Save My aunt introduced me to cashew butter parfaits during a summer visit, and I was skeptical at first. But one spoonful changed my mind completely. The way the creamy nut butter melts into the cold yogurt creates something almost like dessert for breakfast. I started making these on Sunday nights for the week ahead, and they became my little morning ritual.
Last winter, my neighbor was recovering from surgery and I dropped off a batch of these parfaits. She texted me later saying they were the first thing that actually sounded good to eat in days. Theres something about the combination of cool yogurt, sweet fruit, and crunchy nuts that feels nourishing in a gentle way.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: Full fat Greek yogurt gives you that protein punch and velvety texture, but coconut yogurt works beautifully if you need dairy free
- Cashew butter: Look for the kind made from roasted cashews, it has a deeper flavor than raw versions and blends more smoothly
- Fresh berries: Frozen berries will weep and make the layers soggy, so stick with fresh whatever is in season
- Granola: A plain vanilla almond granola lets the cashew butter shine without competing flavors
- Roasted cashews: Chopping these right before you assemble keeps them crisp and prevents them from softening
- Honey or maple syrup: The berries provide plenty of sweetness, so this is really just a finishing touch if you have a sweet tooth
Instructions
- Whip the yogurt base:
- Beat the Greek yogurt and cashew butter together until absolutely no streaks remain, about a minute. The mixture should look like satin.
- Build the first layer:
- Spoon two tablespoons of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of each glass, pressing down gently. This creates your foundation.
- Add the fruit:
- Scatter a handful of berries over the yogurt, pressing them lightly against the glass. They should peek through attractively.
- Sprinkle the crunch:
- Layer about a tablespoon of granola over the berries, keeping it away from the glass edges. This keeps the exterior looking clean.
- Repeat the pattern:
- Continue layering yogurt, berries, then granola until you reach the top. End with fruit and a light granola crown.
- Finish with flair:
- Drizzle honey over the top and scatter the chopped cashews. Serve now or refrigerate up to four hours.
Save These parfaits saved me during finals week in college. Id make four at a time and grab one on my way to the library. Something about eating something beautiful and thoughtfully prepared made the stress feel a little more manageable.
Make Ahead Magic
You can layer these the night before, but expect some texture compromise. The granola softens into something more like muesli, which some people actually prefer. If you want to prep in advance, keep the nuts separate and sprinkle them right before serving.
Fruit Swaps
Berries are classic, but dont limit yourself. Diced peaches work beautifully in summer, and sliced apples with cinnamon take you into autumn. Even mashed banana swirled into the yogurt layer creates something almost like pudding.
Protein Boosts
Sometimes I stir a scoop of protein powder or collagen into the yogurt before layering. You can also fold in ground flaxseed or hemp hearts without changing the flavor much. Just add a splash of milk if the mixture gets too thick.
- Chia seeds absorb excess liquid and keep things creamy longer
- A pinch of cinnamon in the yogurt layer warms up the whole bowl
- Toast the granola at 300 degrees for 10 minutes if it has gone stale
Save Simple enough for weekdays but special enough for brunch guests. Thats the beauty of a really well made parfait.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, plant-based yogurt works well, especially for vegan or dairy-free preferences.
- → What are good alternatives to cashew butter?
Almond butter or peanut butter can be used as tasty substitutes for cashew butter.
- → How can I make this parfait gluten-free?
Use gluten-free granola to ensure the dish is suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → Can I substitute the fresh berries with other fruits?
Seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries are excellent alternatives to fresh berries.
- → Is it possible to prepare this parfait ahead of time?
Yes, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours to enjoy a chilled, refreshing version.