When It comes to my favorite breakfast recipes, I love something quick, nutritious, and versatile. That’s why I’m obsessed with avocado toast, overnight oats, acai bowls, and now healthy fruit and yogurt parfait cups!
What Is Yogurt Parfait
A yogurt parfait (also called a fruit parfait) is a popular American breakfast or dessert dish. It’s made by layering elements such as rich and creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, nuts, and liqueurs into a cup or jar (so you can see the layers), and top it off with sweet fruit and/or whipped cream. Unlike traditional parfait recipes, too, which can include high amounts of cream or even ice cream, yogurt parfaits are a healthier alternative and can be enjoyed as a breakfast, brunch, or dessert treat! By layering the ingredients, you can enjoy a bit of all the elements in every single bite. The result is a healthy treat that tastes like dessert and is adored by kids and adults alike.
Are Yogurt Parfaits Healthy?
Just like smoothie bowls, a yogurt parfait can be healthy. It depends on the ingredients you’re using and your dietary goals. For example, many parfait recipes can contain high levels of sugar, but if you specifically use low-sugar granola and “sauce”, this is minimized. At its base, this recipe is simply yogurt, fruit, and granola. This combination is packed with fiber, protein, several micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and gut-healthy elements. Luckily, when making homemade parfaits, you can be 100% in control of all the ingredients added to your jars, meaning you can tweak them to your flavor and dietary needs! In many cases, the result is a nourishing, nutrient, and protein-packed yogurt fruit parfait perfect for helping keep you satiated until your next meal! You might also enjoy checking out this list of 50+ Healthy Vegetarian Breakfast Ideas for more ideas.
What Is In a Yogurt Parfait
I made this fruit & yogurt parfait recipe with simple and versatile base elements for a fruit parfait that’s high in protein, low in sugar, and absolutely delicious!
Yogurt: First up, what type of yogurt is best for making yogurt parfaits? You can make a regular dairy natural or Greek yogurt parfait. Alternatively, to make a vegan yogurt parfait, use a dairy-free yogurt like:Coconut yogurtSoy yogurtAlmond yogurt
Fruit: Use all your favorite fresh fruits (canned and sometimes frozen work too) based on the season and what you have in your kitchen when pulling together a fruits yogurt parfait. I used a combination of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for this version. Other options include:PeachesMangoNectarinePlumRaspberries, blackberries, other fresh berriesCherriesPomegranateBanana
You could also use roasted or grilled fruits (like pineapple, mango, or peaches). The sugars within caramelize for a dessert-like fruit parfait recipe.
Granola: Use your favorite granola, choosing one that fits your dietary needs (i.e., gluten-free, low sugar, high fiber, high protein, etc.). I used my nutty homemade granola. Muesli would also work for less crunch.Sauce: I love adding a sauce-y element for extra flavor and color. This time around, I used my homemade strawberry topping. You could also use syrups, jams/jellies, or even peanut butter.
Check the recipe card below for a lot more suggestions for optional ingredients for parfait.
How to Make a Yogurt Parfait
Learning how to make a parfait of fruits with yogurt and granola couldn’t be much more straightforward. If you plan to use any homemade elements (i.e., yogurt, granola, or sauce), you’ll need to prepare these first. Then, to assemble the parfaits, simply alternate layers of granola, a scoop of yogurt, sauce, and fruit (1-2 Tbsp each time) until you fill the glasses/mason jars. Enjoy!
How Long Do Yogurt Parfaits Last in the Fridge
Once assembled, enjoy the breakfast parfait within a few hours to avoid soggy granola. Can yogurt parfaits be made ahead? To meal prep a fruit parfait without the granola becoming soggy, I recommend preparing the various ingredients and storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge (for 3-4 days). Then simply assemble them when needed. Alternatively, prepare the fruit parfaits, leaving the granola to sprinkle over the top when serving.
More Healthy Recipes
Healthy Yogurt PopsiclesThe Best 5 Healthy Dessert-Inspired Overnight Oats3 Ingredient Chia PuddingSimple Blueberry Kale Smoothie Bowl Recipe
If you try this healthy 5-minute fruit and yogurt parfait recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts/questions below. Also, I’d appreciate a recipe card rating below, and tag me in your recipe recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
