Low Carb Strawberry Pistachio Parfaits

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Low Carb Strawberry Pistachio Parfaits are a wonderful combination of textures and flavors that will appeal to your taste buds. The soft and buttery sponge cake layer made from almond and coconut flours provides a solid base, while the sweet strawberry layer adds freshness. The whipped mascarpone cream ties everything together with its smooth, creamy richness, and the crushed pistachios offer a delightful crunch. This dessert is perfect for anyone on a low-carb or ketogenic diet, or anyone simply looking for a healthier yet delicious way to enjoy a sweet treat. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and looks as gorgeous as it tastes!

Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake Layer

• ⅔ cup almond flour
• 4 tbsp powdered sweetener (Monkfruit, Erythritol)
• 3 tbsp coconut flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 tbsp pistachios, crushed
• 2 eggs
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Sweet Strawberry Layer

• 1 lb strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 1 tbsp sweetener (Monkfruit, Erythritol)
• 2 tbsp water

For the Whipped Mascarpone Cream Layer

• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, full fat
• 6 tbsp powdered sweetener (Monkfruit, Erythritol)
• 6 oz whipping cream
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Garnish

• Crushed pistachios
• Halved strawberries

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Sponge Cake Layer:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a small baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, powdered sweetener, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Fold in the crushed pistachios.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the sponge cake to cool completely before cutting into small cubes for layering.

For the Sweet Strawberry Layer:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the hulled and quartered strawberries, sweetener, and water.
2. Gently toss to coat the strawberries and allow them to sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices, creating a syrup.

For the Whipped Mascarpone Cream Layer:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, powdered sweetener, and vanilla extract.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Assembling the Parfaits:

1. In individual serving glasses or jars, layer the sponge cake cubes, followed by a spoonful of the sweet strawberry mixture, and then a layer of the whipped mascarpone cream.
2. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with the mascarpone cream on top.
3. Garnish with additional crushed pistachios and halved strawberries.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 4-6 servings, depending on portion size. It takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare the layers and 1 hour of refrigeration for the parfaits to set.

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Skip the pistachios in the cake and garnish, or replace them with slivered almonds or walnuts if desired.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the mascarpone and whipping cream with coconut cream and a dairy-free mascarpone substitute.
• Flavor Variations: Add a bit of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to the whipped mascarpone cream for a citrus twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the layers intact for the best texture.
• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold and should not be reheated. If the sponge cake becomes a bit soggy from the strawberry layer, it will still taste delicious!

FAQs

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can prepare these parfaits the day before and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it a great make-ahead option.

Can I substitute the sweeteners with regular sugar?

Yes, you can use regular sugar in place of the Monkfruit or Erythritol, but keep in mind it will add carbs, making the recipe no longer low carb.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw them before using them in the strawberry layer.

Is this dessert suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this dessert is keto-friendly as it uses low-carb ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour, along with a low-carb sweetener.

Can I add other fruits to the parfaits?

Certainly! While strawberries are the main fruit in this recipe, you can add a few raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry parfait.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free, as it uses almond flour and coconut flour instead of regular wheat flour, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I use whipped cream instead of mascarpone?

Yes, you can use regular whipped cream or heavy cream in place of mascarpone, though it will change the texture slightly.

Can I make the sponge cake layer ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the sponge cake layer in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days before assembling the parfaits.

How do I know when the sponge cake is done baking?

The sponge cake is done when it’s golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I make these parfaits without the sponge cake layer?

Yes, you can skip the sponge cake if you prefer a lighter dessert. You can just layer the strawberries and whipped mascarpone cream for a simpler parfait.

Conclusion

These Low Carb Strawberry Pistachio Parfaits are a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements, making them an ideal dessert for those on a low-carb or keto diet. With layers of sponge cake, fresh strawberries, and mascarpone cream, this dessert is as decadent as it is healthy. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a weekday treat, this parfait will surely satisfy your cravings without derailing your diet!

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