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Classic No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits with Whipped Mascarpone Cream

Close-up of layered strawberry shortcake parfaits in a mason jar, featuring strawberries, cream, and crumble topping.
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Create beautiful, individual strawberry shortcake parfaits layered with fresh strawberries, sweet shortbread crumbles, and a rich, creamy mascarpone topping. This no-bake dessert is quick to assemble and perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 package (6 ounces) shortbread cookies, crushed into coarse crumbs (for shortcake layer)

Instructions

  1. Combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Gently toss and let the strawberries macerate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes while you prepare the cream.
  2. In a separate large bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon zest, mixing until just combined.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully incorporated and smooth. Do not overmix. This is your best strawberry cream dessert topping.
  5. To assemble your individual strawberry dessert cups, start with a layer of crushed shortbread crumbs in the bottom of four glasses or small jars.
  6. Spoon a layer of the macerated strawberries over the crumbs.
  7. Top the strawberries with a generous layer of the whipped mascarpone cream.
  8. Repeat the layers: shortbread crumbs, strawberries, and finish with a final dollop of the mascarpone cream.
  9. Chill the strawberry shortcake parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute the shortbread crumbs with granola and use Greek yogurt mixed with a little cream cheese instead of the full mascarpone/whipping cream mixture to make healthy strawberry yogurt parfaits.
  • You can make the strawberry mixture and the cream component ahead of time. Assemble these quick assembly strawberry desserts no more than 4 hours before serving to keep the shortbread crumbs from getting too soft.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, use homemade shortcake pieces instead of crushed cookies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://blissbatter.com/strawberry-shortcake-parfaits/