Easy Fruit and Yogurt Parfait with Granola (From Scratch Too!)

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Skip the yogurt parfait from McDonald’s and make your own healthy yogurt parfait recipe at home! This recipe is so easy, it’s quicker than going through the drive-thru line. Plus it’s cheaper and so much healthier!

My kids love yogurt and they love granola. Combining these two delicious foods sparked the idea for this yogurt parfait recipe!

I’m all about quick and easy breakfasts, especially on busy mornings which means we usually have a stash of Banana Muffins in the freezer, Homemade Oatmeal Packets in the pantry, and Homemade Yogurt in the fridge. Granola is an easy-to-make staple in my house, too.

Making yogurt parfaits is a natural addition to our meal plan. Served with a variety of fruits, granola, and even oatmeal, it’s a simple, healthy, and cost-effective breakfast or lunch!

It’s also a brilliant way to fuel kids with real food, whole grains, and no added sugar.

Three yogurt parfaits in mason jars. One has sliced bananas and strawberries. The other has blueberries and coconut flakes. The other has blackberries and raspberries.

Here’s Why Yogurt Parfait is a Winner

Creamy yogurt, sweet fruit, and crunchy granola, what’s not to love?!

Full-fat homemade yogurt is so good for gut health with many probiotics. I use this recipe for making my yogurt and then turn it into Greek yogurt using this method.

Buying fruit in season is gentle on the budget and gives you the best taste. We often buy a lot of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries when the price is low and then freeze extras. (Follow this tutorial on how to freeze blueberries!)

I’ve also been known to make yogurt parfaits with jam. A layer of strawberry jam in between yogurt and peanut butter granola tastes like a PB&J in a jar!

And let’s not forget about the granola. I LOVE GRANOLA! Cheap, easy to make, and good for you. It makes “cereal Fridays” a breeze AND I know my kids are filling up on healthy food. We love cinnamon granola, peanut butter chocolate chip, strawberry chocolate, and cranberry orange.

Two bananas next to ingredients for yogurt parfaits. Bowl of raspberries, bowl of black berries, bowl of coconut flakes, bowl of granola, bowl of sliced strawberries, bowl of blueberries, and three jars of yogurt. There are two spoons next to the jars.

Greek Yogurt Parfait Recipe Ingredients

I love yogurt granola parfaits because they are made with 3 simple ingredients.

Yogurt. Any type of yogurt works here. We love homemade Greek yogurt.
Granola. Any type of granola will work, too. I included a recipe for simple peanut butter granola below.
Fresh fruit. Strawberries, blueberries, bananas. Choose fruit that is in season. It will be the best for your budget!

Overview of three yogurt parfaits in mason jars

How to Make a Parfait

If you need to make granola, start with Step 1. If not, skip down to Step 3.

Step 1: Preheat oven to 275F. Combine ½ cup peanut butter and ⅓ cup, honey, in a large bowl. Add 2 cups rolled oats, 1 Tbsp coconut oil, and ¼ tsp salt and mix well. The granola will be clumpy.

Step 2: Place granola onto a baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes, turning gently with a spatula halfway through. Allow granola to cool thoroughly before storing it in a container.

Overview of three yogurt parfaits. One has yogurt and sliced strawberries, the other has yogurt and blueberries, the other has yogurt and blackberries.

Step 3: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in a bowl or glass.

Step 4: Enjoy your fruit and yogurt parfait!

Three yogurt parfaits with sliced fruit and yogurt and granola. The mason jars of parfaits are on a cutting board with three spoons.

Yogurt Parfait Ideas and Variations

Make a breakfast parfait to-go: Layer your ingredients in a mason jar. Top with a lid to carry it on the go. Don’t limit this option to breakfast though, it works perfectly for school lunches!
Use different kinds of granola: This cinnamon granola is a perfect starting point. You can create so many different types of granola by using a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Use up leftover oatmeal: If you don’t have granola on hand, use up some leftover oatmeal as your grain layer.
Add extra toppings: Sprinkle on toasted nuts or coconut flakes. Drizzle on warmed peanut butter or almond butter. Or even add diced apples and maple syrup!
Make a Keto parfait: Use a low-carb yogurt and make a “grain-free granola” out of toasted nuts and coconut flakes.
Make them dairy free: Use dairy-free yogurt.
Turn it into a dessert parfait: Skip the ice cream parfaits and make a healthy dessert! Use vanilla yogurt and crushed graham crackers topped with fresh berries. Add a little homemade whipped cream and mini chocolate chips to make it super fancy.

FAQs about Fresh Fruit Parfait

Can I use a different kind of yogurt?

Absolutely! You can substitute the plain yogurt for Greek yogurt, or even a plant-based yogurt if you prefer. You can also choose yogurt in a variety of flavors (I’m a little partial to raspberry). The key is to make sure the yogurt you choose is tasty and healthy.

How long does this yogurt parfait last?

When stored correctly, this parfait can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. This makes it ideal for preparing ahead of time and packing for school lunches.

Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can! Frozen fruits work well when fresh ones aren’t available. This tutorial on freezing strawberries is a great start.

How can I add more protein to this yogurt parfait?

For an extra protein boost, you could consider adding a scoop of collagen to the yogurt or mixing in some chia seeds or flax seeds. A sprinkling of almonds or cashews can also enhance the protein content!

More Easy Breakfast Ideas

Cement kitchen counter filled with serving dishes of food; salad wraps, vegetable and fruit platter and fresh cut bread and a bowl of garnished dip. Text overlay One Week No Cook Meal Plan.

No Cook Meal Plan