Berry & Acai Delight Parfait

 

Berry & Acai Delight Parfait

This vibrant and refreshing dessert parfait is a perfect treat for Lola, layering creamy yogurt with her favorite fresh berries, bananas, and a hint of acai, all without any chocolate or cream cheese!

Yields: 2 servings 

Prep time: 15 minutes 

Chill time: 15 minutes (optional)

Equipment:

  • 2 tall glasses or parfait dishes

  • Small bowl

  • Blender (optional, if using acai puree)

  • Knife

  • Cutting board

  • Measuring cups

  • Liquid measuring cup

  • Measuring spoons

  • Whisk

  • Spoon

  • Refrigerator

Ingredients:

For the Creamy Vanilla Layer:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (ensure vegetarian, or use plain non-dairy yogurt like coconut or oat-based)

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to taste)

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Fruit Layers:

  • 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (Lola likes blueberries)

  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (Lola likes strawberries)

  • 1/4 cup fresh blackberries (Lola likes blackberries)

  • 1 medium banana, sliced (Lola likes bananas)

  • 1 (3.5 ounce) unsweetened frozen acai packet (optional, if making an acai layer)

  • 2 tablespoons plant-based milk or apple juice (if blending acai)

For the Crunch & Topping:

  • 1/2 cup granola (ensure vegetarian)

  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Layers:

Step 1.) In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt), maple syrup (or agave nectar), and vanilla extract. Whisk with a whisk until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 2.) Using a knife and cutting board, slice the fresh strawberries and banana.

Step 3.) If making an acai layer: Place the unsweetened frozen acai packet into a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of plant-based milk or apple juice. Blend until smooth and thick. You may need to use a spatula to push down ingredients.

Assembling the Parfaits:

Step 4.) In each of your 2 tall glasses or parfait dishes, begin layering the ingredients.

Step 5.) Start with a layer of granola (about 2 tablespoons per glass).

Step 6.) Next, add a layer of the creamy vanilla yogurt mixture (about 1/4 cup per glass).

Step 7.) Follow with a layer of mixed fresh berries and sliced bananas (about 1/4 cup of fruit per glass).

Step 8.) If using, add a layer of the blended acai puree (about 1/4 cup per glass).

Step 9.) Repeat the layers: granola, creamy yogurt, mixed fruits, and acai (if using), until you reach the top of the glass. You should aim for at least two full sets of layers.

Step 10.) Finish the top with a final sprinkle of granola and fresh berries, and optionally, shredded coconut.

Chilling and Serving:

Step 11.) For best results, place the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional if you want to serve immediately.

Step 12.) Serve chilled with a spoon and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

  • For an extra burst of freshness, add a few sprigs of fresh mint on top as a garnish.

  • You can customize the fruit layers based on seasonal availability and Lola's preferences from her likes (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, grapes, bananas, pineapple).

  • If preparing ahead of time, hold off on adding the granola until just before serving to keep it crunchy.

  • Ensure the yogurt you choose is plain and unsweetened, as you're adding your own sweetener, and check that it contains no cream cheese.

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