Decadent Cherry Chocolate Parfait: No-Churn Ice Cream Dessert

Looking for an impressive dessert that’s secretly super easy to make? This no-churn cherry chocolate parfait combines rich chocolate and sweet-tart cherries into a stunning frozen treat that tastes like it came from a fancy French patisserie!

Recipe Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Chocolate Parfait

I’ve always been intimidated by homemade ice cream until I discovered this no-churn parfait method! It’s my go-to impressive dessert for dinner parties because it looks incredibly elegant but requires no special equipment or advanced skills.

What makes this parfait special is the silky-smooth texture that rivals any premium store-bought ice cream. The contrast between the rich chocolate layer and the bright cherry layer creates a gorgeous visual effect when sliced. Plus, the flavor combination is an absolute classic that everyone loves!

I especially appreciate that I can make this dessert days in advance, which means less stress when entertaining. My guests are always amazed when I bring it to the table – they never believe it’s homemade until I reveal my simple secret!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cherry Layer

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted (about 1 pound) or frozen cherries, thawed
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Layer

• 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped
• 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Custard Base

• 6 large egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream, cold and divided

For Garnish

• Fresh cherries with stems
• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Mint leaves (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (optional, for adults)

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Parfait

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the long sides to help lift the parfait out later. Make sure to press the paper into the corners for clean edges. Place a large mixing bowl in the refrigerator to chill (this will be for whipping cream later).

Step 2: Make the Cherry Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, ⅓ cup sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 5 minutes until cherries soften and release their juices.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Transfer to a blender and puree until smooth (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot).
6. Return the mixture to the saucepan and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened to a sauce consistency. When you drag a spoon through, it should leave a clear path that slowly fills in.
7. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to extract all the juice. (Save the pulp for topping yogurt or toast!)
8. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Set aside 3 tablespoons for serving and let the rest cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate

1. Place chopped chocolate in a medium, heatproof bowl.
2. If using espresso powder, sprinkle it over the chocolate.
3. Heat in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring well between each burst, until just melted (about 1-2 minutes total).
4. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Let cool slightly while you prepare the custard.

Step 4: Make the Custard Base

1. In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and ½ cup sugar until pale and thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat until it begins to steam but not boil.
3. Very slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture in a thin stream, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
4. Return the entire mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, until thickened enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Do not let it boil.
5. When properly thickened, you should be able to run your finger across the coated spoon and leave a clean path that doesn’t immediately fill in.
6. Divide the custard evenly between two medium bowls.

Step 5: Create the Two Flavored Layers

1. Add the melted chocolate mixture to one bowl of custard and stir until well combined. Set aside to cool.
2. Add the cooled cherry puree (reserving the 3 tablespoons you set aside) to the second bowl of custard and stir until well combined. Set aside to cool.

Step 6: Whip the Cream and Fold Into Mixtures

1. Remove the chilled bowl from the refrigerator and add the 2 cups of cold heavy cream.
2. Whip the cream to soft peaks using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t overwhip.
3. Divide the whipped cream between the two bowls (chocolate and cherry).
4. Gently fold half the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no streaks remain, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
5. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the cherry mixture until no streaks remain.

Step 7: Assemble and Freeze

1. Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it into an even layer.
2. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to partially set.
3. Remove from freezer and carefully pour the cherry mixture on top, smoothing the surface.
4. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals.
5. Freeze for at least 8 hours or overnight until completely firm.

Step 8: Serve

1. When ready to serve, remove from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to slightly soften.
2. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the parfait out of the pan.
3. Slice with a knife dipped in hot water (wipe clean between cuts).
4. Garnish with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, reserved cherry sauce, and optional mint leaves.
5. For adult servings, drizzle each slice with a small amount of cherry liqueur if desired.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cherry Chocolate Parfait

• Cherry pitting hack: If you don’t have a cherry pitter, use a chopstick to push the pit out from the stem end through the bottom, working over a bowl to catch the juice.
• Create perfect layers: For the cleanest lines between layers, make sure your first layer is partially frozen but not completely solid before adding the second layer. This helps the layers bond together while keeping them distinct.
• Temperature matters: For the smoothest texture, don’t rush the cooling process between steps. Hot mixtures folded into whipped cream will deflate the air bubbles that give this parfait its creamy texture.
• Straining is crucial: Don’t skip straining the cherry puree. This removes the skins and fibers that would give your parfait an unwanted texture.
• Chocolate quality: Use the best quality chocolate you can afford. Since chocolate is a prominent flavor, using chocolate with at least 60% cacao content will give you a richer, less sweet result.
• Easy removal: If you’re having trouble removing the parfait from the pan, dip the bottom of the loaf pan in hot water for 10-15 seconds to loosen it.
• Slicing secret: To get clean, restaurant-quality slices, run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between each cut.
• Prevent freezer burn: If storing longer than 24 hours, wrap the parfait in a second layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and ice crystal formation.

Delicious Variations to Try

Black Forest Parfait

Replace the plain dark chocolate with cherry-filled dark chocolate and add 2 tablespoons of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cherry mixture for an authentic Black Forest flavor profile.

White Chocolate Cherry Parfait

Substitute white chocolate for the dark chocolate and add a few drops of almond extract to the cherry mixture for a sweeter, more delicate flavor combination.

Triple-Layer Parfait

Create a third vanilla layer by reserving 1/3 of the custard base before adding flavors, and layer in the middle for a neapolitan effect.

Berry Medley Parfait

Replace half the cherries with a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry variation that’s perfect for when cherries aren’t in season.

Chocolate Cherry Chunk Parfait

Before freezing, fold ½ cup of chopped chocolate-covered cherries into the cherry layer for additional texture and flavor bursts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Freezer Storage

This parfait can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After the initial freeze, wrap the parfait (still in the loaf pan) with a double layer of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Make-Ahead Timeline

• 3 days before: Prepare the cherry sauce and store in the refrigerator.
• 2 days before: Assemble and freeze the entire parfait.
• Day of serving: Remove from freezer 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for the perfect texture.

Serving From Frozen

For the best texture and flavor, allow the parfait to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. This takes the edge off the freeze and allows the flavors to bloom.

Individual Servings

You can make individual servings by using small ramekins or glasses instead of a loaf pan. Follow the same layering process but reduce the initial freeze time to 15-20 minutes before adding the second layer.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a small pitcher of warm chocolate sauce for guests to pour over their slice.
• Pair with Italian amaretti cookies or crisp almond biscotti for textural contrast.
• For a breakfast parfait twist, serve a small slice alongside fresh berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Create an elegant dessert board with slices of parfait, fresh cherries, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and small cookies.
• Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a slice for an extra-special dessert.
• For summer entertaining, serve with a glass of chilled rosé wine or prosecco.

Nutritional Benefits of Cherries

Cherries aren’t just delicious; they also pack a nutritional punch:

• Antioxidants: Cherries are rich in anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color and provide powerful antioxidant properties.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The compounds in cherries may help reduce inflammation and associated pain.
• Sleep aid: Cherries are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin, which can help regulate sleep patterns.
• Vitamin C: A cup of cherries provides about 18% of your daily vitamin C needs.
• Potassium: Cherries contain potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
• Fiber: The fiber in cherries supports digestive health and helps you feel fuller longer.

Dietary Adaptations

Dairy-Free Version

Substitute the whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk, and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream (the solid part from a refrigerated can of coconut milk). The flavors of coconut complement both cherry and chocolate beautifully.

Egg-Free Version

Replace the custard base with 2 cups of coconut cream mixed with ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Divide and flavor as directed in the original recipe.

Lower Sugar Option

Reduce the sugar in both the cherry sauce and the custard by half, and use 85% dark chocolate for the chocolate layer. The natural sweetness of the cherries and cream will still provide plenty of flavor.

Gluten-Free Considerations

This parfait is naturally gluten-free, but always check your chocolate and any additional ingredients to ensure they haven’t been processed with gluten-containing products.

Keto-Friendly Adaptation

Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit in place of sugar, and choose a high-percentage dark chocolate (85% or higher) or sugar-free chocolate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Icy Texture

If your parfait has an icy rather than creamy texture, it might be due to excess water in your cherry puree or undeveloped custard. Make sure to cook your cherry puree until very thick and ensure your custard properly coats the back of a spoon before proceeding.

Layers Mixing Together

If your layers aren’t staying separate, make sure the first layer is partially frozen before adding the second. Also, pour the second layer gently over the back of a spoon to disperse the force and prevent it from breaking through the first layer.

Custard Curdling

If your custard develops lumps during cooking, immediately remove it from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve. To prevent this, heat very gradually and stir constantly.

Difficulty Unmolding

If the parfait sticks to the pan, run a thin knife dipped in hot water around the edges, or briefly dip the bottom of the pan in hot water to loosen.

Whipped Cream Deflating

If your whipped cream deflates when folded into the mixtures, it might be because your custard or chocolate was too warm. Make sure both are cooled to room temperature before folding in the whipped cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe! Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. You may need to cook the cherry puree slightly longer to reach the proper thickness.

How long does this parfait keep in the freezer?

When properly wrapped (double layer of plastic wrap plus foil), this parfait will keep well for up to 2 weeks in the freezer. After that, it’s still safe to eat but the quality and texture may begin to deteriorate.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes! For an egg-free version, replace the custard base with a mixture of 2 cups of coconut cream and ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What type of chocolate works best?

For the richest flavor, use a high-quality dark chocolate with 60-70% cacao content. Milk chocolate will work but will make the dessert significantly sweeter and less complex in flavor.

Can I add alcohol to this recipe?

Absolutely! For an adult version, add 2 tablespoons of kirsch (cherry brandy), crème de cassis, or cherry liqueur to the cherry mixture after straining. Alternatively, you can serve the parfait with a small drizzle of liqueur over each slice.

Ready to Try More Decadent Desserts?

If you enjoyed this Cherry Chocolate Parfait, check out these other fantastic treats:

• Ultimate No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake – Another impressive no-bake dessert
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe – Perfect if you love fruity desserts
• Foolproof Nutella Ferrero Rocher Cookie Pie – For chocolate lovers
• Homemade Strawberry Turnovers with Puff Pastry – Another fantastic fruit dessert
• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake – For a breakfast-inspired treat

Have you tried this Cherry Chocolate Parfait? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag me in your creations on social media. Enjoy this show-stopping dessert!