Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry Compote are a festive and delicious way to start your day or serve as a light dessert during the holiday season. Layered with creamy yogurt, homemade cranberry compote, and granola, these parfaits are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. They are perfect for holiday brunches or as a refreshing treat!

Ingredients List

For the Cranberry Compote

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Parfaits

• 4 cups yogurt (Greek or regular, plain or flavored)
• 2 cups granola (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Preparing Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry Compote takes about 10 minutes for the parfait assembly and 15-20 minutes to make the cranberry compote, totaling approximately 30-40 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Compote

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Cook: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. If desired, add vanilla extract and cinnamon during the last few minutes of cooking.
3. Cool: Remove from heat and let the compote cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.

Step 2: Assemble the Parfaits

1. Layer Ingredients: In clear glasses or bowls, start by adding a layer of yogurt at the bottom.
2. Add Granola: Next, add a layer of granola on top of the yogurt.
3. Add Cranberry Compote: Spoon a layer of cranberry compote over the granola.
4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of yogurt and a dollop of compote on top.
5. Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a festive touch.

Step 3: Serve

1. Chill (Optional): You can serve the parfaits immediately or refrigerate them for up to 1 hour before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy this delightful holiday treat!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry Compote (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Protein	10g
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Use Different Fruits: Substitute the cranberry compote with other fruits like raspberry, blueberry, or peach for variety.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) for added crunch and nutrition.
• Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sweetness of the yogurt by using flavored yogurt or adding honey or maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry Compote pair well with:

• A side of fresh fruit or a light salad.
• A warm beverage such as spiced cider, coffee, or tea for a cozy holiday experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Compote: Keep an eye on the cranberries to prevent them from becoming too mushy; you want some texture.
2. Using Too Much Sugar: Taste the compote as it cooks and adjust the sweetness to your preference.
3. Assembling Too Early: If making ahead, layer the parfaits no more than an hour before serving to prevent the granola from becoming soggy.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cranberry compote can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The parfaits are best enjoyed fresh but can be assembled a few hours in advance.

Conclusion

In just about 30-40 minutes, you can create Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry Compote, a delightful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its vibrant colors and layers of flavor, this parfait is sure to impress your guests and brighten up any festive table!

FAQs

Can I make the cranberry compote ahead of time?

Yes! The cranberry compote can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the parfaits.

Can I use non-dairy yogurt?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any non-dairy yogurt alternative, such as almond, coconut, or soy yogurt.

What can I substitute for granola?

You can use crushed nuts, seeds, or even crushed cookies for a different texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the parfaits?

It’s not recommended to freeze assembled parfaits, as the yogurt and granola may not maintain their texture. However, you can freeze the cranberry compote separately.