Quick & Creamy Strawberry Yogurt Parfait Delight

Yogurt Fruit Parfait: A Delectable Delight

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Description:

Hey guys and girls, I’m thrilled to share this delightful Yogurt Fruit Parfait recipe with you, a treasure I discovered in an old issue of Choices for Living (Healthy Choice) magazine. Created by Joan Sorg, this recipe is a perfect way to savor those fresh strawberries you might have picked at a berry farm. Bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, this parfait combines the tang of yogurt, the richness of cream cheese, and the sweetness of fruits in a harmony that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Recipe Category:

Dessert

Keywords:

Lunch/Snacks
Cheese
Fruit
Kid Friendly
< 15 Mins
No Cook
Small Appliance
Easy

Ingredients:

For this simple yet luscious parfait, you’ll need the following:

Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Fat-free cream cheese: 1 tablespoon
Cherry pie filling: 2 tablespoons
Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, hulled and quartered
Reduced-fat graham cracker crumbs: 6 tablespoons
Strawberry: 1, sliced for garnish

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 236.3
Fat Content: 1.3 g
Saturated Fat Content: 0.7 g
Cholesterol Content: 3.8 mg
Sodium Content: 40.7 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 55 g
Fiber Content: 1.5 g
Sugar Content: 1.3 g
Protein Content: 1 g

Servings:

This recipe yields 3 delightful servings of parfait.

Instructions:

Blend Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend together the lemon juice, fat-free cream cheese, and cherry pie filling using a hand stick blender until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms a creamy and tangy yogurt mixture that will serve as a base for the parfait.
Layer the Parfait: In each of the 3 parfait glasses, spoon 1/3 cup of the pie filling mixture. Follow this with a layer of approximately 2 1/2 tablespoons of the yogurt mixture.
Repeat Layers: Continue layering by adding another spoonful of pie filling followed by more of the yogurt mixture in each glass. This layering creates a visually appealing contrast between the different components of the parfait.
Add Strawberries: Evenly distribute the fresh strawberries into each parfait glass, creating a vibrant and fresh fruity layer. This not only adds color but also a burst of natural sweetness.
Top with Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle the reduced-fat graham cracker crumbs over the top of each parfait. The crumbs add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the creamy layers below.
Finish with Whipped Topping: For a finishing touch, add a dollop of whipped topping on each parfait. This makes the dessert even more indulgent and adds an element of lightness to the overall texture.
Garnish: Lastly, top each parfait with a strawberry fan. To create a strawberry fan, slice the strawberry thinly, but keep the slices connected at the top, and then gently fan them out. This simple garnish adds elegance and a pop of color.
Serve: Your Yogurt Fruit Parfait is now ready to be enjoyed. Bon appétit!

Tips and Variations:

1. Fruit Options:**

Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries can be fantastic alternatives or additions to the strawberries.
You can also consider using fresh peaches or mangoes for a tropical twist.

2. Yogurt Alternatives:**

For a richer texture, you can substitute the fat-free cream cheese with full-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt, ensuring they are thick enough to hold the layers together.

3. Sweetness Adjustments:**

If you prefer a sweeter parfait, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the yogurt mixture.
Adjust the sweetness by choosing different pie fillings, such as blueberry or apple pie filling, depending on your taste preferences.

4. Texture Variations:**

Add some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, between the layers for an added crunch and extra protein.
A sprinkle of granola can also add texture and enhance the overall flavor profile.

5. Presentation Enhancements:**

Serve the parfaits in clear glasses or mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers.
You can add a sprig of mint or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra touch of elegance.

6. Serving Suggestions:**

These parfaits make a delightful breakfast or snack option, especially during the warmer months when fresh fruits are at their peak.
They are also perfect for a light dessert after a heavy meal, offering a refreshing and satisfying end to your dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage:

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the components of the parfait in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the parfaits just before serving to ensure the graham cracker crumbs remain crunchy.
Storage: If you have any leftovers, store the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the longer they sit, the softer the graham cracker crumbs may become due to the moisture from the yogurt and fruits.

Health Benefits:

This Yogurt Fruit Parfait is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also comes with several health benefits:

**1. Low in Fat: With only 1.3 grams of fat per serving, this parfait is a light and guilt-free option that fits well into a balanced diet.

**2. Rich in Carbohydrates: The high carbohydrate content, primarily from the fruits and graham cracker crumbs, provides a quick energy boost, making this parfait an excellent choice for a mid-morning or afternoon snack.

**3. Protein Content: Although relatively low in protein, you can boost this by adding a scoop of protein powder to the yogurt mixture or incorporating Greek yogurt, which is higher in protein.

**4. Fiber-Rich: The parfait contains 1.5 grams of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

**5. Vitamins and Antioxidants: Fresh strawberries and other fruits you might use are packed with vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Culinary Background:

Parfaits have a rich history and have evolved over time from their origins in French cuisine. Traditionally, a parfait was a frozen dessert made from a base of egg yolks, sugar, and cream, often flavored with various syrups. Over the years, the concept has been adapted into a variety of styles, including the layered yogurt parfait we know today. This modern interpretation emphasizes a balance between health and indulgence, combining nutrient-rich ingredients like yogurt and fresh fruits with a hint of sweetness from components like pie filling and graham cracker crumbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Yogurt Fruit Parfait stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor profile. It’s a recipe that requires minimal preparation and ingredients, making it accessible even for those with a busy lifestyle. The layering process is straightforward yet yields a visually stunning dessert that can easily impress guests or simply provide a delightful treat for yourself. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements ensures a satisfying experience with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a light dessert, this parfait is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy crafting and savoring this Yogurt Fruit Parfait, and let each layer of flavor bring a smile to your face!