Name: Cherry Chocolate Frozen Parfait
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: PT-488029H16M47S
Cuisine: French-
Ingredients: 350 ml thickened cream (heavy/whipping cream), cold; 400 g pitted cherries (fresh or frozen); ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon water; 125 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate (50% cocoa solids), chopped; 1 cup (250 ml) whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 6 large egg yolks; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

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Cherry Chocolate Frozen Parfait is an indulgent French-inspired dessert that layers creamy no-churn chocolate and cherry ice creams into one elegant treat. With a rich custard base, sweet cherry purée, and smooth chocolate, this make-ahead dessert is perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want to impress. It’s creamy, refreshing, and beautifully balanced with fruity and chocolatey notes.

Cherry Chocolate Frozen Parfait

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A no-churn recipe with a silky custard base
Gorgeous layers of cherry and chocolate ice cream
Perfect make-ahead dessert that freezes beautifully
Combines fruity freshness with rich chocolate
Great for summer or special occasions
Uses simple ingredients with luxurious results
Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months
Elegant presentation straight from a loaf pan
No ice cream maker required
Crowd-pleasing flavors everyone loves

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

350 ml thickened cream (heavy/whipping cream), cold
400 g pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g)
1 tablespoon water
125 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate (50% cocoa solids), chopped
1 cup whole milk (250 ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 large egg yolks
½ cup granulated sugar (100 g)

directions

Prep: Pour the cream into a large bowl and refrigerate. Line a medium loaf tin with baking paper.
Make cherry purée: In a saucepan, combine cherries, ¼ cup sugar, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, then blend until smooth. Return to pan and cook about 15 minutes until thickened. Strain, reserving puree. Chill until cool.
Melt chocolate: Microwave chopped chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring until melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make custard base: Heat milk and vanilla over low heat until steaming. Beat egg yolks with ½ cup sugar until pale. Slowly whisk in hot milk, then return mixture to saucepan. Stir constantly over low heat 5–6 minutes until thickened.
Flavor custard: Divide custard into two bowls. Mix half with ½ cup cherry puree. Stir the other half into melted chocolate.
Whip cream: Beat chilled cream to soft peaks. Gently fold half into chocolate custard. Spread into loaf tin, freeze 30 minutes.
Add cherry layer: Fold remaining cream into cherry custard. Pour over chocolate layer in loaf tin. Freeze 8 hours or overnight.
Serve: Slice and serve with reserved cherry sauce, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings.

Servings and timing

Yield: 12 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Setting Time: 4 hours (preferably overnight)
Total Time: 55 minutes active, plus freezing

Variations

Berry Parfait: Swap cherries for raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
White Chocolate Twist: Replace dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
Boozy Version: Add a splash of kirsch, amaretto, or brandy to the cherry purée.
Nutty Garnish: Top with toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios.
Marbled Look: Swirl the cherry and chocolate mixtures together for a rippled effect.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream, dairy-free chocolate, and plant-based milk.
Extra Rich: Stir chopped chocolate chunks into the chocolate custard layer.
Citrus Touch: Add orange zest to the chocolate custard for a fruity lift.
Mini Parfaits: Assemble in ramekins for individual servings.
Ice Cream Cake Style: Press a cookie crumb base into the loaf pan before layering.

storage/reheating

Freezer: Store tightly wrapped in the loaf pan or transfer slices to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Refrigerator: Not recommended as it will melt.
To Serve: Remove from freezer 5–10 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.

FAQs

Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes, this is a no-churn recipe that uses whipped cream and custard for texture.

Do I need fresh cherries?

No, frozen cherries work just as well. Just thaw before cooking.

How do I prevent ice crystals?

Make sure the cherry purée is reduced and thick, and always fold whipped cream gently into custard.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it must be made ahead since it needs at least 8 hours to freeze.

Can I skip the custard step?

The custard is key for the creamy, rich texture. Without it, the parfait won’t set properly.

What pan should I use?

A 6-cup capacity loaf tin with straight sides works best for neat slices.

How long does it need to freeze?

At least 8 hours, but overnight is best for firm layers.

Can I add extra fruit chunks?

Yes, fold in chopped cherries or berries to the custard before freezing.

Can I use milk chocolate?

Yes, but it will be sweeter and less intense than dark chocolate.

How should I garnish it?

Serve with reserved cherry sauce, fresh cherries, chocolate curls, or whipped cream.

Conclusion

Cherry Chocolate Frozen Parfait is an elegant frozen dessert that layers rich chocolate and vibrant cherry flavors in a silky, no-churn ice cream. Perfect for summer entertaining or holiday tables, this French-inspired treat is as impressive as it is delicious. Make it ahead, slice it up, and enjoy a refreshing, decadent dessert that’s sure to wow your guests.