Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce

Name: Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Whipped cream for topping; Crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Ideas

A delightful blend of spiced gingerbread and creamy layers, topped with rich chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:14:50.782Z

This Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce is a festive treat that combines the warm spices of gingerbread with a luscious chocolate sauce, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time of year.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm spices that evoke holiday cheer
Layers of creamy texture and crunchy gingerbread
Decadent chocolate sauce drizzled on top

      

The Joy of Gingerbread

Gingerbread has long been associated with festive celebrations, and for good reason. The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg create an inviting aroma that instantly lifts the mood. This Gingerbread Parfait captures all the delightful flavors of traditional gingerbread while transforming it into a modern and elegant dessert. Each bite offers a nostalgic reminder of holiday gatherings and cozy evenings by the fire.

The combination of rich molasses and brown sugar not only deepens the flavor of the gingerbread but also contributes to its moist texture. As you prepare this parfait, you'll appreciate how these ingredients meld together to create a dessert that's both comforting and sophisticated.

Chocolate Sauce: The Perfect Pairing

No dessert is complete without a luscious sauce, and this chocolate sauce is the star of the show. Made with bittersweet chocolate and heavy cream, it adds a decadent touch to the gingerbread layers. The smooth, glossy finish of the sauce creates an irresistible contrast to the spiced cake, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

As you drizzle the chocolate sauce over the parfait, watch how it cascades down the sides, creating a beautiful presentation. Not only does it enhance the visual allure, but its rich flavor also complements the warm spices of the gingerbread, making this dessert a true treat for the senses.

A Festive Treat for Any Occasion

This Gingerbread Parfait isn't just limited to the holiday season. Its delightful flavors make it a versatile dessert suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging on a cozy night in, this parfait is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Additionally, the layered presentation makes it an attractive choice for gatherings. You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the parfaits just before serving. This way, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Layers

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

For the Chocolate Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly

Whipped cream for topping
Crushed gingerbread cookies for garnish

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Gingerbread Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, molasses, melted butter, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the buttermilk and egg until well combined.

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before cutting into squares.

Make the Chocolate Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving glasses, layer the gingerbread squares, followed by a layer of chocolate sauce and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies on top.

Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Parfait with Chocolate Sauce!

Tips for Perfectly Layered Parfaits

When assembling your Gingerbread Parfaits, consider the order of the layers carefully. Start with a layer of gingerbread, followed by chocolate sauce and whipped cream. This order not only ensures a beautiful presentation but also allows the flavors to meld together as you dig in. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some extra spices on each layer.

If you want to experiment with textures, try adding some crushed nuts or toffee bits between the layers. This will create a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy and soft layers of the parfait.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftover parfaits, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it's best to keep the whipped cream separate until serving to maintain its fluffiness. You can also freeze the gingerbread layers if you want to prepare them in advance.

When serving, consider adding a sprig of mint or a dusting of cocoa powder on top for an elegant touch. This simple addition can elevate the overall look and taste of your dessert, making it even more inviting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I store the parfaits?

Store the parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but be mindful that the gingerbread may become softer.

→ Can I use store-bought gingerbread cookies?

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

→ Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk and egg replacements.