Key Takeaways:
- Yogurt parfaits are a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack option. They are easy to make ahead and customize to your taste.
- Using probiotic yogurt provides gut-healthy benefits. Greek yogurt works well for a thicker, creamier texture.
- Layer yogurt with fresh or frozen berries and crunchy granola. Granola adds great texture contrast.
- Make ahead and store in jars or containers up to 3 days. Add granola topping right before eating to keep it crunchy.
Introduction
Yogurt parfaits are one of my favorite easy breakfasts. With layers of creamy yogurt, juicy berries, and a crunchy granola topping, they make a satisfying and energizing start to the day. I like to use probiotic yogurt for the extra digestive benefits. And homemade granola adds wonderful flavor and texture.
The great thing about parfaits is how customizable they are. You can use any combination of yogurt, fruit, and granola that suits your taste. They also make the perfect grab-and-go breakfast when you assemble them in portable jars. Here’s how to make probiotic yogurt parfait cups at home.
Ingredients Needed:
- 32 oz probiotic yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
- 2 cups mixed berries (blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, etc.)
- 1 cup homemade granola (or store-bought)
- 8 oz mason jars or parfait cups
- Honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the berries
Rinse and dry the berries. For strawberries, hull and slice them. For blueberries or raspberries, leave them whole.
You can use fresh or frozen berries. If using frozen, let thaw slightly before assembling.
2. Make the granola (or prepare store-bought)
You can find recipes for easy homemade granola online. Or use your favorite store-bought brand.
3. Assemble the parfaits
Start by adding a few tablespoons of yogurt into the bottom of a jar or parfait cup. Top with a layer of berries, then more yogurt.
Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the jar, ending with yogurt.
4. Add granola and sweetener
Top each parfait with 2-3 tablespoons of granola. If desired, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the granola layer.
5. Refrigerate
Cover the jars and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The granola will soften over time, so add it right before eating if you want it extra crunchy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy yogurt parfaits for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- For added protein, add nuts, chia seeds, or nut butter.
- Switch up the fruits – try mango, peach, or mixed berries.
- For variety, use different types of yogurt like vanilla or coconut yogurt.
- Top with crushed cookies, sprinkles, or coconut for a fun dessert parfait.
- Make a batch on the weekend for easy grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
The Benefits of Probiotic Yogurt:
- Provides healthy gut bacteria that can improve digestion and immunity.
- Aids in nutrient absorption and vitamin production.
- Helps reduce bloating, gas, and other digestive issues.
- May help boost overall health and prevent certain diseases.
So enjoy these soggy probiotic yogurt parfaits knowing you’re getting an extra dose of gut-healthy benefits! The delicious layers of fresh fruit and crunch make them a breakfast I look forward to each morning.
Additional Tips for Perfect Parfaits
Use Fresh, Seasonal Berries
During summer, take advantage of delicious in-season berries like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. The fresh flavors and juices really enhance the parfaits. Mix and match for a rainbow of colors and flavors.
Make a Simple Berry Puree
In the off-season when fresh berries aren’t available, make an easy berry puree for the parfaits. Blend thawed frozen berries, a bit of honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice. Spoon on top of the yogurt layers.
Change up the Fruits
Don’t limit yourself to just berries! Diced peaches, mango, pineapple, bananas, and kiwi all make tasty parfait layers too. Get creative with whatever fruits are in season.
Homemade Crunchy Granola
For ultimate flavor and texture, make your own granola at home. Toast rolled oats with nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, cinnamon, vanilla, and a bit of sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Let it cool completely before using.
Protein Power Boosts
Stir in chia seeds, slivered almonds, hemp seeds, ground flax, or nut butters into the yogurt for extra staying power. This adds protein to keep you full longer.
Use Mason Jars
For grab-and-go breakfasts, assemble the parfaits in wide-mouth pint sized mason jars. Layer the ingredients and then seal – perfect portable parfaits!
Make Them “Fun-Faits”
Kids love helping to build their own parfaits. Set out ingredients and let them mix and match fruits and crunchy toppings to their liking.
Conclusion
Yogurt parfaits are such a fun and healthy breakfast. With a few simple tips, you can easily whip up these probiotic-packed treats at home. Use fresh seasonal berries, switch up the fruits, and add protein boosts. Making them in mason jars allows for easy on-the-go breakfasts. Let the kids get involved too for their own creative “fun-faits”. Enjoy your homemade yogurt parfaits knowing they provide a delicious dose of gut-healthy probiotics!