Save It A festive brunch parfait bar featuring layers of creamy yogurt, spiced Christmas pudding, fruit compotes, and crunchy toppings—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This parfait is a holiday favorite in my family as it brings everyone together to customize their own sweet treat.
Ingredients
- Parfait Base: 500 g thick Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative), 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Christmas Pudding Layer: 250 g Christmas pudding (store-bought or homemade), crumbled
- Fruit Compote: 200 g mixed berries (fresh or frozen), 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Toppings: 100 g granola, 50 g toasted nuts (such as pecans or almonds) chopped, 50 g dried cranberries or raisins, 1 apple diced, 1 orange segmented, 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit compote:
- In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 57 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries soften and the mixture thickens. Let cool to room temperature.
- Mix yogurt base:
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with vanilla extract and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
- Set up parfait bar:
- Arrange the yogurt, crumbled Christmas pudding, cooled fruit compote, and all toppings in separate bowls.
- Assemble parfaits:
- Layer yogurt, Christmas pudding, and fruit compote in glasses or jars. Top with a selection of granola, nuts, dried fruit, apple, orange, pomegranate seeds, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and fresh mint.
- Serve:
- Let guests build their own parfaits according to their preferences.
Save It This parfait bar sparks joyful family moments as everyone customizes their own perfect holiday treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this parfait bar at holiday brunches or festive gatherings for an interactive and delicious dessert option.
Storage Tips
Prepare components in advance and refrigerate separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Variations
Try swapping the fruit compote with spiced apple or plum for a different seasonal flavor.
Save It A perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy makes this parfait a memorable holiday treat for all ages.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of yogurt is best for this parfait?
A thick Greek yogurt works best for creaminess and structure, but dairy-free alternatives can be used for lactose intolerance or vegan options.
- → Can I prepare the fruit compote in advance?
Yes, cooking the berry compote ahead and letting it cool makes assembling the parfait quicker and helps intensify the flavors.
- → Are there suitable substitutes for Christmas pudding?
Gingerbread or fruitcake can be used as flavorful alternatives that complement the yogurt and fruit layers well.
- → How can I make this parfait gluten-free?
Use gluten-free granola and ensure the pudding substitute is gluten-free; many store-bought options include allergens, so check labels carefully.
- → What toppings add the best texture contrast?
Crunchy granola, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, and fresh fruit pieces provide a satisfying mix of textures.