Ambrosia Parfaits
A light, refreshing parfait featuring tropical fruits, toasted coconut, and crunchy Grape-Nuts, perfect for a quick snack or healthy dessert enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mandarin oranges, pineapple pieces, and sliced banana in a bowl.
- Mix toasted coconut with Grape-Nuts cereal in a separate small bowl.
- In two dessert glasses, layer fruit, coconut and cereal mixture, vanilla nonfat yogurt, then repeat the layers.
- Top each parfait with one mandarin orange segment.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh mint leaves as a garnish. You can substitute the vanilla nonfat yogurt with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. If you don't have Grape-Nuts cereal, granola or crushed nuts can work as a great alternative. Adjust the fruit based on seasonal availability for a fresh twist. This recipe is also perfect for making ahead for brunch or dessert.
Serving Suggestions
These ambrosia parfaits make a delightful dessert or a light breakfast option. Serve alongside a slice of Olive-Nut Bread for a balanced meal or pair with a refreshing beverage like iced tea. For a more festive touch, consider topping with whipped cream or additional toasted coconut. They are also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the layers separate if possible to maintain texture, as yogurt can make the cereal soggy. Do not freeze as the texture of the fruit and yogurt may change upon thawing. Enjoy cold, as reheating is not recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ambrosia Parfaits contains roughly 213 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different fruits in the parfait?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even kiwi. Just ensure that the fruits you choose complement each other well. Seasonal fruits can enhance the flavor and presentation. This flexibility allows you to customize the parfaits to suit your taste or based on what you have available.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this parfait vegan, substitute the vanilla nonfat yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Additionally, ensure that the Grape-Nuts cereal is vegan-friendly, as some cereals may contain honey. The recipe is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences while maintaining its deliciousness.
How can I make this parfait more decadent?
To elevate the richness of the parfait, consider adding a layer of chocolate or vanilla pudding between the yogurt and fruit layers. Drizzling some chocolate sauce on top before serving can also add a delightful touch. For a special occasion, you might include whipped cream or even a sprinkle of crushed cookies for extra texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).