Start your day with a vibrant and satisfying fruit and yogurt parfait that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Layered with creamy Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this parfait is high in protein, fiber-rich, and provides healthy fats.
Quick to assemble, it’s perfect for busy mornings, wholesome snacks, or easy meal prep for a grab-and-go option.
Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
Equipment
- 4 small jars or glasses
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 cups full-fat plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey optional, if using plain yogurt
- 3 cups fresh mixed berries strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries
- 1 cup granola plus extra for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you begin layering your parfait, gather all your ingredients. Wash the fresh berries thoroughly under cold running water and gently pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. If your yogurt is plain, stir in the honey or sweetener of your choice until fully incorporated. Measure out your granola so it’s ready to add, and line up four small jars, glasses, or bowls for assembling your parfaits.
- Create the First Fruit Layer: Start with a base of fresh berries in each jar. Spoon approximately ¼ cup of berries into the bottom of each container. This first layer will add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a juicy foundation that contrasts nicely with the creamy yogurt layers. Gently press the berries down with the back of a spoon to make a flat, even surface for the next layer.
- Add the First Yogurt Layer: Using a spoon, add ¼ cup of Greek yogurt over the berries in each jar. Spread it evenly so it completely covers the fruit beneath. This layer provides a creamy texture and balances the tartness of the berries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Take care not to mix the yogurt with the berries to maintain distinct, visible layers.
- Layer More Fruit: Next, spoon another ¼ cup of berries on top of the first yogurt layer. Distribute them evenly, keeping the fruit in a single layer if possible. This step adds a fresh burst of flavor and ensures that each bite contains a mix of creamy yogurt and juicy berries. For visual appeal, alternate different berry types to create a colorful pattern.
- Add the Second Yogurt Layer: Add another ¼ cup of yogurt on top of the second fruit layer, spreading it gently and evenly. This layer helps hold the granola in place and adds extra creaminess. Smooth the surface carefully so the next granola layer will sit neatly without sinking into the yogurt.
- Add Crunch with Granola: Sprinkle ¼ cup of granola evenly over the second yogurt layer. This adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smooth yogurt and soft berries. If your granola has larger clusters, break them slightly to ensure an even layer and prevent uneven bites. This step is where texture really elevates the parfait.
- Top with Final Yogurt and Fruit: Add another ¼ cup of yogurt on top of the granola, spreading it carefully to cover the crunch layer without crushing it. Then, finish with a final ¼ cup of berries arranged attractively on top. This top layer creates a visually appealing finish, showcasing the vibrant colors of the fruit and inviting anyone to dig in.
- Optional Garnish: For extra flair, sprinkle additional granola, chopped nuts, chia seeds, or a light drizzle of honey over the top layer. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cinnamon for added aroma and visual appeal. This step is optional but elevates the parfait for guests or special occasions.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy the parfait immediately for maximum freshness and crunch. If you’re preparing ahead, cover each jar with a lid or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any extra granola separate to preserve its crisp texture. When ready to eat, simply add the granola on top and enjoy a fresh, nutritious snack or breakfast.
Notes
- Sweetener Options: Swap honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar-free alternative to suit your taste.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free, protein-rich option.
- Grain-Free Alternative: Choose a grain-free granola made from nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes for a lower-carb option.
- Fruit Variations: Try mango, banana, kiwi, peaches, pineapple, or cherries instead of berries for a unique flavor twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare jars in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days for a grab-and-go breakfast.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Layers
Layering is the key to a visually appealing and balanced parfait.
Start with berries at the bottom to add color and natural sweetness, then alternate yogurt and granola layers to maintain texture and crunch.
For extra creaminess, gently fold a tablespoon of yogurt into the granola before layering.
Always keep granola separate until serving if you want it to stay crunchy.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Guests
This parfait is versatile and can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as a healthy dessert.
Top with a drizzle of nut butter or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon add aroma and elegance.
Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a complete morning boost, or serve alongside a smoothie bowl for a colorful brunch spread.
Storage Tips For Freshness
Fruit and yogurt parfaits store well in the refrigerator, making them ideal for meal prep.
Assemble jars without granola for up to 3 days to maintain crunchiness. Add granola just before serving.
Use airtight containers to prevent odors from affecting the yogurt and to keep berries fresh.
If using soft fruits like bananas or mangoes, store them separately and add right before eating to avoid browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use flavored yogurt?
Yes! Vanilla or fruit-flavored Greek yogurt works well. Just be mindful of added sugars, which can increase the overall sweetness of your parfait.
2. Is this recipe high in protein?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt provides 15–20 grams of protein per serving, making this parfait a satisfying breakfast or post-workout snack.
3. Can I freeze the parfait?
It’s not recommended to freeze fully assembled parfaits, as the texture of yogurt and fruit changes. You can, however, freeze berries in advance for a colder parfait experience.
4. How do I make it kid-friendly?
Layer colorful fruits, use a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and serve in small, fun cups. Kids love assembling their own parfaits with a “build-your-own” station.
5. Can I prepare this for a large group?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredients and use larger jars or a trifle dish for buffet-style serving. Keep granola separate until just before serving to maintain crunch.
