Pin Last spring, I grabbed a jar of cashew butter on a whim, unsure what I'd actually do with it. The next morning, still half asleep, I stirred a spoonful into my yogurt and was stunned by how creamy and satisfying it tasted. That small experiment turned into this parfait, a breakfast I now make whenever I want something indulgent but nourishing. It's become my go-to on busy mornings when I need fuel that feels like a treat.
I first made this for my sister when she stayed over after a late night. She's picky about breakfast, but she devoured the entire jar without a word, then asked me to write down what I'd done. Watching her scrape the bottom with her spoon, I realized this parfait had that rare quality of being both simple and special. It's the kind of thing that makes someone feel cared for without any fuss.
Ingredients
- Plain Greek yogurt: The thick, tangy base that holds everything together and delivers serious protein. Choose full-fat for extra creaminess or nonfat if you prefer it lighter.
- Cashew butter: This is what transforms the yogurt into something luxurious and smooth. Stir it well before using, as natural nut butters separate.
- Mixed fresh berries: I love using whatever looks best at the market, usually blueberries, raspberries, and halved strawberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Granola: Adds the satisfying crunch that makes each spoonful interesting. Look for a low-sugar variety or make your own if you have time.
- Chopped roasted cashews: A little extra texture on top reminds you what flavor you're tasting. Toasting them yourself intensifies the nuttiness.
- Honey or maple syrup: Completely optional, but a light drizzle ties all the flavors together if your berries are tart or your yogurt is plain.
Instructions
- Blend the base:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and cashew butter, stirring until the mixture is smooth and no streaks remain. The cashew butter should disappear into the yogurt, creating a pale, velvety cream.
- Start layering:
- Spoon a few generous dollops of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of two glasses or jars. Use clear containers if you have them so you can admire the layers.
- Add berries and granola:
- Scatter a handful of fresh berries over the yogurt, then sprinkle a layer of granola on top. Don't press down, just let the layers sit naturally so the granola stays crunchy.
- Repeat the layers:
- Continue alternating yogurt, berries, and granola until you've used everything up, finishing with a final layer of berries and a light sprinkle of granola. The top layer should look colorful and inviting.
- Garnish and sweeten:
- Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top if you like things a bit sweeter, then scatter the chopped roasted cashews for a finishing touch.
- Serve or chill:
- Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch, or cover and refrigerate for up to four hours if you want a cool, make-ahead breakfast.
Pin One Sunday, I packed these parfaits into mason jars and brought them to a brunch potluck. A friend who usually skips breakfast ate two and asked if I'd teach her how to make them. That moment reminded me how something this easy can still feel generous and thoughtful. It's not just yogurt in a jar, it's a little gesture that says you paid attention.
Swaps and Variations
If cashew butter isn't your thing, almond or peanut butter work just as well and bring their own personality to the parfait. I've also swapped in sliced peaches during summer or fresh cherries when they're in season, and both were incredible. For a vegan version, use a thick plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond and stick with maple syrup instead of honey.
Storage and Prep Tips
These parfaits hold up beautifully in the fridge for a few hours, making them perfect for meal prep or an easy grab-and-go breakfast. I like to assemble everything except the granola the night before, then add the crunchy topping right before I eat. If you're taking them on the road, pack the granola in a separate small container and sprinkle it on at the last minute.
Finishing Touches
The beauty of this parfait is in the little details that make it feel intentional. A drizzle of honey catches the light and adds a hint of floral sweetness. Chopped cashews on top echo the cashew butter inside and give you something to crunch on right away. Even a few mint leaves or a dusting of cinnamon can turn this into something that looks and tastes like you spent way more time than you did.
- Try adding a pinch of cacao nibs for a hint of chocolate bitterness that plays off the sweetness.
- Chia seeds stirred into the yogurt layer add extra fiber and a subtle texture.
- Use a mix of textures in your granola, like clusters and flakes, to keep every bite interesting.
Pin This parfait has become more than just breakfast for me, it's a small ritual that feels grounding no matter how hectic the morning gets. I hope it brings you the same quiet joy it's given me, one creamy, crunchy spoonful at a time.