Parfait (food)

This article is about the frozen dessert. For the religious leader known as a Parfait, see Cathar Perfect.

Layered American parfaits in Osaka, Japan

Jelly of quail, langoustine cream, parfait of foie Gras

Parfait (pronounced [paʁfɛ]) is a French word literally meaning "perfect" commonly employed to describe a kind of frozen dessert, beginning in 1894.

France

In France, parfait refers to a frozen dessert made of sugar syrup, egg, and cream.

It also refers to a very smooth meat paste (or paté), usually made from liver (chicken or duck) and flavoured with liqueurs.

United States

In The United States, parfait refers to either the traditional French-style dessert or to a popular variant, the American parfait, made by layering parfait cream, ice cream, and/or flavored gelatins in a tall, clear glass, and topping the creation with whipped cream, fresh or canned fruit, and/or liqueurs. In the northern United States, parfaits may also be made by using dairy yogurt layered with nuts or fresh fruits such as peaches, strawberries, or blueberries. Although the traditional American parfait is sweet, savory parfaits have also been concocted, such as a parfait made by layering mashed potatoes with barbecue sauce and pulled pork.

See also

• Knickerbocker glory
• Sundae