Here’s a deliciously easy breakfast and brunch idea: the Yogurt Parfait! This layered cup looks fancy but takes minutes to make.

Looking for an easy breakfast or brunch idea? Try this Berry & Yogurt Parfait! Layer Greek yogurt, berries and peanut butter granola in a glass, and looks loads fancier than it actually is. We’ve been making these for years, but here’s our latest favorite spin. It’s like an elevated spin on the MacDonald’s version that tastes more pure and real (and less sugary). Try this Greek yogurt parfait for a fancy brunch, or a quick make-ahead breakfast!

Ingredients in this yogurt parfait

This yogurt parfait is quick and easy to layer up: ideal for simple breakfasts. But it looks so stunning, it’s great for brunches too! Here’s what you’ll need for the ingredients:

• Peanut Butter Granola, Crispy Homemade Granola, or other purchased granola (as high quality as you can find)
• Greek yogurt or plain yogurt
• Maple syrup
• Vanilla
• Cinnamon
• Frozen strawberries
• Fresh berries: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, etc

Why use frozen berries?

Why use frozen strawberries here? Can you use all fresh berries, or all frozen berries? Here’s what to know:

• Frozen berries help to make a sauce. Defrosting the frozen berries makes a nice fruity sauce to mix with maple syrup to flavor the berries. Again, it’s got a vibe of that McDonald’s fruit and yogurt parfait.
• Frozen are also cheaper. It’s a little cheaper than buying 2 cups of fresh berries.
• But you can use all fresh berries or all frozen! Whatever works for you! You can also make a fruit compote with frozen berries: see below.

Greek yogurt vs plain yogurt

Our favorite yogurt to use in general is Greek yogurt, but you can use plain yogurt too! Here are a few notes on making a Greek yogurt parfait:

• Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, with a delicious tang. The flavor really is superior to plain yogurt.
• Greek yogurt has lots of health benefits: it’s high in protein and can aid in gut health.
• Substitute plain yogurt if you like. Then follow the recipe below to add maple syrup and cinnamon to flavor it.

Variations on a yogurt parfait

You can use many different options for the fruit in this yogurt parfait! We love it with berries, but the sky’s the limit here. Here a few ideas for mixing it up:

Granola to use

The granola in these yogurt parfaits is important. Because it’s such a simple recipe, it’s important to use the best quality granola you can find. If you purchase the granola, find a high quality, artisan-style granola. Or make it homemade! Here’s what to know:

Make ahead instructions for a yogurt parfait

Want to make yogurt parfaits as a make-ahead breakfast? It’s a great option for making ahead, but there’s one important thing to know:

• You can make yogurt parfaits ahead up to 4 days in advance.
• The granola becomes soggy after a few hours. If you’re making for make ahead breakfasts, layer the parfait without the granola. Then add it right before serving!

More easy breakfast recipes

Want to start the day on the right foot? Here are our top easy breakfast recipes: