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"Magic" Lemon Pistachio Parfait

Bright, creamy layers with just the right crunch—this little dessert feels like sunshine in a glass. It comes together with simple ingredients you can grab on any grocery run, no fancy tools needed.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups crushed vanilla cookies or graham crackers
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 0.33 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 lemon zest zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 cup finely chopped roasted pistachios
  • lemon curd optional, for layering
  • extra pistachios for garnish
  • lemon zest for garnish

Method
 

  1. Mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter.
  2. Spoon the mixture into the bottom of serving glasses to form a base layer.
  3. Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
  4. Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks in a separate bowl.
  5. Fold the whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese mixture.
  6. Spoon a layer of the creamy filling over the cookie base.
  7. Add a thin layer of lemon curd if using.
  8. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the layer.
  9. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full, finishing with creamy filling on top.
  10. Garnish with extra pistachios and lemon zest.
  11. Chill for 1–2 hours before serving.

Notes

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before serving. Serve chilled with fresh fruit or a light cup of coffee for a simple, comforting dessert.