Cherry-Coded Sunrise Parfait (Print Version)

Sweet cherries, creamy yogurt, and crisp cocoa granola combine for a vibrant layered treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

# Components:

→ Fruit Compote

01 - 2 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries, halved
02 - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
03 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
04 - 1 orange, peeled and segmented

→ Creamy Layer

05 - 2 cups plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cocoa Granola Crunch

07 - 1 cup rolled oats
08 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
09 - 1/3 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
10 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
11 - 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Optional Garnish

13 - Fresh mint leaves
14 - Dark chocolate shavings

# Directions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine the cherries, honey, and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to macerate for 10 minutes. Gently incorporate the orange segments just before the layering process.
02 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate mixing bowl, toss the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chopped nuts, and salt with the melted coconut oil and maple syrup until all components are evenly coated. Spread this mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is crisp. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
03 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract until a smooth, uniform consistency is achieved.
04 - Select four clear glasses or jars for assembly. Systematically layer the ingredients starting with a base of the creamy yogurt mixture, followed by a portion of the cherry-orange compote, and then a scattering of the cocoa granola crunch. Repeat these layers, ensuring the final layer is the cocoa granola crunch.
05 - If desired, adorn the parfaits with fresh mint leaves and dark chocolate shavings. Serve immediately to best enjoy the textures.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 25 minutes
  • Perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings
  • Customizable to your dietary preferences
  • Impressive presentation with minimal effort
  • Balanced nutrition to start your day
02 -
  • Perfect for meal prep when components are stored separately
  • Contains probiotics from yogurt for gut health
  • Provides balanced macronutrients with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs
  • Naturally sweetened with no refined sugar
03 -
  • Allow the granola to cool completely before storing to maintain maximum crispness. Even slight warmth can create condensation and softening.
  • For special occasions, layer the parfait in champagne flutes for an elegant presentation that showcases the vibrant colors.
  • If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid before macerating to prevent watery parfaits.