Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than parfait cups! These colorful treats are layers of creamy yogurt, fresh fruit, granola, and more. Not only are they visually appealing, but they’re also incredibly versatile – whether you’re serving them at a brunch, a birthday party, or just as a sweet treat after dinner.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering parfait cups recipes that cater to every taste and occasion. From classic strawberry yogurt parfaits to decadent chocolate peanut butter treats, there’s something for everyone. So grab your favorite ingredients and get ready to layer up some fun!
Classic Strawberry Yogurt Parfait Cups
A sweet and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a simple yet impressive way to enjoy the flavors of strawberries and yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 small glasses or parfait cups
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Cut the strawberries into slices or chunks, depending on your desired texture.
3. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the yogurt mixture into each parfait cup.
4. Add 1-2 strawberry slices on top of the yogurt layer.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 one more time, ending with a layer of yogurt on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in no time.
Blueberry Granola Parfait Cups
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these sweet and satisfying Blueberry Granola Parfait Cups! Crunchy granola, juicy blueberries, and creamy yogurt come together in a delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Mix oats and granola in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine honey and maple syrup. Pour over oat mixture and stir until coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Allow the granola to cool completely. Layer it with yogurt, blueberries, and a pinch of salt in parfait cups. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Chocolate Mousse Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these decadent chocolate mousse parfait cups. Layers of creamy mousse, crunchy cookies, and sweet fruit come together for a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 12-16 wafers (such as ladyfingers or cookies)
– Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments.
2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold egg mixture into whipped cream until combined.
5. Melt chocolate and fold into egg-cream mixture until smooth.
6. Spoon mousse into parfait cups or small glasses.
7. Top with wafers, fresh fruit, and a dollop of whipped cream.
8. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach and Honey Yogurt Parfait Cups
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this refreshing Peach and Honey Yogurt Parfait Cups recipe, perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and vanilla extract.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a parfait cup or glass.
3. Top with diced peach, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with granola and almonds.
4. Repeat step 2-3 to create another layer.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Matcha Green Tea Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these refreshing Matcha Green Tea Parfait Cups! A perfect blend of sweet and savory, these cups are sure to delight anyone with a love for green tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 12-16 small glass cups or ramekins
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together matcha powder and sugar until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the matcha mixture until smooth.
4. Spoon 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt into each glass cup.
5. Top with 1/4 cup of mixed berries and 1 tablespoon of matcha whipped cream.
6. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (whipping the cream)
Banana Nutella Parfait Cups
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of creamy Nutella, ripe bananas, and crunchy cookies. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe bananas
– 1 cup Nutella
– 12-16 cookie cups (such as Nilla wafers or vanilla sandwich cookies)
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the bananas into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, spread about 1 tablespoon of Nutella on the bottom of each cookie cup.
3. Add 1-2 banana pieces on top of the Nutella layer.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of Nutella on top.
5. Top with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (assemble just before serving)
Raspberry Cheesecake Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these adorable Raspberry Cheesecake Parfait Cups! Layers of creamy cheesecake, sweet raspberries, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs come together in a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of small cups or ramekins.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture into cooled graham cracker cups. Smooth tops.
6. Top with fresh raspberries. If desired, top with whipped cream.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tropical Mango Coconut Parfait Cups
A refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of coconut and crunchy granola, all layered in a cup.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and vanilla extract.
2. Layer the parfait cups by starting with the granola, then the mango, followed by the Greek yogurt mixture (honey-vanilla), and finally the shredded coconut.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in under 5 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Parfait Cups
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these creamy, crunchy, and utterly autumnal Pumpkin Spice Parfait Cups! This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for a fall gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, drained and chopped
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the pumpkin mixture into small cups or glasses.
3. Top with chopped pumpkin and granola.
4. Repeat layers one more time, finishing with whipped cream if desired.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to go straight from the fridge.
Vanilla Bean and Berry Parfait Cups
A sweet and refreshing treat that’s perfect for a light dessert or snack. Layers of creamy vanilla bean pudding, fresh berries, and crunchy granola create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup granola
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add the split vanilla bean. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the pudding mixture into a bowl, discarding the vanilla bean. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. To assemble the parfait cups, layer the chilled pudding, fresh berries, and granola in small cups or glasses. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with the pudding on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (includes chilling time)
Caramel Apple Parfait Cups
Elevate your snack game with these delicious Caramel Apple Parfait Cups! Layers of crunchy granola, sweet caramel, and crisp apples create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup crushed granola
– 1/2 cup diced fresh apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of a parfait cup or a tall clear glass.
3. Top with about 1/4 cup of crushed granola.
4. Add a layer of diced apple on top of the granola.
5. Drizzle with caramel sauce, using about 2 tablespoons per cup.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 one more time, ending with a layer of yogurt mixture.
7. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of granola.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble the parfait cups just before serving.
Lemon Curd and Shortbread Parfait Cups
These individual parfait cups combine the tangy sweetness of lemon curd with the crumbly richness of shortbread, perfect for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
For the Shortbread:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons or 85g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (65g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon curd ingredients until smooth. Pour into prepared muffin cups and bake for 15-18 minutes or until set.
3. Meanwhile, prepare shortbread by creaming butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until combined.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place shortbread pieces on top of cooled lemon curd, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes (lemon curd), 8-10 minutes (shortbread)
Chocolate Peanut Butter Parfait Cups
Elevate your snack game with these decadent chocolate peanut butter parfait cups, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup granola or crushed peanuts
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream and unsalted butter until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Layer ingredients in small cups: whipped cream, peanut butter mixture, melted chocolate, and granola or crushed peanuts.
5. Chill parfait cups in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time), 2 hours (chilling time)
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Parfait Cups!
Cherry Almond Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these elegant and delicious Cherry Almond Parfait Cups. Layers of fresh cherries, crunchy almonds, and creamy yogurt create a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granola or crushed almonds
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 small cups or glasses (6 oz each)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cherries and honey until combined.
2. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cherry mixture into the bottom of each cup.
3. Top with a layer of yogurt, followed by a sprinkle of granola or crushed almonds.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 two more times, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
5. Drizzle with vanilla extract and garnish with additional cherries, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and chill before serving.
Pistachio and Rosewater Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these elegant Pistachio and Rosewater Parfait Cups, perfect for special occasions or a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pistachio paste
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 12-14 small cups or ramekins
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream and pistachio paste until smooth.
2. Add rosewater and whisk until combined.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cream mixture into each cup.
4. Top with a layer of Greek yogurt (about 1-2 tablespoons).
5. Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar over the yogurt.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a dollop of yogurt on top.
7. Garnish with chopped pistachios.
Cooking Time: None! These parfaits are best served chilled, so refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Mixed Berry Chia Seed Parfait Cups
A healthy and delicious breakfast or snack option that combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the nutty flavor of chia seeds, all wrapped up in a convenient cup.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon granola
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the oats and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt and honey. Stir until smooth.
3. Spoon half of the oat-chia mixture into the bottom of a parfait cup or small glass.
4. Top with the yogurt-honey mixture, followed by half of the mixed berries.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of granola on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and refrigerate.
Tiramisu-Inspired Parfait Cups
Tiramisu-Inspired Parfait Cups: A Creative Twist on the Classic Italian Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized Tiramisu-inspired parfait cups, featuring layers of creamy mascarpone, rich coffee syrup, and crunchy ladyfingers. Perfect for parties or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. To assemble the parfaits, place a soaked ladyfinger in the bottom of a small cup or glass. Top with a layer of mascarpone mixture, followed by another ladyfinger.
4. Repeat step 3 two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
5. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Cooking Time: None required!
Enjoy your Tiramisu-inspired Parfait Cups!
Oreo Cookies and Cream Parfait Cups
Elevate your dessert game with this easy-to-make parfait cups recipe, featuring Oreo cookies and cream as the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 Oreo cookies, crushed
– 1 (8 oz) container of heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream and additional Oreo crumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the pudding mix, milk, and sugar. Stir until smooth.
3. Layer the crushed Oreos, pudding mixture, and whipped cream in small cups or glasses.
4. Top with fresh fruit of your choice.
5. If desired, add an extra dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with additional Oreo crumbs.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake treat that’s ready to serve in just 10-15 minutes.
Summary
Discover the versatility of parfait cups with these 18 delicious recipes for every occasion! From classic strawberry yogurt to tropical mango coconut, and from banana nutella to tiramisu-inspired, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with flavors like peach and honey, blueberry granola, or chocolate peanut butter. Impress your guests at brunch, dinner, or a party with unique combinations like caramel apple, lemon curd and shortbread, or pistachio and rosewater. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet treats or savory delights, these parfait cups are sure to satisfy.
