Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait with Almond Flavored Whipped Cream (Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly)
This Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait with Almond Flavored Whipped Cream is a decadent, low-carb dessert that combines creamy cheesecake layers with fresh blueberries, topped with a hint of almond flavor. Perfect for a keto-friendly treat!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or other low-carb sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp lemon juice
For the Blueberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp erythritol or sweetener of choice (optional)
For the Almond Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp powdered erythritol
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blueberry Layer:
- In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, water, and erythritol. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and form a syrup (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the heavy whipping cream, erythritol, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat until fluffy and well combined. You should have a thick, creamy consistency.
3. Prepare the Almond Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Add the powdered erythritol and almond extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Parfaits:
- In individual glasses or jars, layer the cheesecake mixture, blueberry syrup, and almond whipped cream.
- Start with a spoonful of cheesecake layer, followed by a layer of the blueberry mixture, then top with almond-flavored whipped cream.
- Repeat until the glasses are filled, ending with the whipped cream on top.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with a few fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of almond slivers, if desired, before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh or Thawed Blueberries: Fresh blueberries will give you a vibrant flavor, but thawed frozen blueberries work well too.
- Chill for Better Texture: For the best texture and flavor, allow the parfaits to chill for at least an hour before serving.
- Sweetener Adjustment: Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Some people like a little more sweetener in the blueberry layer.
- Make Ahead: These parfaits can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations:
- Berry Parfait:
- Swap blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Parfait:
- Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the cheesecake mixture for a chocolate version.
- Nuts and Crunch:
- Add some chopped almonds, pecans, or crushed low-carb granola in between the layers for a crunchy texture.
Benefits of Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait with Almond Whipped Cream:
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: A delicious dessert that fits perfectly within a low-carb or keto diet.
- Antioxidant-Rich: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
- High in Healthy Fats: The whipped cream and cream cheese provide satiating healthy fats, keeping you full longer.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust based on personal preferences for sweetness or flavor.
Enjoy this Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait with Almond Whipped Cream as a delightful, guilt-free dessert! 🍇🍰