So, you know how sometimes we just want something that feels a little fresh but also doesn’t take forever to put together, right? That’s exactly why I like these yogurt parfait cups.
They are basically layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet fruit, and the whole thing comes together in just a few minutes without much effort.
It’s one of those recipes that works for different times of the day, because you can have it as a quick breakfast when you’re rushing, or you can keep it ready for a light afternoon snack, and honestly it even feels nice as a simple dessert after dinner.
It’s easy, it’s flexible, and it’s something that always feels a little comforting.
What is Yogurt Parfait Cups?
A yogurt parfait is really just a simple layered dish made with yogurt, fruit, and something crunchy like granola or nuts. You usually see it served in a glass or jar so you can see all the layers, which makes it look nice too.
It’s not a fancy recipe at all, but it’s one of those things people enjoy because it feels light and fresh while still filling. Most of the time it’s eaten as a quick breakfast, but it also works well as a snack during the day or even as a healthier dessert option.
It’s flexible, easy to put together, and you can change it up depending on what fruit or yogurt you like.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to make: You don’t need much time at all, because these parfaits can be put together in just about five minutes, which makes them really convenient when you don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen.
Simple ingredients: Everything you need is very basic, like yogurt, granola, and fruit, so you don’t have to go searching for anything special, and you can usually find these things already in your fridge or pantry.
Easy to change up: You can switch the fruit or even the type of yogurt depending on what you like, so it feels flexible and you can make it different each time without much effort.
Beginner-friendly: There’s no cooking involved, and the steps are very straightforward, so even if someone doesn’t usually make recipes, they can still put this together without any trouble.
Great for busy days: Since it’s quick and can be stored ahead of time, it works really well for mornings when you’re rushing or for those times when you just want a snack ready to grab.

Ingredients Needed:
When you look at this recipe, you’ll notice that the ingredients are all very simple and familiar, and each one has its own role that helps the dish come together in the right way.
- Cornstarch – helps thicken the stew so it feels rich and smooth.
- Beef stew meat – gives the dish its hearty base and makes it filling and satisfying.
- Onion – adds flavor and a bit of sweetness once it cooks down.
- Garlic – brings depth and a nice aroma that blends with the other ingredients.
- Carrots – add color and a natural sweetness while also making the stew more balanced.
- Potatoes – make the stew thicker and give it that comforting texture.
- Celery – adds freshness and a little crunch that works well with the softer vegetables.
- Beef broth – creates the rich liquid that ties everything together.
- Tomato sauce – adds body and a mild tang that balances the flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce – gives a savory kick and makes the stew taste deeper.
- Herbs and seasoning – bring out flavor and keep the dish from tasting flat.
You’ll find the full ingredient list with exact quantities in the recipe card below.
Step-By-Step Instructions to Make Yogurt Parfait Cups:
Step 1: Yogurt Base Layer
Start by adding a layer of yogurt to the bottom of your glass or jar. Try to spread it evenly so it looks neat, because the layers are what make the parfait feel special. The yogurt should look smooth and creamy, and this base helps hold everything together.
Step 2: Crunchy Granola Layer
Next, sprinkle granola over the yogurt. You don’t need to press it down too much, just let it sit naturally so it keeps its crunch. This part adds texture, and when you scoop into it later, you’ll get that nice contrast between creamy and crunchy.
Step 3: Fresh Fruit Layer
Now add your fruit on top of the granola. You can mix different berries or use whatever fruit you like. Try to spread them out so the colors show through the glass, because that makes it look more inviting. The fruit should feel juicy and fresh, adding sweetness and brightness to the parfait.
Step 4: Honey Drizzle
After the fruit, drizzle a little honey over the top. It doesn’t need to cover everything, just enough to add a touch of sweetness. The honey will look glossy and give the parfait a nice finish. If you don’t want it too sweet, you can skip this step, but it does make the flavors come together nicely.
Step 5: Repeat and Finish
Keep layering yogurt, granola, fruit, and honey until your glass is full. Try to end with fruit and a drizzle of honey so it looks pretty on top. When you look at the finished parfait, you should see clear layers with creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and colorful fruit. It should feel fresh, light, and ready to eat.
Helpful Tips For The Best Results
Granola timing: If you plan to make the parfait ahead of time, it’s better to leave the granola out until you’re ready to eat, because otherwise it will soak up the yogurt and lose its crunch.
Fruit choice: Fresh fruit works best since frozen fruit can release extra water, which makes the layers soggy. If you do use frozen, just let it thaw fully and drain off any liquid.
Yogurt type: Greek yogurt is thicker and holds the layers nicely, but if you prefer something lighter, plain or flavored yogurt also works fine.
Sweetness control: Honey adds flavor, but you can swap it with maple syrup or skip it if you don’t want extra sugar.
Layering look: Try to spread each layer evenly so the parfait looks neat and colorful, which makes it more fun to eat.
Tasty Variations to Try:
- Apple pie style: Use diced apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon along with yogurt and granola for a cozy flavor.
- Peanut butter banana: Mix a spoon of peanut butter into the yogurt and add sliced bananas with granola or peanuts.
- Peach chia: Stir chia seeds into the yogurt, then layer with peaches, granola, and a drizzle of honey.
- Strawberry fields: Use strawberry yogurt with fresh strawberries and finish with a few mint or basil leaves.
- Tropical mix: Combine pineapple, mango, and shredded coconut with yogurt and granola for a bright, summery taste.
- Dairy-free option: Swap regular yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt if you want a non-dairy version.
Serving Suggestions:

1. Perfect for breakfast:
These parfaits are a great option when you want something quick in the morning, because they are filling but still light, and they give you a mix of protein, fruit, and crunch without much effort.
2. Serve with eggs:
If you want to make it more complete, you can pair the parfait with boiled eggs or even a small omelet, since that adds extra protein and makes the meal last longer.
3. Snack during the day:
You can keep a jar ready in the fridge and grab it in the afternoon when you feel hungry, because it’s refreshing and not too heavy.
4. Pairs well with coffee or tea:
The creamy yogurt and sweet fruit taste nice alongside a warm drink, so it works well if you want something simple with your coffee or tea break.
5. Light dessert option:
If you don’t want a heavy dessert after dinner, serving a parfait is a nice way to end the meal, because it feels sweet but still healthy.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- How long it keeps: These parfaits usually stay fresh for about one to two days in the fridge, but the texture is best if you eat them sooner rather than later.
- Best storage method: Keep them in airtight jars or containers so the yogurt and fruit stay fresh, and always add the granola right before eating to avoid sogginess.
- Simple reheating advice: Since this is a cold dish, there’s no reheating needed, but if you want a warmer touch, you can slightly warm the fruit before layering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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Can I use a different yogurt?
Yes, you can swap Greek yogurt with plain, flavored, or even dairy-free options like almond or coconut yogurt, depending on what you prefer.
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Can these be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the yogurt and fruit layers a day or two in advance, but it’s better to add the granola right before eating so it doesn’t get soggy.
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Why does my granola turn soft?
Granola absorbs moisture from the yogurt if it sits too long, so keeping it separate until serving helps keep the crunch.
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Is this recipe healthy?
It’s generally healthy, but the nutrition depends on the type of yogurt and granola you choose, so lighter options will keep calories lower.
Yogurt Parfait Cups
Description
This yogurt parfait is a quick and simple layered dish made with creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy granola, and fresh fruit, finished with a drizzle of honey. It’s perfect for busy mornings, a light afternoon snack, or even a healthier dessert option. The recipe is flexible, easy to customize, and takes only a few minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spoon 1 cup of Greek yogurt into the bottom of each jar or glass, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.
- Add 1/4 cup granola over the yogurt in each jar, letting it sit naturally so it keeps its crunch.
- Top with about 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, peaches, blueberries, or any fruit you like), spreading them out for color and freshness.
- Drizzle with about 1 1/2 tablespoons honey over the fruit to add sweetness and shine.
- Repeat the layers again: add the remaining 1 cup yogurt, then another 1/4 cup granola, followed by the rest of the 1/2 cup berries, and finish with the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons honey on top.
- Serve immediately for best texture, or refrigerate without granola if making ahead.
Notes
- If preparing ahead, store yogurt and fruit layers in airtight jars and add granola just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Frozen berries can be used, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with almond, soy, or coconut yogurt.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
Serving Size 1 parfait (approx. 1 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup granola, 1/2 cup fruit, drizzle honey)
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 396kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7g11%
- Saturated Fat 1g5%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 84mg4%
- Potassium 442mg13%
- Total Carbohydrate 63g21%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 45g
- Protein 24g48%
- Vitamin A 36 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 252 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

