Berry Parfait

Last summer my neighbor brought over pint baskets of berries from her garden and I had way more than we could eat before they spoiled. Layering them with yogurt and granola in clear glasses became my emergency solution and somehow it looked like something from a fancy café window.

I made these for my book club and three people immediately asked for the recipe. There is something universally appealing about those visible layers, like opening a present before you even take a bite.

Ingredients

• Greek yogurt: The thick texture holds the layers better than regular yogurt and adds protein that keeps you full longer
• Mixed berries: Strawberries bring sweetness while blueberries and raspberries add tartness and those gorgeous jewel tones
• Granola: Provides that essential crunch element and binds everything together with its honeyed clusters
• Honey or maple syrup: Optional but worth it if your berries are on the tart side—just a drizzle makes all the difference

Instructions

Start with the base:

Spoon two tablespoons of yogurt into the bottom of each glass, pressing it gently to create an even foundation

Add the crunch:

Layer two tablespoons of granola over the yogurt, making sure it covers the surface completely

First fruit layer:

Scatter about two tablespoons of mixed berries on top of the granola, letting them fall naturally into gaps

Build it up:

Repeat the yogurt, granola, and berry layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with berries on top for that picture-perfect presentation

Sweeten if desired:

Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the final layer, watching it pool in the crevices

Serve with timing:

Enjoy right away for maximum crunch or refrigerate up to two hours—the granola softens slightly but still holds its texture

Pin it

My daughter started requesting these for breakfast instead of cereal and honestly I cannot blame her. Something about eating from a pretty glass makes the morning feel special.

Make It Your Own

Once you get the layering technique down, these parfaits become a canvas. Try adding sliced bananas, diced peaches, or even a dusting of cinnamon between layers for warmth.

Perfecting The Layers

The trick to clean distinct layers is using the back of a spoon to gently press each layer flat before adding the next. Take your time with this step—it makes the final presentation look professional.

Meal Prep Magic

These work surprisingly well for grab-and-go breakfasts when you prep everything in separate containers the night before. Keep the granola in a small bag and layer it in right before eating.

• Use mason jars for easy transport
• Swap in seasonal fruit as the months change
• Double the recipe for meal prep throughout the week

Pin it

Simple, beautiful, and never disappointing—this is the kind of recipe that reminds you why we cook at all.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble these parfaits up to 2 hours before serving. Refrigerate until ready to enjoy, though the granola will soften slightly over time.

→ What berries work best?

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are classic choices. You can also use sliced kiwi, mango, or whatever fresh fruit is in season.

→ Is this suitable for dietary restrictions?

Use dairy-free yogurt and gluten-free granola to accommodate vegan or gluten-free needs. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Frozen berries work well—thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before layering to prevent the parfait from becoming watery.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Try adding chia seeds, sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of nut butter between layers for extra flavor and nutrition.