Save My kitchen smelled like pure autumn comfort when I first experimented with this parfait. I had leftover pumpkin purée from a failed baking attempt and decided to layer it with yogurt for breakfast. The combination was so stunning that I started making it intentionally, sometimes even for dessert.
I brought these to a brunch gathering last November, and my friend Sarah actually asked for the recipe before she even finished her first spoonful. Something about the layers makes people feel like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin purée: Use the unsweetened canned version or roast your own sugar pumpkin and purée it fresh
- Maple syrup: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the earthy pumpkin without overpowering it
- Ground cinnamon: The warm backbone spice that makes everything taste like autumn
- Greek yogurt: Provides protein and tangy creaminess to balance the sweet pumpkin layer
- Granola: Adds essential texture contrast and keeps things interesting with every spoonful
Instructions
- Blend the pumpkin spices:
- Combine the pumpkin purée with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and fragrant.
- Sweeten the yogurt:
- Whisk the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup if you want extra sweetness.
- Build the first layer:
- Spoon half the pumpkin mixture into the bottom of two small jars or glasses.
- Add the creamy layer:
- Spread about one quarter cup of yogurt over the pumpkin in each jar.
- Sprinkle on crunch:
- Scatter granola and chopped nuts over the yogurt layer for texture.
- Repeat the pattern:
- Layer the remaining pumpkin, yogurt, and granola until you reach the top of each jar.
- Finish with flair:
- Top with a final dollop of yogurt, extra granola, cinnamon, and pumpkin seeds.
Save This became my go-to meal prep breakfast during a particularly chaotic work season. I would make five jars on Sunday and grab one each morning, feeling like I was treating myself even when I was rushing out the door.
Make It Your Way
Swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and maple syrup to keep this entirely plant-based. The texture changes slightly but the spiced pumpkin flavor carries everything beautifully.
Dessert Mode
Replace the granola with crushed ginger snaps or graham crackers for something that feels more like a layered cheesecake. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top transforms it into something outright decadent.
Serving Ideas
These parfaits work for breakfast, snack time, or even a light dessert at autumn gatherings. They pair wonderfully with hot chai or spiced apple cider.
- Use clear glass jars so the layers are visible
- Wait to add the final granola sprinkle until just before serving
- Set up a parfait bar at your next brunch and let guests build their own
Save Hope these parfaits bring a little cozy autumn energy into your kitchen, no matter the season.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should I prepare the pumpkin layer?
Mix pumpkin purée with maple syrup, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt until well combined for a spiced and flavorful pumpkin base.
- → Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
You can use vanilla yogurt for a sweeter taste or coconut yogurt for a vegan alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What nuts complement this parfait best?
Chopped pecans or walnuts add a pleasant crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with the spices and creamy layers.
- → How do I keep the granola crunchy?
Serve immediately after assembling to maintain granola's crunch, or refrigerate up to 2 hours knowing it will soften slightly.
- → Are there any suggested beverage pairings?
Enjoy this parfait with chai tea or spiced cider to enhance its warm, autumnal flavors.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
By choosing gluten-free granola and dairy-free yogurt, this layered treat can fit vegan and gluten-free preferences comfortably.