Candy Corn Parfaits
These layered parfaits capture the nostalgic flavors of candy corn with a creamy texture and vibrant colors. Made by folding whipped cream into tangy cream cheese, then layering with crushed graham crackers and chopped candy corn, they offer a delightful balance of sweetness, crunch, and freshness. The result is a visually striking dessert with a smooth, fluffy, and chewy final appearance.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Clear glasses or jars
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup cup heavy cream Chill before whipping for best volume
- 8 oz ounces full-fat cream cheese Softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon teaspoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla preferred
- 2 tablespoons tablespoons granulated sugar Optional, for added sweetness
- 1 cup cup candy corn Chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cup graham cracker crumbs Lightly toasted if desired
- 2 tablespoons tablespoons citrus juice or zest Orange or lemon for brightness
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until soft peaks form, and it holds a gentle curl when you lift the beaters.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and sugar (if using) until smooth and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes. This creates a creamy, tangy base.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, adding a little at a time. Carefully combine until the mixture is light, airy, and uniform.
- Chop the candy corn into small, bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re not mushy but still show in each layer.
- Start layering your parfaits by spooning a layer of crushed graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each glass, followed by a generous layer of the creamy mixture.
- Sprinkle some chopped candy corn over the cream layer, then repeat with another layer of graham crackers, cream, and candy corn, finishing with a swirl of cream on top.
- Gently press down on the layers and refrigerate the parfaits for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set beautifully.
- Before serving, add a few extra pieces of candy corn on top for a colorful, festive finish. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, crunchy layers that evoke fall’s nostalgic flavors.