Strawberry Goat Cheese Parfait
This Strawberry Goat Cheese Parfait with Golden Oreo Crumble & Balsamic Glaze is tangy, creamy, crunchy, and kissed with a sultry balsamic glaze that takes it over top.
Yield: 4-6 parfaits
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 5–8 minutes
Special Equipment: Mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional), small saucepan, parfait glasses or small jars
Ingredients
4 oz plain goat cheese, softened
4 oz cream cheese, room temp
¼ cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk or cream
2 cups + ½ cup fresh strawberries, diced, divided
3-4 tbsp sugar, divided
1 tsp lemon juice
1½ cups crushed Golden Oreos, about 12 cookies
Optional: 1 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp sugar
Optional: pinch of salt or lemon zest
Directions
Macerate the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, gently toss 2 cups diced fresh strawberries with 1–2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their delicious juices
Prepare the Goat Cheese Cream: While the strawberries are macerating, in a separate bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the softened goat cheese and cream cheese together until completely smooth and free of lumps. Add the powdered sugar, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. If the cream is too thick for your liking, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or cream, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Crush the Oreos: Place the Golden Oreos in a food processor and pulse until they form coarse crumbs, or crush them manually in a bag with a rolling pin. If you desire a firmer crumble layer, mix in 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
Make the Balsamic Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the ½ cup diced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Continue to simmer for 5–8 minutes, mashing the berries lightly with the back of a spoon, until the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze. Remove from heat and let it cool completely; the glaze will thicken further as it cools. For an extra pop of flavor, stir in an optional pinch of salt or lemon zest after removing from heat.
Assemble the Parfaits: To assemble your parfaits, gather your small jars or glasses. Start by layering a portion of the crushed Golden Oreo crumble at the bottom of each glass. Follow with a generous spoonful of the creamy goat cheese mixture. Next, add a layer of the macerated strawberries, ensuring some of their delicious juices are included. Repeat these layers until your glasses are full, or you've used all the ingredients.
Garnish and Serve: Once your parfaits are assembled, drizzle generously with the cooled balsamic strawberry glaze. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a few extra Golden Oreo crumbs. Serve immediately, or chill for a short period before serving for a refreshing treat.
