Breakfast Parfait Recipe: Layered yogurt, fruit & crunch

A breakfast parfait is the fastest way to turn simple ingredients into something that feels special. You layer creamy yogurt, juicy fruit, and a crunchy topping like granola in a glass—done. It works as a healthy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a smart meal-prep option for busy mornings.

What makes a great yogurt parfait?

• Contrast: creamy (yogurt/Skyr) + crunchy (granola) + fresh and juicy (berries/fruit).
• Balance: mild base, bright fruit, optional sweetness (honey, maple, dates).
• Texture: layer more than once so every spoonful hits all notes.

Ingredient ideas & easy swaps

The creamy base:

• Plain yogurt or Greek yogurt for richness
• Skyr or quark-style yogurt for a high-protein parfait
• Plant-based yogurt (soy, coconut, oat) for a vegan parfait

The crunch:

• Granola or muesli (classic, nutty, chocolatey)
• Toasted nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, chia)
• Rolled oats + cinnamon as a simple, budget-friendly option

The fruit:

• Berries (fresh or frozen), banana, mango, apple, pear
• Quick fruit compote (briefly simmer berries) for deeper flavor
• Citrus zest (lemon/orange) for a fresh lift

Tips to keep your parfait from turning soggy

• Store crunch separately if you’re prepping ahead—add granola right before eating.
• Use a thin yogurt “barrier” between very juicy fruit and granola.
• Toast oats or nuts briefly for better bite and aroma.
• For sweetness, lean on ripe fruit first and add syrup/honey only if needed.

Parfait variations you’ll actually use

• High-protein breakfast parfait: Skyr + berries + nuts + a spoon of nut butter.
• Vegan: soy yogurt + mango + coconut flakes + toasted almonds.
• Kid-friendly: yogurt + banana + mild crunch + a few chocolate chips on top.
• Winter version: cinnamon yogurt + apple compote + walnuts + oat crunch.

Meal prep & storage

For meal prep, layer yogurt and fruit in a jar the night before and keep granola in a separate container. The base typically stays fresh in the fridge for 1–2 days depending on ingredients. Add crunchy toppings just before serving for the best texture.

Breakfast parfait FAQ

Can I use frozen berries?
Absolutely—thaw them briefly or simmer into a quick compote for a more intense flavor.

How do I keep it less sweet?
Use plain yogurt, rely on ripe fruit, and flavor with vanilla or cinnamon instead of extra sugar.

What’s the best container?
A small jar with a lid is ideal: easy to transport, great for portioning, and looks beautiful on the table.