Why Make This Recipe
Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of blueberries and the creaminess of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re enjoying a warm summer day or want a cool treat any time of the year, this parfait is sure to please. It’s simple to make, colorful, and can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water (optional, for thickening)
- 4 cups vanilla ice cream (softened slightly for swirling)
- 2 cups blueberry ice cream or blueberry sorbet
- Fresh blueberries and blackberries (for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies (optional, for texture)
Directions
Make the Blueberry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat on medium until the berries burst and the sauce thickens slightly (about 7-10 minutes). If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in, then simmer for 1 more minute. Let it cool completely.
Assemble the Parfaits: In a tall glass, layer a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of blueberry sauce, and a scoop of blueberry ice cream or sorbet. Repeat these layers until the glass is filled. Use a skewer or spoon to swirl the layers slightly for a marbled look.
Top & Serve: Add fresh blueberries or blackberries on top. You can also add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cookie crumbs for extra texture. Serve immediately!
How to Serve Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait
Serve your parfaits in tall glasses or clear cups to show off the beautiful layers. They’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a special dessert after dinner. You can also let everyone add their toppings for a fun, personalized treat!
How to Store Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the parfaits in the freezer, tightly covered. They can be stored for a few hours but are best eaten fresh to enjoy the creamy texture. If stored too long, the ice cream may become too hard.
Tips to Make Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait
- Make sure the ice cream is slightly softened before assembling. It makes it easier to scoop and swirl.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the blueberry sauce based on your taste. Add more or less sugar if needed.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the blueberry sauce.
Variation
For a different flavor combination, replace the blueberry sauce with raspberry or strawberry sauce. You can also try using chocolate ice cream as a base for a richer dessert!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries for the sauce?
A: Yes! Frozen blueberries work just as well for making the sauce.
Q: How can I make this parfait dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free ice cream instead of regular ice cream, and ensure your toppings are also dairy-free.
Q: Can I prepare the blueberry sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make the blueberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before assembling the parfait.
Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl Ice Cream Parfait
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Spoon or skewer
- Tall glasses or cups
Ingredients
Blueberry Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp water optional, for thickening
Parfait Layers
- 4 cups vanilla ice cream softened slightly
- 2 cups blueberry ice cream or sorbet
Toppings (Optional)
- fresh blueberries and blackberries
- whipped cream
- crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for texture
Instructions
- Make the blueberry sauce: In a saucepan, heat blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice over medium until berries burst and sauce thickens (7–10 min). For thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch-water mix and simmer 1 more min. Let cool completely.
- Assemble the parfaits: In a tall glass, layer vanilla ice cream, blueberry sauce, and blueberry ice cream. Repeat layers. Swirl gently for marbled effect.
- Top and serve: Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, and cookie crumbs if desired. Serve immediately.