Save to Pinterest This vanilla yogurt and pear breakfast parfait recipe is my favorite way to start the day feeling nourished and energized. Each spoonful layers creamy vanilla Greek yogurt with sweet ripe pears and a satisfying granola crunch. The best part is you can throw these together in minutes for a breakfast that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
When I first made these parfaits for my family on a busy school morning, everyone was excited for breakfast for a change. Now it is our special Saturday treat when we want something cheerful to kick off the weekend.
Ingredients
- Ripe pears: Choose the ripest golden pears for juicy sweetness Peel is optional but the flesh should be soft and fragrant
- Lemon juice: A little splash keeps the pears bright and prevents browning The brighter the lemon the fresher your pears will stay
- Vanilla Greek yogurt: Go for a thick creamy style with visible vanilla bean specks The yogurt brings protein and richness
- Granola: Pick a crunchy blend with nuts and seeds for flavor and texture Look for golden clusters and avoid granolas with loaded added sugar
- Honey or maple syrup: Select a mild honey or real maple syrup for natural sweetness If your pears are super sweet you may not need extra at all
- Chopped toasted nuts: Almonds or walnuts both work for a nutty crunch Toast briefly in a dry pan for flavor if you have time
- Fresh mint leaves: These bring a pop of color and a breath of freshness Pluck the leaves just before serving
Instructions
- Prep the Pears:
- Dice the pears into small bite-size pieces after coring Add to a bowl and toss with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning and staying crisp
- Layer the Yogurt:
- Spoon a generous layer of vanilla Greek yogurt into the bottom of your parfait glasses Use about two tablespoons per glass and smooth to an even base
- Add Pears and Crunch:
- Scatter a layer of the diced pears over the yogurt Follow with a sprinkle of granola making sure some clusters line the glass for a pretty look
- Build More Layers:
- Continue to alternate layers of yogurt pears and granola until you reach the top of your glass Finish with a final dollop of yogurt for a cloud-like topping
- Sweeten and Garnish:
- Drizzle lightly with honey or maple syrup if using Sprinkle chopped toasted nuts and tuck in a fresh mint leaf to finish
- Serve Immediately:
- Parfaits are best enjoyed right away while the granola is still crisp If prepping ahead wait to add granola until just before serving
Save to Pinterest My absolute favorite part of this recipe is how the vanilla yogurt pairs with juicy pears and buttery toasted nuts everything just works together My kids always fight over who gets the parfait with the leafiest mint garnish so I always add extra for fun memories around the table
Storage Tips
If assembling ahead layer the yogurt and pears in your jars and cover tightly The parfaits keep fresh up to two days in the fridge Only add granola and garnishes at the very last minute so they stay crunchy and lively wash mint leaves just before using
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap pears for apples strawberries peaches or any ripe berries For a dairy free version use a creamy coconut or soy yogurt Gluten free granolas abound and bring plenty of crunch even for those with allergies If you do not have nuts add a handful of pumpkin seeds for a different yet nutty chew
Serving Suggestions
Set out a parfait bar with bowls of different fruit granola and nuts so everyone can build their own parfaits Small mason jars or juice glasses show off the beautiful layers and make breakfast feel like a special occasion For a brunch treat top each parfait with edible flowers for a showstopper
A Bite of History
Layered parfaits trace their roots to French cuisine but this version is a modern breakfast twist that celebrates fresh fruit and wholesome grains Yogurt and granola began showing up together in American breakfasts by the 1970s and now they are a classic pair worldwide
Seasonal Adaptations
Choose pears apples or cranberries for fall and winter Reach for ripe berries peaches or plums when summer arrives Top with cinnamon or nutmeg in cooler months for warmth
Success Stories
A friend once made these parfaits for a brunch baby shower and they were gone in minutes Loss of crunch never happens when granola goes in last That fresh mint makes the whole kitchen smell like a garden
Freezer Meal Conversion
Yogurt parfaits are best fresh but you can freeze diced pears on a tray then pack in bags for quick assembly anytime Granola can be stored in the freezer to keep its crunch for months
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your parfaits at their freshest and brightest by assembling just before serving and adding plenty of chilled creamy yogurt and crisp granola to every glass
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Yes, you can substitute pears with apples, peaches, or berries for a different flavor and texture combination.
- → How do I keep the granola crunchy?
For the best texture, add granola just before serving to ensure it stays crisp and doesn't soften.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free granola and double-check all ingredient labels to make this parfait gluten-free.
- → Can I prepare this parfait in advance?
You can assemble the parfaits up to 2 hours ahead. Keep them refrigerated and add granola right before serving.
- → What can I use instead of honey as a sweetener?
Maple syrup works well as an alternative sweetener, or you can omit it for a less sweet option.