavour and creamy texture in every bite.

Tips for Best Results

• Use Cupcakes as Base: Store-bought or homemade cherry chip cupcakes both work; just ensure they are fully cooled before layering.
• Whip Cream Properly: Beat the whipping cream with powdered sugar and a splash of cherry juice until stiff peaks form for a stable, fluffy layer.
• Layer Carefully: Alternate cake, cherries, and whipped cream evenly for the most visually appealing parfaits.
• Presentation Matters: Use clear jars or glasses to show off the pretty pink and red layers; top with a cherry and sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Make Ahead: Assemble parfaits up to 1 day in advance for easy entertaining.

How to Store

• Refrigerator: Store parfaits in airtight containers or cover jars with lids/plastic wrap for up to 2 days.
• Do Not Freeze: The whipped cream layer may separate if frozen. Best enjoyed fresh.
• Tip: Add the final whipped cream and cherry garnish right before serving for the best presentation.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Cherry Chip Cake: Use any cherry chip cake mix or your favourite cherry cake recipe. Cupcakes work best for portioning.
• Whipping Cream: Heavy cream or double cream works; avoid ultra-pasteurized if possible for better whipping results.
• Powdered Sugar: Can substitute with superfine sugar, but powdered gives the smoothest whipped cream.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure or imitation vanilla works.
• Maraschino Cherries: Use cocktail cherries if you want smaller, bite-sized options. Reserve juice to flavour the whipped cream.

Looking for More Valentine’s Day Desserts?

Cherry Vanilla Chip Parfait

Yields: 12 Servings | Prep time: 15 Minutes | Cook time: 22 Minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Cherry Chip Cake Mix, Prepared as Cupcakes
• 2 Cups Whipping Cream
• ¾ Cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 1 Jar Maraschino Cherries, juice reserved

Directions

1. Prepare cake mix as directed, making cupcakes.
2. Pour whipping cream, powdered sugar, 2 tbsp cherry juice, and vanilla in large mixing bowl. Beat with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
3. Crumble half of one cupcake into the bottom of a jelly jar or parfait cup. Top with three cherries.
4. Spoon a dollop of whipped cream over cherries, repeat until you reach the top of the dish. Garnish with additional whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry.

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Cherry Vanilla Chip Parfait

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Ingredients

• 1 Cherry Chip Cake Mix, Prepared as Cupcakes
• 2 Cups Whipping Cream
• ¾ Cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 Jar Maraschino Cherries, juice reserved

Instructions

1. Prepare cake mix as directed, making cupcakes.
2. Pour whipping cream, powdered sugar,2 TBS cherry juice, and vanilla in large mixing bowl. Beat with electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
3. Crumble half of one cupcake into the bottom of a jelly jar or parfait cup. Top with three cherries. Spoon a dollup of whipped cream over cherries, repeat until you reach the top of the dish. Garnish with additional whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

1 grams
Amount Per Serving: Unsaturated Fat: 0g

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