Black Forest Parfait

Delightful Black Forest Parfait Recipe with Cherry and Neufchatel

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Black Forest Parfait is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries in a layered treat. Inspired by the classic Black Forest Cake from Germany, this parfait version offers a simpler, no-bake alternative that still captures the essence of the original dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and decadent taste.

History

The Black Forest Parfait is inspired by the Black Forest Cake, which originated in the Black Forest region of Germany. The traditional cake is known for its layers of chocolate sponge cake, whipped cream, and cherries. This parfait recipe takes those key components and reimagines them in a layered dessert that's both easy to make and delightful to eat. The history of combining chocolate and cherries dates back centuries, but this recipe brings a modern twist to the classic flavor combination.

Ingredients

3 oz (85 g) of neufchatel cream cheese
2 cups of skim milk; cold
3 oz (85 g) of jell-o sugar-free instant chocolate pudding
1 tbsp of cornstarch
0.33 cup of cherry juice
1 can of red sour pitted cherries; 1 lb, water packed
6 packets of equal sweetener

How to prepare

Blend cream cheese with 0.25 cup of skim milk on low speed of an electric mixer until smooth.
Add the remaining milk and pudding mix.
Mix for 1 or 2 minutes until smooth.
Mix cornstarch in cherry juice until dissolved.
Add the dissolved cornstarch mixture to the cherries and cook until it boils for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and stir in equal.
Alternately spoon the pudding and cherries into parfait dishes, ending with pudding.
Garnish with 2 cherries.

Variations

Consider these variations to customize the parfait to your taste:
Use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Substitute the cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile.
Add a layer of crushed chocolate cookies for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Black Forest Parfait turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor and smoother texture.

- Chill the parfait glasses before assembling to keep the layers distinct and cool.

- For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using a dark chocolate pudding mix.

- Ensure the cherry mixture is cooled before layering to prevent melting the pudding layers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Black Forest Parfait chilled, ideally after refrigerating for at least an hour. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld. Garnishing with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings can enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is layering. Carefully spooning the pudding and cherry mixture into the glasses creates distinct, visually appealing layers. Gentle mixing of the cream cheese and milk ensures a smooth base for the parfait.

Ingredient Substitutions

Vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk can be used for a vegan version.

- Agar-agar can replace cornstarch as a thickener for the cherry mixture.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used as natural sweeteners instead of sweetener packets.

Make Ahead Tips

The Black Forest Parfait can be made up to a day in advance. Assemble the parfaits and store them in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to serve. This makes them a perfect dessert for dinner parties or special occasions.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, use tall, clear glasses to showcase the layers of the parfait. A mint leaf or a dusting of cocoa powder on top can add a professional touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Black Forest Parfait with a cup of strong coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the dessert beautifully. For a non-coffee option, a glass of dessert wine or a cherry liqueur can also pair well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The Black Forest Parfait should be stored in the refrigerator and is best enjoyed cold. It is not suitable for freezing or reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Black Forest Parfait contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively light dessert option, especially when compared to the traditional Black Forest Cake.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Black Forest Parfait contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The main sources of carbohydrates in this dessert are the chocolate pudding, skim milk, and cherry juice. Opting for sugar-free pudding and sweetener packets helps keep the carbohydrate count lower than traditional versions.

Fats

This dessert is relatively low in fats, with about 5 grams per serving. The fats primarily come from the cream cheese. Using low-fat or fat-free cream cheese can further reduce the fat content without significantly affecting the taste or texture of the parfait.

Proteins

Each serving of Black Forest Parfait provides around 4 grams of protein, mainly from the skim milk and cream cheese. While not a high-protein dessert, it offers a bit of protein to help balance the macronutrient profile.

Vitamins and minerals

The Black Forest Parfait offers a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk and vitamin C from the cherry juice. Additionally, the cherries provide antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the cream cheese and milk) and gluten (from the chocolate pudding mix). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Black Forest Parfait is a moderately low-calorie dessert with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It provides some vitamins and minerals, making it a somewhat nutritious option for a sweet treat.

Summary

The Black Forest Parfait is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings the classic flavors of chocolate and cherries in a beautiful, layered presentation. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it's a versatile recipe that's perfect for any dessert table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was during a trip to the Black Forest region in Germany many years ago. I was young and full of curiosity, eager to explore the rich culinary traditions of the area. As I wandered through the charming villages and lush forests, I stumbled upon a quaint little bakery nestled in the heart of the Black Forest.

The sweet aroma of chocolate and cherries wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. I entered the bakery and was greeted by a kind old woman with a twinkle in her eye. She introduced herself as Frau Schmidt, the owner of the bakery, and welcomed me warmly. I knew right away that I had stumbled upon a hidden gem.

Frau Schmidt invited me to sit at a small table near the window, where she served me a steaming cup of coffee and a slice of her famous Black Forest cake. The cake was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - layers of rich chocolate cake, tart cherries, and fluffy whipped cream all melded together in perfect harmony. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue, leaving me craving more.

I couldn't contain my excitement as I asked Frau Schmidt for the recipe. She chuckled softly and told me that the recipe was a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of her family. However, she saw the sparkle in my eye and the passion in my heart, and she decided to take me under her wing and teach me the art of making Black Forest Parfait.

For weeks, I apprenticed under Frau Schmidt, learning the intricacies of baking and the delicate balance of flavors that made her Black Forest Parfait so special. I watched in awe as she whipped egg whites to stiff peaks, folded in melted chocolate and sugar, and carefully layered the parfait glasses with cherries and cream. Every step was a labor of love, a testament to her dedication to her craft.

One day, as we sat in the cozy kitchen of the bakery, Frau Schmidt handed me a worn recipe card, stained with chocolate and vanilla. It was the coveted recipe for Black Forest Parfait, written in her elegant script. I felt a surge of gratitude and joy as I held the card in my hands, knowing that I had been entrusted with a precious gift.

I returned home with the recipe clutched tightly in my hand, eager to recreate the magic of the Black Forest Parfait in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients - eggs, sugar, chocolate, cherries, and cream - and set to work, following Frau Schmidt's instructions to the letter.

As the parfait took shape before my eyes, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment swell within me. The layers of chocolate mousse and cherry compote glistened in the sunlight, a tribute to the beauty and simplicity of German cuisine. I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my own repertoire, a dish that would bring joy and comfort to those I loved.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Black Forest Parfait with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was gifted to me by Frau Schmidt. Each time I make the parfait, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen in the Black Forest, where the scent of chocolate and cherries lingered in the air and the warmth of friendship and mentorship filled my heart.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my grandchildren, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that led me to discover the magic of Black Forest Parfait. It is a recipe that will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and nourish our souls. And as I watch my grandchildren take their first bite of the decadent dessert, I know that the legacy of this cherished recipe will live on for generations to come.