Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait Recipe

There's something magical about the way fresh berries burst with flavor on a warm summer morning. Paired with creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of crunchy granola, this Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait is like sunshine in a glass.

I first made this parfait as a last-minute brunch idea when friends stopped by unannounced. With a fridge full of seasonal fruit and my favorite vanilla yogurt on hand, I layered everything into little jars, and the result was an instant crowd-pleaser.

This parfait is perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or even as a light, refreshing dessert. Let’s dig into why it’s a summer staple in our kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait

Looking for a recipe that's as beautiful as it is delicious? This Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait checks every box.

First, it's fast and easy. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, you can whip this up in under 10 minutes. It’s ideal for hectic mornings or last-minute entertaining.

It’s incredibly healthy. Packed with antioxidants from the berries, protein from the yogurt, and fiber from the granola, this parfait is a wholesome way to start your day or satisfy a sweet craving.

Totally customizable. You can use any combination of berries or yogurt you love. From Greek to plant-based options, this recipe fits a variety of diets and preferences.

Visually stunning and perfect for guests. Served in clear glasses or jars, the vibrant layers of fruit, creamy yogurt, and golden granola make this dish as eye-catching as it is tasty.

Whether you’re meal prepping breakfast or hosting brunch on the patio, this parfait is bound to impress. Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make it so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait lies in its simplicity. Every component adds texture, color, and flavor, making this dish feel indulgent without any fuss.

Berries are the star of the show. I like to use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a variety of color and flavor. Make sure to rinse them well and pat dry. If strawberries are large, slice them for better layering.

Yogurt provides the creamy, tangy base. My go-to is vanilla Greek yogurt because it’s thick and lightly sweetened, but plain yogurt works just as well—just add a drizzle of honey if you prefer a touch of sweetness.

Granola brings the crunch. Choose a granola with clusters that will hold up against the moisture of the yogurt. I love one with almonds and a hint of cinnamon for extra depth.

Honey or maple syrup is optional, but a light drizzle can elevate the parfait, especially if you’re using plain or unsweetened yogurt. It also adds a lovely glossy finish to the top layer.

For equipment, all you need are small glasses, jars, or bowls to build your parfaits, plus a spoon for layering. If you're serving a crowd, prep everything ahead and let guests assemble their own!

How To Make This Summer Berry and Yogurt Parfait

Making these parfaits is as easy as layering flavors and textures. Here's how I like to do it:

Start by prepping your berries. Rinse them thoroughly and set them on a clean towel to dry. Slice any large strawberries into thin pieces for easier layering. Having everything prepped makes the assembly process smooth and quick.

Next, get your serving glasses ready. I like to use clear jars or stemless wine glasses so the beautiful layers are visible. It makes the parfaits feel extra special, even if it's just breakfast for one.

Begin layering with a spoonful or two of yogurt at the bottom of each glass. Follow with a handful of berries, mixing up the types for a pop of color. Then sprinkle a layer of granola on top for crunch.

Repeat the layers—yogurt, berries, granola—until you reach the top of your glass. Aim for at least two full sets of layers so each bite is balanced and flavorful.

If desired, finish with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, a few fresh berries, and a final sprinkle of granola. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving for a more chilled experience.

Total time? Less than 10 minutes from start to finish. Expect bright flavors, satisfying texture, and lots of oohs and ahhs from anyone you serve it to.

Storage Options

Parfaits are best served fresh to maintain the crunch of the granola. However, if you’re prepping ahead, there are a few tricks to keep everything tasting great.

If making the parfaits in advance, store the yogurt and berries layered together in sealed jars in the fridge. Keep the granola separate in a small container or bag, then add it just before serving to preserve its crunch.

These parfaits will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. The berries may release a bit of juice, but this just adds to the flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing just the berries, especially if they’re about to turn. Then thaw and use them as needed with fresh yogurt and granola.

When reheating isn't an issue, simply assemble and enjoy cold. But if you'd like a warm variation, try heating the berries briefly to create a compote-style layer—more on that below.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, making it easy to adapt based on what you have or what you're craving.

Swap the yogurt. Use plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond if you're dairy-free. Greek yogurt offers more protein, while plain yogurt gives you control over the sweetness.

Use different fruits. No berries? No problem. Try sliced peaches, nectarines, or kiwi. Even frozen berries work in a pinch—just thaw and drain excess liquid first.

Change the granola. If you’re avoiding grains or gluten, opt for nut-based granolas or toasted seeds. You can even use crushed graham crackers or cookies for a dessert twist.

Add mix-ins. Chia seeds, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips can be sprinkled in for extra flavor and fun. These are great if you’re serving kids or looking for a more indulgent version.

Turn it into a dessert. Layer the parfaits with a touch of whipped cream or lemon curd for a more decadent treat that still feels light and summery.

Don't be afraid to get creative. Parfaits are forgiving and fun—once you master the base, the variations are endless. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

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