All-American Berry Parfait

With the hot streak continuing this week, I’m definitely not thinking much about turning on my oven! You see, our weather service is predicting that we could come close to tying a record of 6 days in a row of 105 degree temperatures and by the end of this week we will probably have about 9 days in a row of over 100 degree heat! So with a sweltering holiday approaching, visions of cool red, white and blue desserts are dancing in my head! And in keeping with my theme this summer of no-bake delicious and refreshing desserts, you’ve got to try this scrumptious quick and easy All-American Berry Parfait. The airy whipped cream against the juicy fresh strawberries and blueberries with just a bit of crunch from the cookies will be a fabulously cool dessert to serve your friends and family after a hot day in the sun!

All-American Berry Parfait

1 large basket strawberries, washed and sliced (about 2 cups)
1 large basket blueberries, washed (about 2 cups)
2 pints heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon confectioners sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 package shortbread cookies, crumbled

In a large bowl of an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, pour the heavy cream and beat on high until soft peaks form.  Add the sugar and vanilla and continue beating until stiff peaks form.  Note, do not over beat.

To assemble the parfait, in 4-6 footed glass serving bowls or tall glasses, layer the ingredients as such: cookies, whipped cream, strawberries, cookies, whipped cream, blueberries, cookies, and ending with whipped cream. Save a couple of blueberries and strawberries for the garnish on the top. Serve immediately, or you can make ahead and keep in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy!

There you go, it’s that easy to create a festive treat!  Sure hope you stay cool over the holiday and have a fun time with your 4th of July celebrations!