Strawberry Lemon Parfait (Dessert in a Jar!)

Strawberry Lemon Parfait Recipe: A Southern Dessert in a Jar

There’s just something about the combination of strawberries and lemon that feels like a slice of summer — even if you’re serving it in a jar.

This Strawberry Lemon Parfait hits all the right notes: it’s light, refreshing, and packs in that sweet-tart flavor we all know and love.

This recipe is perfect for when you want to serve something simple but still look like you put some thought into it.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something sweet in the fridge for the week, this parfait is one of those easy wins.

Who’s this parfait for?

Honestly, anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s great for kids and adults alike — not too heavy, not too sweet.

It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like you’re eating something a little fancy, without all the fuss.

It’s also a solid pick for anyone who likes to prep ahead, because it stores well and looks great served straight from the jar.

You may also like:

• Berry Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
• Strawberry Lemonade
• Strawberry Muffins
• Strawberry Banana Oat Muffins
• Strawberry Rolls
• Strawberry Banana Cake
• Homemade Strawberry Cake
• Homemade Strawberry Preserves
• No Churn Dairy Free Strawberry Ice Cream
• Frozen Lemonade Pie

When should you make it?

This is a go-to recipe when strawberries are in season and you want to take advantage of that fresh flavor, but it works year-round with store-bought or frozen berries, too.

It’s especially good for spring and summer get-togethers — backyard BBQs, baby showers, church potlucks, or even just Sunday lunch.

And if you’re planning a brunch, these little jars are a no-brainer.

Where should you serve it?

Serve this dessert in a jar anywhere you’d serve a good dessert.

These are perfect for outdoor gatherings because they travel well in jars and don’t need to be sliced or scooped.

You can even pack them up for a picnic or send a few home with guests as a take-home treat.

I’ve also served them at family gatherings right on the kitchen counter, and they disappear fast.

Why this recipe works

It’s the contrast. The sweet strawberries, the tangy lemon, and the creamy layers come together just right.

Plus, it’s served in a jar, so there’s no need to worry about slicing or plating. It also looks good, and we all know presentation matters — even if it’s just for the folks around your table.

You can make them ahead, stash them in the fridge, and pull them out when you’re ready to serve.

No last-minute scrambling.

How to serve it

Layer this strawberry dessert in small mason jars or any clear cup you’ve got.

If you’re hosting, tie a little twine around the rim or add a spoon and stack them in a cooler — they hold up great.

Want to make it extra fun? Add a mini lemon wedge or strawberry slice on top for a little garnish.

These also make a nice dessert board addition — just line them up with some cookies, fresh fruit, and maybe a little whipped cream on the side.

This is one of those recipes that feels homemade without a lot of hassle, and it’s flexible enough to fit whatever you’ve got going on.

Keep a few jars ready in the fridge, and you’ve got dessert handled all week long.

Strawberry Lemon Parfait

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. package light cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla bean paste
• 1 pack graham crackers
• 1 pint strawberries
• lemon pie filling/topping

Directions:

Beat cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar for about 1 minute.

Crush graham crackers into small pieces.

Wash, dry and cut strawberries.

Open can of lemon pie filling.

Put together:

Sprinkle in a layer of crushed graham crackers.

Add a few tablespoons of lemon pie filling.

Sprinkle more graham crackers.

Spoon in the cream cheese mixture and use the back of the spoon to spread.

Add strawberries.

Optional: top with whipped topping or whipped cream, some crushed graham crackers and a strawberry.

Recipe Notes:

• To crush the graham crackers, place them in a sealed bag and roll over them with a rolling pin. If you’re without a bag, you can lightly tap the unopened cracker sleeve with a kitchen tool like a mallet — just go slow to avoid a mess. For a finer texture, a few quick pulses in a food processor will do the trick.
• No vanilla bean paste? Regular vanilla extract works just fine as a substitute.
• Making this for a larger group? You don’t have to change much — just spread the ingredients a bit thinner across more jars, and increase the cream cheese mixture as needed by doubling or tripling it.

Strawberry Lemon Parfait FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this parfait is great for prepping ahead. You can assemble the jars a few hours before serving and keep them refrigerated. If you’re making them more than a day in advance, wait to add the strawberries and topping until right before serving to keep things fresh.

2. What kind of container should I use?
Small mason jars work perfectly, but you can also use clear plastic cups, dessert glasses, or even small bowls. Just keep in mind that the serving size will vary depending on the container.

3. Can I substitute the lemon pie filling with something else?
Absolutely. If lemon’s not your thing, you could use any fruit pie filling like blueberry or raspberry. You could also swap it out for a layer of strawberry jam or a homemade fruit compote.

4. What’s the difference between vanilla bean paste and vanilla extract?
Vanilla bean paste has a richer flavor and includes the little specks from real vanilla beans. But if you don’t have it, vanilla extract works just fine as a substitute.

5. Do I have to use light cream cheese?
Nope. You can use regular cream cheese if you prefer. The light version just cuts down on richness a bit, but it still turns out smooth and creamy either way.

6. Can I double or triple the recipe for a party?
Yes. This recipe scales easily. Just multiply the ingredients based on how many servings you want. You can also use smaller jars or cups to stretch the recipe for more people.

7. What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?
You can use a food processor for a fine crumb, or place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. If you’re in a pinch, you can even crush them right in the unopened sleeve—just go slow so the package doesn’t split open.

8. Can I make this without strawberries?
Sure. You can leave out the strawberries or swap them for another fresh fruit like blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches depending on what’s in season.

9. How long will these parfaits last in the fridge?
They’ll keep well for about 2–3 days in the fridge. If you’re making them in advance, hold off on adding the whipped topping and strawberries until just before serving for the best texture.

10. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes. Just use gluten-free graham crackers, and double-check that your pie filling is gluten-free (most are, but it’s good to read the label).

Tips & Tricks for the Best Strawberry Lemon Parfait in a Jar:

• How to keep layered desserts from getting soggy: If you’re making these ahead of time, try adding a thin layer of melted white chocolate or a dab of cream cheese mixture between the graham crackers and wet ingredients. This helps keep the texture just right.

• Best jars to use for individual layered desserts: Mason jars are a popular pick, but small dessert tumblers or even clear plastic cups work great for parties and BBQs. Look for jars with straight sides for the cleanest layers.

• How to pack desserts in a jar for a picnic or potluck: Once assembled, close each jar with a lid and store in a cooler with ice packs. You can even tie a plastic spoon to each one with twine for easy serving on the go.

• Creative ways to serve jar desserts at parties: Set up a “dessert jar bar” and let guests layer their own parfaits with a variety of fillings like fresh berries, cookie crumbs, lemon curd, or whipped cream. Great for baby showers, bridal showers, or cookouts.

• How to make a southern-style summer dessert that travels well: This strawberry lemon parfait is a smart choice for road trips, lake days, or beach picnics. The jars seal tight, travel easily, and stay cool in a chilled tote.

• Using this recipe for a make-ahead Easter or Mother’s Day dessert: These jars look beautiful with fresh fruit and light layers, making them a simple yet thoughtful make-ahead option for spring holidays. Add a sprig of mint or lemon zest for extra color.

• How to customize dessert jars for picky eaters or kids: Let each person choose their layers—some may want extra cream cheese, others might go heavy on fruit. It’s a fun way to get kids involved and keeps everyone happy.

• Turning this into a dessert board centerpiece: Arrange several jars on a large tray or board surrounded by fresh strawberries, lemon wedges, and extra crushed graham crackers. It looks impressive and makes for an easy self-serve station.

• Ways to lighten up jar desserts for summer: Use low-fat cream cheese, opt for less sweet toppings, or mix in some Greek yogurt with the cream layer for a lighter texture and a bit of tang.

• Freezing parfaits in mason jars: While these are best fresh, you can freeze them without the fresh fruit layer. Just thaw in the fridge and top with strawberries right before serving.