Delightful Fruity Yogurt Parfait
Indulge in the layers of creamy yogurt and ricotta cheese combined with fresh fruits that create a delightful blend of flavors and textures in this Fruity Yogurt Parfait. This wholesome dessert is perfect for any occasion – be it a refreshing summer treat, a nutritious breakfast option, or a light dessert to impress your guests. The mix of strawberries, peaches, bananas, and raspberries, paired with crunchy toasted almonds, not only enhances taste but also makes for a visually stunning presentation. Enjoy this guilt-free dessert that is rich in protein and bursting with vitamins!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Plain yogurt
1 quart (Drained)
Ricotta cheese
1 cup (Smooth)
Granulated sugar
1/4 cup (For mixing with ricotta)
Granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (For layering)
Almond extract or vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (For flavoring)
Mixed fruit
4 cups (Sliced strawberries, peaches, bananas, raspberries)
Chopped toasted almonds
4 teaspoons (For topping)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the yogurt: Place the plain yogurt into a cheesecloth or a paper towel-lined sieve set over a bowl, allowing it to drain at room temperature for about 1 hour. This process will thicken the yogurt, giving your parfait a creamier texture.
2
In a food processor, blend the ricotta cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is very smooth and creamy. Once blended, transfer it to a medium mixing bowl.
3
Add the drained yogurt to the ricotta mixture along with the almond extract (or vanilla extract). Gently stir to combine everything until smooth and creamy.
4
Now, it's time to layer your parfaits: Spoon one third of the creamy yogurt mixture into the bottom of each of the six parfait glasses.
5
Next, evenly divide half of the mixed fruit among the glasses, layering it on top of the yogurt mixture.
6
Follow up with another layer of yogurt, approximately one-third of what is left, spreading it gently over the fruit.
7
Top this layer with the remaining mixed fruit, distributing it evenly across all parfaits.
8
Finally, add the last portion of the yogurt mixture on top, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
9
For the finishing touch, sprinkle the chopped toasted almonds on top of each parfait for added texture and flavor.
10
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short while before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Delightful Fruity Yogurt Parfait?
It is a wholesome layered dessert or breakfast made with thickened plain yogurt, sweetened ricotta cheese, fresh fruits, and crunchy toasted almonds.
What fruits are used in this recipe?
The recipe features a mix of sliced strawberries, peaches, bananas, and raspberries.
How do I thicken the yogurt for the parfait?
Place 1 quart of plain yogurt into a cheesecloth or paper towel-lined sieve over a bowl and let it drain at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
What kind of cheese is included in the mixture?
This recipe uses 1 cup of ricotta cheese, which is blended until smooth with sugar.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of almond extract?
Yes, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of either almond extract or vanilla extract to flavor the yogurt mixture.
How much sugar is needed for the ricotta mixture?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to be blended with the ricotta cheese.
What is the purpose of draining the yogurt?
Draining the yogurt removes excess moisture, giving the parfait a much creamier and thicker texture.
How should I prepare the almonds?
The almonds should be chopped and toasted before being sprinkled on top of the parfaits.
How many layers of fruit are in each glass?
There are two distinct layers of mixed fruit divided by layers of the creamy yogurt and ricotta mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?
Yes, it is considered a nutritious breakfast option as well as a light dessert.
How long should I blend the ricotta and sugar?
Blend them in a food processor for about 1 minute or until the mixture is very smooth and creamy.
Can I serve the parfaits immediately?
Yes, you can serve them immediately after assembly or refrigerate them for a short while.
What is the total amount of fruit required?
The recipe requires 4 cups of mixed fruit.
How do I assemble the layers?
Layer one-third of the yogurt mixture, then half the fruit, another third of yogurt, the remaining fruit, and finally the rest of the yogurt.
How many parfait glasses does this recipe fill?
The instructions are designed to fill six parfait glasses.
What is the best way to smooth the top layer?
You can use the back of a spoon to gently smooth out the final portion of the yogurt mixture.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a guilt-free, protein-rich dessert that is bursting with vitamins.
What equipment is needed for the ricotta mixture?
A food processor is recommended to achieve a very smooth and creamy consistency for the ricotta and sugar.
Can I use different types of nuts?
While the recipe specifies toasted almonds, you could substitute other nuts if preferred, though it will change the flavor profile.
What is the first step in assembling the parfait?
The first step of assembly is spooning one third of the creamy yogurt mixture into the bottom of each glass.
Is the sugar added to the fruit?
The recipe lists sugar for mixing with ricotta and for layering, but does not explicitly state to macerate the fruit in it.
What makes this a good summer treat?
Its use of fresh seasonal fruits like peaches and strawberries makes it refreshing and light for warm weather.
Can I use Greek yogurt?
While the recipe calls for plain yogurt that you drain yourself, Greek yogurt is already strained and could serve as a time-saving substitute.
How much almond extract is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract.
What texture should the ricotta have?
The ricotta should be blended until it is very smooth and creamy before being mixed with the yogurt.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
The recipe is tagged as dessert, healthy, yogurt parfait, fruit, easy recipe, and summer treat.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, the fresh fruits and almonds provide natural fiber.
Can I prepare the yogurt-ricotta mix in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the base mixture ahead of time, but it is best to assemble the layers shortly before serving to keep the fruit fresh.
What is the final topping for the parfait?
The final touch is 4 teaspoons of chopped toasted almonds sprinkled over the six parfaits.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe with simple layering and blending steps.