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Candy Corn Parfaits

Candy Corn Parfaits are layered desserts featuring crunchy cookie crumbs, creamy vanilla custard, and whipped topping, arranged to resemble the colorful segments of candy corn. The dessert is assembled in clear glasses to showcase the vibrant layers, resulting in a sweet, textured treat with a festive appearance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups cookie crumbs preferably vanilla or sugar cookies, crushed
  • 2 cups milk for the custard
  • 3 large egg yolks separate yolks from whites and discard whites
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped cream store-bought or freshly whipped

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • measuring cups
  • spoons
  • small spatula
  • clear glasses or dessert cups

Method
 

  1. Prepare the vanilla custard: in a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and slightly pale. Meanwhile, heat the milk in a saucepan until just about to simmer, then slowly pour it into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  2. Transfer the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the custard thickens and just starts to bubble — about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Crush the cookies into small crumbs—either by pulsing in a food processor or placing in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Set aside a few larger crumbs for decoration if desired.
  4. Once the custard has cooled, gently fold the whipped cream into the custard until smooth and fluffy. This creates a creamy, light filling for the parfaits.
  5. Begin assembling the parfaits: spoon a layer of cookie crumbs into the bottom of each glass, then add a generous layer of the vanilla custard mixture. Repeat the layers—cookie crumbs then custard—until the glass is filled, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
  6. Garnish the top with a few extra cookie crumbs and, if desired, a small torch-flamed mini marshmallow or a drizzle of caramel for added sweetness and presentation. Chill the assembled parfaits for 10-15 minutes to set the layers and enhance flavors.
  7. Serve the Candy Corn Parfaits cold, with a spoon ready to scoop through the colorful layers showcasing crunchy, creamy textures. Enjoy this festive and visually striking treat!

Notes

Chill each component thoroughly to prevent layering from becoming soggy. Use clear glasses to showcase the colorful layers. Feel free to add orange, yellow, and white gummy candies for extra visual flair.