4 Steps to the Perfect Parfaits

Did you know that parfait means “perfect” in French? However, French parfaits are a bit different than those here in America. Here parfaits are typically yogurt layered with fruit and some crunch, while in France the yogurt is a base with sugar, eggs, and cream topped with fruit.

Parfaits can be enjoyed at any time of the day, on the go or sitting down.  What makes them such a great snack or part of a meal is that they can include three food groups: fruit, dairy and grain.

Luckily National Parfait Day is November 25^th, making now the perfect time of dive deeper into parfaits and how you can make it your way.

Have a Parfait Your Way

Making a parfait at home is not only easy, it’s a fun way to get everyone, big and small, involved in the kitchen. Before you head to the store, check your pantry and refrigerator. You may have all the ingredients you already need to make the perfect parfait. Keep reading to check out my 4 steps to make the perfect parfait.

1. Start with yogurt as a base. Add a few dollops of your favorite flavored yogurt into a short cup. I like to buy a quart of yogurt, especially when the whole family is going to enjoy this tasty treat.

2. Coat the yogurt in a thin layer of crunch. You can use any sort of “crunch” that you enjoy or just something that you have on hand. Some ideas include crushed graham crackers, granola, dry cereal or nuts.

3. Top with fruit. You can use cut up fresh fruit or even frozen fruit. This is where you can get really creative and choose fruits based on your flavor preference.

4. Continue to alternate between layers of yogurt, crunch and fruit. You can add as many layers as you heart desires. Once you feel there are enough layers, you are all set – time to enjoy!

Tip: For a touch of sweetness you can add a drizzle of honey to the top of the parfait.

4 Simple Parfait Recipes

Now that you know the steps to making a parfait, what kind of parfait will you make? If you’re looking for ideas, look no further than the list below to get you started.

1. Blueberry Lemon Parfait: Use lemon yogurt as your base and add in a handful of blueberries. You can even add in some crushed-up graham crackers for a little crunch.

2. Red, White and Blue Parfait: Show your patriotism year-round with red, white and blue parfait! Using vanilla or plain yogurt as a base, alternate between layers of strawberries or raspberries, granola, and blueberries.

3. Tropical Parfait: Dream of warmer and sunnier days while eating this tropical twist parfait! Add cut up pieces of kiwi, mango, pineapple and honey glazed granola to vanilla yogurt. You can even try using coconut yogurt!

4. Peachy Parfait: Everything is peachy keen when you’re enjoying this parfait. Slice up some peaches into cubes and add them to vanilla yogurt with toasted almonds and oats. Try using a fruit-based yogurt for an even more flavorful breakfast.

No matter which recipe you choose, one of the above or your own, enjoy a parfait this month. This staple breakfast item is a great way to incorporate many essential nutrients into your day.

Your Turn to Take Action: Do you have a favorite way to make your perfect parfait? Let me know in the comments below!

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