Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits Recipe
Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits
These parfaits are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The apples are cooked down with cinnamon and a touch of sweetness, creating a warm, spiced compote that complements the cool yogurt and crunchy granola. I love how easy these parfaits are to make, and they’re perfect for meal prep—just assemble them in jars and store in the fridge for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and crunchy granola makes these parfaits both satisfying and healthy. Plus, they’re highly customizable—you can switch up the fruit or use different flavors of yogurt to keep things interesting.
Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits
These parfaits are a great way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie in a healthy, convenient package. The warm cinnamon apples bring out the best of fall flavors, while the creamy yogurt adds a nice balance of tanginess, and the granola provides a satisfying crunch. I also love that they’re portable and easy to make ahead for busy mornings or snack times.
They’re versatile, too! You can use any type of granola you like, and swap out the yogurt for Greek, plant-based, or flavored varieties to suit your preferences. These parfaits also make a great dessert that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy.
Main Ingredients in Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits
- Apples: Fresh apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, work best for the compote. They add natural sweetness and a lovely texture.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice enhances the flavor of the apples and brings a comforting fall flavor to the parfaits.
- Granola: Use your favorite granola for crunch. A cinnamon-flavored or nutty granola works perfectly to complement the apples.
- Yogurt: You can use Greek yogurt, plain yogurt, or flavored yogurt. It adds creaminess and a nice contrast to the sweet apples and crunchy granola.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of honey or maple syrup sweetens the apple compote, balancing the tartness of the apples.
- Vanilla Extract: This adds a hint of warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the parfait.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits
Here’s how to make these delicious, wholesome parfaits:
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks.
- Cook the Apple Compote: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Yogurt: In a small bowl, stir the vanilla extract into the yogurt. If you prefer a sweeter yogurt, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Layer the Parfaits: In individual glasses or jars, start by adding a layer of yogurt. Top with a spoonful of the apple compote, followed by a sprinkle of granola. Repeat the layers until you’ve filled the glasses or jars.
- Serve or Store: Serve the parfaits immediately or store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If preparing in advance, add the granola just before serving to keep it crunchy.
Tips for Making the Best Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits
- Use Fresh, Firm Apples: Fresh apples that hold their shape when cooked work best. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great choices for the right balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Add the Granola Just Before Serving: If you’re making the parfaits in advance, wait to add the granola until just before eating to keep it from getting soggy.
- Customize with Different Yogurts: You can use plain, Greek, or flavored yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use coconut or almond milk yogurt.
How to Store and Serve
These parfaits can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings. If you’re planning to store them, keep the granola separate until just before serving to maintain its crunch.
You can serve these parfaits as a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or even as a light dessert. They’re great on their own, or you can drizzle a little extra honey or maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
Apple Cinnamon Granola Parfaits Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, peeled and chopped
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups Greek yogurt or your preferred yogurt
- 1 ½ cups granola
- Optional: extra honey or maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Apple Compote: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped apples, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir occasionally and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and let the compote cool slightly.
- Prepare the Yogurt: In a small bowl, stir the vanilla extract into the yogurt. If desired, add a little extra honey or maple syrup to sweeten the yogurt.
- Layer the Parfaits: In individual glasses or jars, layer the yogurt, apple compote, and granola. Start with a layer of yogurt, followed by apples, and then granola. Repeat until you’ve filled the containers, ending with a sprinkle of granola on top.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add granola just before serving to keep it crunchy.
