Description

Want a dessert that’s as stunning as a 4th of July fireworks show and super easy to make? These Patriotic Parfaits are the perfect treat! Layered with fluffy angel food cake, juicy strawberries, vibrant blueberries, and creamy whipped cream, they’re a no-bake dessert that screams summer fun.

Ingredients

Scale

A batch of Patriotic Parfaits needs just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 parfaits:

Cake Base:
- ½ angel food cake, cut into small chunks
- Why it matters: Angel food cake is light and fluffy, soaking up fruit juices for a perfect texture.
- Substitutions: Use pound cake, sponge cake, or gluten-free cake. Shortbread cookies work for a crunchier base.
Fruits:
- 1 pint strawberries, chopped (or whole raspberries)
- 1 pint blueberries
- Why it matters: Strawberries (or raspberries) and blueberries add vibrant red and blue colors, plus natural sweetness and nutrients.
- Substitutions: Use blackberries or cherries for similar colors. Frozen berries work if thawed and drained well.
Cream:
- 2 cups whipped cream (homemade or Cool Whip)
- Why it matters: Whipped cream adds a creamy, white layer that ties the parfait together.
- Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed option or dairy-free whipped topping for a vegan version.
Optional Adult Twist:
- Grand Marnier (1 tbsp per parfait)
- Why it matters: Adds a fancy, orange-flavored kick for grown-up gatherings.
- Substitutions: Use Cointreau, rum, or a splash of orange juice for a non-alcoholic option.

Tip: Choose ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor and color. If making whipped cream, use cold heavy cream for the fluffiest results.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash 1 pint strawberries and 1 pint blueberries. Pat dry with paper towels.
Chop strawberries into eighths (small bite-sized pieces). If using raspberries, keep them whole.
Cut ½ angel food cake into small cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
If making homemade whipped cream, whip 2 cups heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar and ½ tsp vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (3-5 minutes with a mixer). Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Tip: Prep ingredients just before assembling to keep everything fresh. Use a sharp knife for clean cake cubes.

Step 2: Set Up the Glasses

Line up 4 mason jars or clear plastic cups (8-12 oz. each) to show off the layers.
- Tip: Clear containers make the red, white, and blue layers pop. Mason jars add a cute, rustic vibe.

Step 3: Layer the Parfaits

Spoon a small amount of whipped cream (about 1-2 tbsp) into the bottom of each jar.
Add a layer of blueberries (about ¼ cup per jar), spreading evenly.
Place 4-5 pieces of cubed angel food cake over the blueberries.
Spoon another layer of whipped cream (about 2 tbsp) over the cake.
If your jars have room, add another layer of angel food cake cubes.
Carefully top with chopped strawberries (or whole raspberries, about ¼ cup per jar).
Add more layers (blueberries, cream, cake, strawberries) if your jars are tall enough, filling to just below the rim.
Finish with a swirl of whipped cream and top each parfait with a whole strawberry.
- Tip: Layer gently to keep colors distinct. Use a piping bag for whipped cream for a neat swirl.

Step 4: Add Optional Adult Twist

For adult gatherings, drizzle 1 tbsp Grand Marnier (or your favorite liqueur) over the whipped cream topping for an indulgent flavor.
- Tip: Skip the liqueur for kid-friendly parfaits or use a splash of orange juice for a similar zing.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve the parfaits right away for the freshest taste and fluffiest cake.
- Tip: If not serving immediately, see storage tips below to keep layers fresh.