Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits

Name: Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I love making these Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits for a sweet treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. The creamy, rich cheesecake layers paired with fresh strawberries create a delightful harmony of flavors. With oats adding a subtle crunch, every spoonful is a joy. This dessert is perfect not just for entertaining guests, but also for enjoying a quiet evening at home. I can't resist the balance of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in each bite!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:43:35.749Z

Creating these Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits was an adventure in flavor. I layered the creamy cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries, enhancing the dessert's taste and visual appeal. The oats provide a nice crunch, giving the parfaits a delightful texture. I found that letting the layers sit for a few minutes allowed the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a refreshing experience.

While preparing, I experimented with adding a hint of vanilla to the cheesecake mixture, which elevated the flavor profile remarkably. Don't rush the assembly! The beauty lies in the layers, so take your time and enjoy the process. These parfaits are a fantastic way to satisfy a sweet tooth without all the guilt!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy with a hint of sweetness from fresh strawberries
Oats add a satisfying crunch and nutritious twist
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or toppings

Understanding the Layers

Each layer of the Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits contributes to a unique texture and flavor experience. The creamy cheesecake layer creates a smooth and luscious base, balanced by the sweetness of the strawberries. The oats layer adds a delightful crunch, which contrasts perfectly with the soft, rich cheesecake. This interplay of textures is essential to the overall enjoyment of the dessert; it keeps each bite interesting and satisfying.

To achieve the best results, it's important to prepare each layer properly. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened and at room temperature before mixing; this prevents lumps in your cheesecake layer. When whipping the cream cheese with the other ingredients, aim for a glossy and uniform consistency. If you notice that your mixture is still lumpy even after thorough mixing, you can use an electric mixer on high speed to smooth it out.

Making It Your Own

These parfaits are highly customizable! While strawberries are a fantastic choice, consider other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches for a different taste. Each fruit brings a unique sweetness and acidity, so feel free to experiment. If you're opting for fruits that are less sweet, like blackberries, you might want to add a bit more sugar to the fruit layer to balance the flavors.

For those looking to lower the sugar content, both the honey or maple syrup in the oat layer and the sugar in the strawberry layer can be adjusted. You can use a sugar alternative or reduce the quantities slightly. My go-to substitution for sugar is using ripe bananas for a natural sweetness in the oat layer, which also enhances the flavor profile without compromising texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These parfaits can be made ahead of time, which makes them convenient for gatherings. Prepare the layers up to a day in advance and assemble them just before serving. If you need to store unassembled layers, refrigerate the cheesecake and oat components separately in airtight containers and keep the strawberries in a covered bowl to prevent them from browning.

When it comes to serving, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of granola on top for extra texture and flavor. I love drizzling a bit of melted chocolate or a berry compote over the top for added indulgence. Presentation matters, so use clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers, and garnish with a whole strawberry or a mint leaf for a fresh touch.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup Greek yogurt

For the Oat Layer

1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Strawberry Layer

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Layer

In a bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy.

Prepare the Oats Layer

In another bowl, mix rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, melted butter, and cinnamon until the oats are well coated.

Assemble the Parfaits

In clear glasses or bowls, layer the ingredients starting with the oat mixture, followed by the cheesecake layer, and then the strawberry layer. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.

Serve

Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Oat Cheesecake Parfaits!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a layer of lemon zest in between the layers for added citrusy brightness.

Perfecting the Oat Layer

The oat layer is more than just a crunchy element; it plays a crucial role in balancing the creaminess of the cheesecake. When combining rolled oats with melted butter and your choice of sweetener, ensure the oats are evenly coated to achieve an optimal consistency. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash more melted butter to help bind it together without overwhelming it with fats.

Toasting the oats before mixing can enhance their flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through for even toasting. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly. This added step enriches the overall taste and aroma of your parfaits.

Troubleshooting Cream Cheese Layer

Achieving the perfect cream cheese layer can sometimes be tricky. If your mixture is too runny after adding the Greek yogurt, it may be due to the yogurt being too watery. To fix this, consider draining the yogurt through a cheesecloth for an hour to remove excess moisture, creating a thicker and creamier base.

Additionally, if your cheesecake layer is overly thick and difficult to spread, you can lighten it by adding a splash of milk or heavy cream. This adjustment not only improves the consistency but also helps in spreading the layer more evenly between the oats and strawberries.

Variations for Different Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free option, ensure that you choose certified gluten-free oats. This small change makes the dessert accessible to those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining the delicious texture and flavor.

If you're looking to make these parfaits vegan, swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a non-dairy yogurt. For the oat layer, replace butter with coconut oil or a similar vegan substitute. The end result will still be creamy and satisfying without any animal products.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, using low-fat cream cheese can reduce the calorie count while still providing great flavor.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are excellent substitutes for honey in this recipe.

→ Are there alternative fruits I can use?

Absolutely! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or even mango for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I prepare these parfaits a day in advance?

Yes, you can prepare these parfaits ahead of time, but for the best texture, assemble them no more than 24 hours before serving.