Peach and Cream Parfait Recipe – A Delicious, Easy-to-Make Dessert
1. Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a sweet, refreshing dessert that’s both light and indulgent, look no further than a peach and cream parfait. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, combining the natural sweetness of fresh peaches with the smooth, velvety richness of whipped cream. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just enjoying it as a sweet treat after dinner, this parfait is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fresh fruit and cream.
The best part about this peach and cream parfait is how simple it is to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a stunning layered dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, it’s fully customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want to make it extra creamy, add a crunchy granola layer, or switch up the fruits. In this post, I’ll guide you through the steps of making this delightful parfait, share tips for perfecting it, and offer some fun variations to try. Let’s get started!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious and easy peach and cream parfait:
For the Parfait:
- Fresh Peaches (2 large): The star of the parfait! Fresh peaches are sweet, juicy, and fragrant, adding a burst of summer flavor to each bite. You can use canned peaches in syrup if fresh ones are not in season, but fresh peaches will give the parfait the best texture and flavor. Be sure to slice them thinly for easy layering.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Heavy cream is the base for the creamy component of the parfait. It’s rich and decadent, giving the parfait a luxurious mouthfeel. For a lighter version, you can substitute with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream.
- Powdered Sugar (2 tablespoons): Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the whipped cream. It dissolves quickly and creates a smooth, fluffy texture. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A touch of vanilla adds depth to the whipped cream and complements the peach flavor. You can also experiment with almond extract or a bit of lemon zest for an added twist.
- Greek Yogurt (½ cup, optional): Greek yogurt can be added to the whipped cream for extra creaminess and a slight tang. It’s optional but adds a nice balance to the sweetness of the peaches and whipped cream.
For the Crunch:
- Granola (½ cup): Granola adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements of the parfait. You can use store-bought granola or make your own with oats, nuts, and a touch of honey. Feel free to use your favorite granola flavor or substitute with crushed nuts for a different texture.
- Almonds (¼ cup, sliced, optional): For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle some sliced almonds between the layers. They add a nice nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the peaches.
Common Substitutions:
- Cream: For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk-based whipping cream.
- Yogurt: If you don’t like Greek yogurt, you can skip it altogether or substitute with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
- Sweeteners: If you prefer a less sweet parfait, you can use honey, maple syrup, or stevia instead of powdered sugar.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your peach and cream parfait:
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
- Peel and slice the peaches into thin wedges. Make sure to remove the pit carefully. You can also cut the peaches into smaller chunks if you prefer. Set them aside in a bowl. If you’re using canned peaches, be sure to drain them well to remove excess syrup.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream on medium speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can turn into butter. If you’re adding Greek yogurt, fold it gently into the whipped cream at this point.
Step 3: Layer the Parfait
- In serving glasses or bowls, start by layering a spoonful of whipped cream at the bottom. Then add a layer of sliced peaches, followed by a sprinkle of granola or sliced almonds for crunch.
- Repeat the layers, alternating between whipped cream, peaches, and granola until you’ve filled the glasses. Finish the top with a dollop of whipped cream, a few extra peach slices, and a sprinkle of granola for garnish.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Place the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together. This also helps the parfaits set and become more refreshing. Serve chilled, and enjoy!
4. Tips and Variations
- For a Creamier Parfait: You can add more heavy cream or use full-fat whipped cream for an extra-rich texture. Adding a little Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can also make it more decadent.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you prefer a dairy-free parfait, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based whipped cream alternative. Use non-dairy yogurt in place of Greek yogurt as well.
- More Fruits: Experiment with different fruits! Berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries pair wonderfully with peaches. You can also try mangoes or a mix of stone fruits for variety.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness based on your preference. If you like it less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also skip the sugar altogether if the peaches are sweet enough.
- Make it Festive: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped cream for a warm, spicy twist. You could also drizzle a bit of honey on top for extra sweetness.
5. Serving Suggestions
Peach and cream parfaits are perfect on their own, but you can serve them alongside other treats or dishes for a more elaborate dessert spread:
- With Biscotti or Shortbread: Serve the parfait with a side of crunchy biscotti or buttery shortbread cookies for extra texture.
- Salads or Grilled Dishes: Pair the parfait with a light salad or grilled meats, like chicken or fish, for a balanced meal.
- Brunch: Peach and cream parfaits are a great addition to a brunch spread. They’re easy to serve and look beautiful in small glasses.
Drink Pairing: Pair your parfait with a glass of sparkling water, iced tea, or a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing combination.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover parfaits in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep the granola separate if possible, as it can lose its crunch if stored with the parfait.
- Freezing: These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the whipped cream layer and peaches separately for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge for a few hours and assemble the parfaits.
- Reheating: There’s no need to reheat parfaits, as they are best enjoyed chilled. Simply assemble and store until ready to serve.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: You can prepare the whipped cream and slice the peaches ahead of time. Just assemble the parfaits a few hours before serving for the best results.
- Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches are always the best choice for this recipe, but if they’re out of season, frozen peaches can work as a substitute.
- Customize the Layers: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different layers. Add granola, nuts, or other fruits like strawberries or blackberries for variety.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
- Ingredients:
- 2 large fresh peaches, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (optional)
- ½ cup granola
- ¼ cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 2 large fresh peaches, sliced
- Instructions:
- Slice the peaches.
- Whip the cream and powdered sugar.
- Layer the whipped cream, peaches, and granola in serving glasses.
- Chill and serve.
- Slice the peaches.
- Notes: Can be prepped ahead. Best with fresh peaches.
- Nutrition: See nutrition table above.
🏷️ Diet Tags: Gluten-Free Option, High-Fiber
🌿 Health Benefits: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from peaches.
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
This peach and cream parfait is a perfect dessert for any occasion—simple, refreshing, and full of flavor. I hope you enjoy making it and that it brings a smile to your face every time you take a bite. Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below, and feel free to share any variations you try. Happy cooking!