Yogurt Parfait Recipe

Sweeten and flavor yogurt

In a medium bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt and optional vanilla yogurt. Stir in the honey or maple syrup and lemon zest until smooth and evenly sweetened. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.

Chill the sweetened yogurt in the refrigerator while you prepare fruit and toppings so it is cold when assembling.

Wash all fruit thoroughly. Hull and quarter strawberries, slice kiwi and banana, and drain any excess water from blueberries. Keep banana slices separate and only add when assembling to avoid browning.

If using particularly juicy fruit, blot with a paper towel to remove excess moisture so the parfait layers stay distinct.

Quick berry compote

In a small saucepan, combine mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Use a spoon to mash any large pieces if desired. Cool before layering in parfaits.

If your almonds are not toasted, heat a small dry skillet over medium heat and toast sliced almonds, stirring, until lightly golden and fragrant, 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.

Measure out granola and seeds so they are ready to layer.

Choose clear glasses or jars to show the layers (4 small parfaits or 2 large). Spoon about 2 tablespoons of granola into the bottom of each glass to create a crunchy base.

Add a layer of yogurt: spoon about 1/4 cup (or proportionally for your serving size) of the sweetened yogurt on top of the granola and smooth lightly.

Add a layer of fruit: distribute a mixture of the prepared strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi (about 2–3 tablespoons) over the yogurt. If using banana, add a few slices now.

Optional: spoon 1 tablespoon of the cooled berry compote over the fruit layer for extra flavor and color.

Repeat the layers: add another 1/4 cup yogurt, then a spoonful of granola (about 1–2 tablespoons), and finish with more fruit on top.

Finish and garnish: sprinkle toasted almonds and chia or flax seeds over the top. Add a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired and garnish with a mint leaf.

Serve immediately to keep the granola crunchy. If making ahead, assemble up to the penultimate step (leaving granola and nuts off) and refrigerate for up to 6 hours; add granola and garnish just before serving.