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Easily customizable, healthy and delicious, these yogurt parfaits are a favorite for breakfast, dessert or snack time.
My kids are obsessed with yogurt parfaits. Not only are they absolutely delicious, they are also something I feel good serving them. Greek yogurt is lower in sugar and rich in calcium and protein. I love using it to replace sour cream or regular yogurt in lots of recipes, like Greek Yogurt Pancakes, Cherry Smoothies, and for the yummy sauce on my Crispy Dill Chicken Sandwich.
What is a Yogurt Parfait?
A yogurt parfait is a layered snack that is worthy of being called a dessert yet healthy enough for breakfast. The layers include creamy, rich Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and a crunchy element, like granola. Let’s break it down:
Yogurt – I choose Greek yogurt over regular yogurt almost every time. It’s smooth and creamy and slightly tart. You can use plain (really tart) or a flavored version like vanilla or strawberry (mildly tart).
Fresh Fruit – My favorite fruit to use is berries. I always have strawberries and blackberries on hand, and today I have blueberries too! You can customize the fruit to everyone’s favorites like bananas, apples, melon, or kiwi. No matter what fruit you use, you’ll love the colorful contrast of the fruit and yogurt layers.
Granola – I have to have crunch and I do that with granola. Nuts or sunflower seeds are also great. My daughter loves to put cereal on her yogurt parfaits.
Want to see some decadent dessert parfaits? Try my Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Cups or Peppermint Cheesecake Brownie Parfaits.
Are Yogurt Parfaits Healthy?
Not only are they incredibly tasty and filling, but homemade yogurt parfaits are a healthy snack, too! Greek yogurt in lower in sugar and is loaded with calcium and protein. Fresh fruit has tons of vitamins.
Granola can be healthy and high in fiber, but pay attention to the ingredients. Some granolas that you can buy are high in calories and have a lot of sugar, so I recommend making your own if you can.
How to Make Yogurt Parfaits
This isn’t as much of a recipe as it is a guide. Layer the yogurt, berries, and granola in pretty glass jars or serving glasses. Top with granola and a drizzle of honey. Add a sprig of mint for color.
That’s it. Easy, right?
What type of yogurt is best for parfaits?
I prefer Greek yogurt because it’s better for you. It’s also creamier and thicker than regular yogurt. Beware of the description some companies use, “Greek-style,” because it’s just regular yogurt with thickeners.
You can use any flavor of yogurt you like. I use vanilla because it’s mild but still sweet. You can also use plain and add a little honey to control the sugar even more.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can absolutely make yogurt parfaits in advance! The granola can get soggy, so I recommend leaving it out of the middle layers and just scooping some on top before serving.
To make ahead, layer the fruit and yogurt in containers and seal with lids or plastic wrap. They will remain fresh for 3-4 days. Add granola and a drizzle of honey just before serving.
Recipe Notes and Tips
- You can use frozen fruit, but I recommend thawing and draining first to avoid a watery parfait.
- The honey drizzle is optional. You could also drizzle between layers or use maple syrup.
- Make sure to cut fruit into bite-sized pieces.
- Instead of granola, try a crunchy cereal, like Honey Nut Cheerios or Life. Or for an extra sweet treat, Fruity Pebbles.
More easy snack ideas
- Greek Whipped Feta Cheese Dip
- Greek Salad Pinwheels
- Strawberry Banana Smoothie
- Slushy Frozen Fruit Cups
- Instant Pot Applesauce
Yogurt Parfait
Ingredients
- 24 ounces vanilla Greek yogurt use any flavor you like
- 1 cup granola
- 2-3 cups sliced berries strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
- 2 tablespoons Honey for drizzling
- Sprig of mint for garnish
Instructions
- In clear glasses or dessert bowls, layer yogurt, berries and granola. Repeat layers, ending with the granola.
- Add a drizzle of honey on top and a sprig of mint, if desired.
Do you have a particular brand of granola you use with this recipe
I like Bear Naked brand, but anything you can find at your local store will work.