Milk and Cereal Party Parfait with Frosted Cherry Crunch

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch, sifted
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• 2 cups frosted cherry cereal, crushed
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt

Method

1. 01
   In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. 02
   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of milk to form a slurry. Slowly whisk this slurry into the saucepan.
3. 03
   Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth custard. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
4. 04
   Fold the whipped cream gently into the cooled custard to create a light, fluffy texture.
5. 05
   In a separate bowl, combine crushed frosted cherry cereal with chopped dried cherries and salt.
6. 06
   To assemble the parfaits, layer custard and cereal mixture alternately in serving glasses, starting with the custard.
7. 07
   Top each parfait with a final sprinkle of the frosted cherry cereal mixture for extra crunch.
8. 08
   Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.