Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce

Name: Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Whipped cream for topping; Crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Delight in the festive flavors of this Gingerbread Parfait, layered with rich chocolate sauce for a truly indulgent dessert experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:13:51.688Z

This Gingerbread Parfait is a delightful combination of spiced gingerbread layers and velvety chocolate sauce, perfect for the holiday season.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A festive blend of gingerbread spices adds warmth and cheer
Creamy chocolate sauce drizzled over each layer creates a decadent touch
Easy to assemble, making it perfect for holiday gatherings

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

The Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce is an ideal dessert for the holiday season. It combines the warm, comforting spices typical of gingerbread with the rich, smooth taste of chocolate, creating a delightful contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Each layer offers a unique texture that makes this dessert a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

This parfait is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a feast for the senses. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg fills the kitchen as you prepare the gingerbread layers, evoking fond memories of holiday celebrations. The visual appeal of the layers, combined with the garnish of crushed gingerbread cookies, makes it a standout dish for any festive gathering.

Easy to Make and Assemble

One of the best aspects of this Gingerbread Parfait is how simple it is to make. The gingerbread layers come together quickly, with minimal fuss. Once baked, they can be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time on the day of your gathering. The chocolate sauce is equally easy to whip up, requiring just a few minutes on the stovetop.

Assembling the parfaits is a fun and creative process. You can customize the layers to your liking, adjusting the amount of chocolate sauce or whipped cream based on your preference. This not only makes the dessert more enjoyable but also allows you to involve friends and family in the preparation, making it a wonderful activity for all ages.

A Festive Presentation

Serving desserts in individual glasses creates a stunning presentation that elevates the dining experience. The clear glasses allow guests to see the beautiful layers of gingerbread, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream, making them even more enticing. You can use a variety of glassware, from mason jars to elegant dessert cups, depending on the occasion.

To add a festive touch, consider decorating the parfaits with seasonal toppings. In addition to crushed gingerbread cookies, you could sprinkle some holiday-themed sprinkles or add a dash of edible glitter for a sparkling effect. These small details can turn an already delightful dessert into an impressive centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Layers

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Chocolate Sauce

1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For Assembly

Whipped cream for topping
Crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish

Prepare all ingredients before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Gingerbread Layers

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. In another bowl, mix the brown sugar, molasses, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

Bake the Gingerbread

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch square baking pan and bake for 10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.

Assemble the Parfaits

Cut the cooled gingerbread into cubes. In serving glasses, layer the gingerbread cubes with chocolate sauce and whipped cream until the glasses are filled. Top with crushed gingerbread cookies.

Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing treat.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have any leftover Gingerbread Parfait, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh, as the gingerbread may become a bit soggy from the chocolate sauce and whipped cream. To maintain the parfait's texture, consider storing the layers separately and assembling them just before serving.

When serving, allow the parfaits to sit at room temperature for a few minutes for the best flavor experience. This slight warming can enhance the taste of the chocolate sauce and make the overall dessert feel more indulgent and inviting.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this Gingerbread Parfait! You can substitute the chocolate sauce with caramel or butterscotch for a different flavor profile. Adding layers of fruit, such as sliced bananas or raspberries, can also provide a fresh contrast to the rich gingerbread and chocolate, making it a more balanced dessert.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream. This not only adds a tangy flavor but also boosts the protein content, making the dessert a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this parfait ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gingerbread and chocolate sauce in advance and assemble the parfaits a few hours before serving.

→ What can I substitute for molasses?

You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, but the flavor will vary slightly.

→ How long will the parfaits last in the fridge?

The parfaits will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator if covered properly.

→ Can I use store-bought gingerbread?

Absolutely! Store-bought gingerbread can save time and still taste delicious in this parfait.