Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chocolate ganache (prepared from chocolate and cream); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar; Chocolate shavings for garnish; Additional whole strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfaits for a sweet treat that feels both indulgent and light at the same time. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries never fails to wow my guests, and it’s a brilliant way to show off seasonal fruits. Each layer creates a delightful contrast in textures. As I whip together fluffy chocolate pudding and layers of strawberries, I can't help but feel that this dessert is an instant hit, perfect for any gathering or as a personal indulgence after a long day.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:13:32.127Z

When I first attempted making these parfaits, I was amazed at how quickly they came together without sacrificing flavor. The fluffy chocolate pudding, made by folding whipped cream into chocolate ganache, is something I never tire of. The key is to let the ganache cool before folding it to achieve that perfect airy texture.

A wonderful tip I've learned is to macerate the strawberries in a bit of sugar for about 10 minutes; this enhances their sweetness, making each bite more flavorful and delicious. Trust me, friends will be asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent layers that blend chocolate richness with fruity freshness
Effortless to prepare, perfect for any skill level
Visually stunning and sure to impress guests at any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The creaminess of the chocolate fluff largely depends on the quality of your heavy cream and chocolate ganache. Using a high-fat cream (at least 36% fat) will provide a rich texture and aid in achieving those soft peaks. When preparing the ganache, ensure the chocolate is finely chopped for even melting and to achieve a smooth consistency, which will create a glossy finish in your fluff. Choose a chocolate that balances well with sweetness to enhance the dessert's flavor without overwhelming it.

Fresh strawberries are the star of this parfait. When selecting strawberries, look for deep red, firm fruit that is free of blemishes. They should have a sweet aroma and yield slightly when pressed. Macerating the strawberries with sugar not only enhances their sweetness but also creates a syrup that contributes to the overall moisture of the parfait. This step is crucial; allow the strawberries to rest for at least 10 minutes to draw out sufficient juices, which will beautifully blend with the chocolate layers.

Layering Techniques

Layering your parfaits neatly is key to the visual appeal of this dessert. To create defined layers, use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate fluff evenly at the bottom of each serving glass. A clear glass will showcase the striking contrast of colors and textures. Although it might be tempting to rush through this step, patience pays off. Make sure each layer is smooth and allows for a perfect ‘cut’ when serving, revealing the beautiful layers within.

Consider the texture combinations throughout the parfait. The creaminess of the fluff juxtaposed with the juicy strawberries creates a delightful mouthfeel. If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider incorporating crushed cookies or nuts between the layers. A touch of texture will elevate the eating experience; just be sure to keep balance in mind to ensure that each bite complements the main flavors without overshadowing them.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you're preparing these parfaits in advance, they can be assembled a few hours prior to serving. Just be sure to keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness, ideally no longer than 4-6 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the fluff light and delightfully airy. However, avoid freezing the assembled parfaits, as the textures can be compromised upon thawing.

For an added twist, consider flavoring your chocolate fluff with different extracts, such as almond or orange, for a unique spin on the classic. Additionally, serving with a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation even further. Each of these small details contributes to an impressive final product that reflects a thoughtful approach to dessert making.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfait:

For the Fluff

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chocolate ganache (prepared from chocolate and cream)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberries

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar

For Assembly

Chocolate shavings for garnish
Additional whole strawberries for garnish

Now that you have everything, let's begin creating this delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your parfait:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out their juices.

Make the Chocolate Fluff

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the cooled chocolate ganache and vanilla extract until fully combined and fluffy.

Layer the Parfait

In serving glasses, start with a layer of the chocolate fluff, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with the chocolate fluff on top.

Garnish and Serve

Top each parfait with chocolate shavings and a whole strawberry for garnish. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Chocolate Strawberry Fluff Parfaits!

Pro Tips

For an extra decadent taste, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving to contrast perfectly with the sweetness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different fruits! While strawberries are a wonderful choice, raspberries, blueberries, or even bananas can add their unique flavors to the parfait. Pairing soft seasonal fruits with the rich chocolate fluff can create an exciting twist, keeping the dessert refreshing. Just make sure to adjust the sugar if your chosen fruits require less sweetening.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and chocolate ganache with coconut cream and vegan chocolate. This will still allow for a rich, fluffy texture while accommodating dairy sensitivities. Just be mindful of chilling the coconut cream ahead of time to ensure it whips well.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate fluff isn't whipping properly, ensure that your bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Any leftover grease can prevent the cream from whipping up effectively, leaving you with a compromised texture. Additionally, using cold heavy cream straight from the fridge will yield better results, as warmer cream can struggle to incorporate air.

For those who find the fluff too sweet, adjust the sugar quantity in the whipped cream or chocolate ganache for a more balanced flavor. You can also introduce a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate’s richness while reducing perceived sweetness. Remember, tasting as you go is key to achieving the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture.

→ How far in advance can I prepare these parfaits?

You can prepare the layers a few hours in advance but assemble the parfaits right before serving to maintain their texture.

→ Can I make the chocolate fluff dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious alternative.

→ What type of chocolate is best for ganache?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor in your ganache.