Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits

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Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits are the ultimate holiday treat that brings together festive cheer and creamy indulgence in a single jar. Each spoonful offers layers of silky cheesecake mousse, moist red velvet cake crumbs, and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies for a cool crunch. Served in jars or glasses, these parfaits not only taste delightful but also look like a winter wonderland dessert.

Perfect for Christmas parties, New Year gatherings, or a cozy night by the fire, these make-ahead treats are easy to prepare and serve. They require no baking if using store-bought cake, making them an ideal dessert option for busy holiday hosts who still want to impress. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for a unique dessert gift, these parfaits are sure to become a seasonal staple.

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What Kind of Cake or Crumbs Should I Use?

While traditional cheesecake sits on a graham cracker crust, these parfaits go all-in with red velvet cake layers for color and flavor. You can bake a red velvet cake from scratch, use a boxed mix, or even repurpose leftover cake. The vibrant red crumb adds a bold visual contrast to the creamy filling and the peppermint topping. Want a twist? Chocolate cake or brownie crumbles would also work wonderfully.

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Ingredients for the Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits

• Red Velvet Cake Crumbs: Adds festive color and rich cocoa flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Essential for that classic cheesecake tang and creamy texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped into the filling for a light and fluffy mousse.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer without a gritty texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Boosts the flavor depth of the mousse.
• Peppermint Extract: A small splash infuses the parfait with cool mint.
• Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle on top for crunch and seasonal flair.
• Jars or Glasses: To layer and serve the parfaits beautifully.

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How To Make the Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits

Step 1: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream to create a mousse-like filling.

Step 3: Layer the Parfaits

Start with a layer of red velvet crumbs at the bottom of each jar or glass. Spoon or pipe a generous layer of the cheesecake filling on top. Repeat the layers until you reach the top.

Step 4: Garnish

Finish with a swirl of cheesecake mousse and a generous sprinkle of crushed candy canes.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the parfaits for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mousse to firm up. Serve chilled.

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Serving and Storing These Parfaits

These parfaits are best served chilled straight from the fridge. They can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. The candy cane topping may soften over time, so for the best crunch, add it right before serving. If you want to freeze them, skip the candy cane topping until ready to eat.

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What to Serve With Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits?

Hot Chocolate or Peppermint Mocha

The cool minty flavors in the parfaits pair perfectly with a warm, rich drink.

Gingerbread Cookies

A spicy-sweet counterpart to the creamy layers.

Sparkling Cranberry Punch

A bubbly drink keeps things festive and complements the peppermint.

Fruit Platter with Grapes and Berries

Adds a refreshing balance and color contrast on your dessert table.

Vanilla Ice Cream

For those who love extra creamy desserts with a cold twist.

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Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits, you’ll be head over heels for these other treats:

• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls for a fruity and creamy dessert mash-up.
• White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake if you’re craving something decadent and elegant.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for a handheld twist on cheesecake.
• Cheesecake Fruit Salad for a lighter, summer-ready version.
• Pecan Pie Cheesecake for Southern charm with a creamy finish.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe swapped in brownies or added dark chocolate chips? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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