Heavenly Cheesecake Parfait Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Bottom Layer

• Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks of butter
  • 3 cups of flour
  • 1 cup of chopped walnuts

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the butter, flour, and walnuts as you would for a pie crust.
  3. Pat the mixture into a 9x13 inch pan.
  4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Allow to cool completely.

Second Layer

• Ingredients:

  • 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups of powdered sugar
  • 2 cups of Cool Whip (or similar topping)

• Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and powdered sugar.
  2. Whip at high speed until smooth.
  3. Fold in the Cool Whip.
  4. Spread the mixture over the cooled bottom layer.

Third Layer

• Ingredients:

  • 2 (3-ounce) packages of instant pudding (choose your favorite flavor: chocolate, lemon, butterscotch, vanilla, pistachio)
  • 3 cups of milk

• Instructions:

  1. Pour the instant pudding mix into a bowl.
  2. Add the milk and whip at high speed for several minutes until thick.
  3. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.

Fourth Layer

• Ingredients:

  • Additional Cool Whip (or similar topping)
  • Chopped nuts and coconut for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Spread enough Cool Whip over the pudding layer to cover it completely.
  2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and coconut.
  3. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

Nutritional Information and Alternatives

While this dessert is undeniably delicious, it’s also quite indulgent. For those looking to cut down on calories and fat, consider these alternatives:

• Use low-fat cream cheese.
• Opt for a low-fat whipped topping.
• Substitute skim milk for whole milk in the pudding layer.

Fun Facts and Stats

• Did you know? The average American consumes about 23 pounds of cheese per year, with cream cheese being a popular choice for desserts like this one. Source: USDA.
• Interesting Stat: According to a survey by the International Dairy Foods Association, 73% of Americans enjoy eating dessert at least once a week. Source: IDFA.

Conclusion

This Cheesecake Parfait is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this dessert is a must-try. Remember, you can always make a lighter version by using low-fat ingredients. Enjoy!

LeAnn R. Ralph is the author of books about growing up on a small family dairy farm 40 years ago. The Midwest Book Review calls this series of books “Highly recommended reading!” You are invited to sign up for the twice-monthly newsletter from Rural Route 2 -- Rural Route 2.