Let’s light up your dessert table with these dazzling Firecracker Parfaits! They’re bright, fruity, creamy, and layered to perfection—like a party in a glass. With vibrant red, white, and blue layers, these no-bake beauties are fun to make and even more fun to eat. Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or just want a sweet treat that makes people say “wow!”, this recipe is ready to shine.

Each spoonful is cool, creamy, and fruity—with a fun pop of color that makes every bite feel like a mini celebration. They’re super easy to prep ahead, and kids love helping layer them (and sneaking a few bites along the way ). Trust me, these parfaits are a total crowd-pleaser—and they look as good as they taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No baking required—just layer and chill
• Festive and colorful for any celebration
• Totally customizable with your favorite fruits or flavors
• Make-ahead friendly and perfect for parties
• Light, refreshing, and beautifully layered

Ingredients

For the Red Layer

• 1 cup strawberry or cherry Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• Fresh strawberries or raspberries (optional)

For the White Layer

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the Blue Layer

• 1 cup blue raspberry Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• Fresh blueberries (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• Whipped cream
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles
• Fresh berries or candy stars

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Jell-O Layers

Prepare the red and blue Jell-O in separate bowls by dissolving each packet in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then mix in 1 cup cold water. Chill each color in the fridge until slightly thickened—about 45–60 minutes. (You want them jiggly but not fully set for easy layering.)

Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer

While the Jell-O chills, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy. Set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Parfaits

In small clear cups or jars, spoon a layer of red Jell-O, followed by a layer of the cream cheese mixture, then a layer of blue Jell-O. Repeat if your cups are tall! You can tuck in some fresh berries between layers for a fruity surprise.

Step 4: Chill & Garnish

Let the parfaits chill for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight) until completely set. Right before serving, top with a swirl of whipped cream, sprinkles, and a few fresh berries or candy stars for that firecracker flair.

Tips for the Best Firecracker Parfaits

• Chill between layers so they don’t blend together
• Use clear cups or jars to show off the stripes
• Pipe the white layer with a bag for clean, pretty layers
• Want a shortcut? Use store-bought pudding for the white layer

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! They hold up beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days—just wait to add whipped cream until right before serving.

What other flavors can I use?
Try raspberry, black cherry, or watermelon Jell-O for red, and grape or berry blue for the blue layer. Lemon pudding makes a fun swap for the cream cheese layer, too!

Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes! Use sugar-free Jell-O, whipped topping, and a sugar substitute in the cream cheese layer.

Conclusion

These Firecracker Parfaits are pure celebration in a cup—layered, lovely, and bursting with flavor and flair. Whether you’re lighting sparklers or just lighting up your dinner table, these no-bake beauties are guaranteed to steal the show.

So grab your favorite Jell-O flavors, whip up that creamy middle, and get ready to sparkle—because dessert just got a whole lot more firework-worthy.

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