Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe

There’s something about layering sweet strawberries with creamy Greek yogurt and crunchy granola that makes me feel like I’ve just unlocked the ultimate breakfast hack. Let me spill the beans on how to create this delightful parfait that’s perfect for any time of the day!

Creating simple yet delightful treats is what I love—and my Easy Strawberry Parfait is an ideal way to showcase fresh strawberries. It has a base of protein-packed Greek yogurt, a layer of granola that makes the parfait satisfyingly crunchy, and a heaping portion of the berries themselves.

Strawberry-loving kids and adults will find this parfait a delicious, light breakfast or dessert option.

Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe Ingredients

• Strawberries: A rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants, these berries add a juicy sweetness and vibrant color to your parfait.
• Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, it provides a creamy texture and a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Granola: Adds a crunchy texture and is a great source of fiber and whole grains, providing long-lasting energy.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries, balancing their tartness.
• Honey (optional): A natural sweetener that adds floral notes and depth of flavor.

Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
• 1 cup granola
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe

1. Combine the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar in a small bowl, and stir gently to coat. Allow them to sit in stillness for about 10 minutes to become fully macerated and relinquish their juices.

2. As the strawberries are macerating, ready the Greek yogurt by stirring in the vanilla extract, if you are using it. This adds another layer of flavor but is optional.

3. Spoon a layer of Greek yogurt into the bottom of a glass or serving cup.

4. Put a layer of granola on top of the yogurt, making sure it’s even.

5. Spread evenly the layer of macerated strawberries atop the granola.

6. Should you use honey, drizzle a small amount over the strawberries for extra sweetness.

7. Reiterate the strata of yogurt, granola, and strawberries until the glass is full, or you’ve exhausted your materials, closing with the slightly unconventional topping of strawberries.

8. Top with more granola for a crunchy finish and, if you’d like, a few fresh mint leaves for a hint of refreshing flavor.

9. To savor the parfait at its optimal texture, serve it immediately.

10. For a texture that’s not quite so crunchy, let the parfait sit for a few minutes before serving. The yogurt will soften the granola enough for you to call this a “strawberry smoothie parfait” without any qualms. Enjoy!

Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Small bowl
2. Spoon
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Glass or serving cup(s)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?A: Yes, but be certain to thaw them and drain any excess liquid from them to prevent the parfait from being too watery.
• Q: What can I use as a substitute for granola?You can apply crushed nuts, seeds, or a preferred breakfast cereal in their place.
• Q: Is there a vegan version of this parfait?A: Yes, use a non-dairy yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
• Q: How long can I store the parfait in the refrigerator?A: You can keep it for a maximum of 1 day, but for the best texture and also for the reasons mentioned in the intro, it is advisable to eat it right after making it.
• Q: How can I make the parfait healthier?A: Use plain Greek yogurt, never choose sugary options, and go for a lower-sugar granola or whole grains like oats. Yogurt isn’t breakfast’s villain. Sweetened yogurt is.
• Q: Can I add other fruits to the parfait?A: You can definitely add blueberries, raspberries, or any of your favorite fruits. Why not?

Easy Strawberry Parfait Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend can be used in place of fresh strawberries for a different berry flavor.
Granulated sugar can be replaced with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to obtain a sweetener that is more natural.
Greek yogurt can be replaced with regular yogurt, coconut yogurt, or almond milk yogurt for a dairy-free option.
You can use crushed nuts, toasted oats, or seeds to substitute for granola in order to get the added crunch and variety that these elements provide.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Glasses For a cooler and more refreshing experience, chill the serving glasses in the refrigerator before layering the parfait. This enhances the overall presentation and the eating experience.

2. Enhance the Maceration Add a tiny pinch of salt to the strawberries when macerating with sugar. This will help draw out more juices from the strawberries and intensify their flavor.

3. Granola Variety Use a mix of granola types or add extras like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor. This can elevate the parfait and add nutritional benefits.

4. Layer with Precision Use a spoon or a piping bag to carefully layer the yogurt and strawberries to create distinct and attractive layers. This not only looks appealing but also provides a balanced taste in every spoonful.

5. Flavor Infusion If you have the time, infuse the yogurt with vanilla extract or mint leaves a few hours before assembling the parfait. This will enhance the flavor profile and make the yogurt more aromatic.