Orange "N" Nut Parfaits
A delightful layered parfait featuring sweet orange and coconut flavors, complemented by crunchy pecans—perfect for brunches, light desserts, or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and thawed orange juice concentrate.
- Mix well. Fold in whipped cream.
- In a small bowl, stir together flaked coconut, chopped pecans, and grated orange rind.
- Layer the filling and coconut mixture in parfait glasses, topping with the coconut mixture.
- Chill for 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the sweetened condensed milk mixture, or substitute half of the pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat whipped cream or yogurt instead of traditional whipped cream. For added texture, try mixing in some granola or crushed graham crackers.
Serving Suggestions
These Orange 'N' Nut Parfaits make a delightful dessert on their own, but you can also pair them with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. They are perfect for brunch or gatherings, and can be served alongside other delightful dishes like The Best Strawberry-Rhubarb Muffins for a sweet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The parfaits can be assembled ahead of time, but for the best texture, add the coconut topping just before serving. Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream can change texture when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange "N" Nut Parfaits contains roughly 511 calories, with 9g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
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 fresh orange juice instead of frozen concentrate?
Yes, you can substitute fresh orange juice for frozen concentrate. However, you may need to adjust the sweetness since fresh juice can vary in sweetness. Start with a smaller quantity and taste before adding more to ensure the parfaits are not too tart.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. However, always check that the brands of sweetened condensed milk and any added ingredients, like granola, are certified gluten-free to ensure safety for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare these parfaits in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the parfaits a day in advance. Just layer the filling and coconut mixture in parfait glasses and refrigerate. To maintain the texture of the whipped cream, add the coconut topping right before serving.
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).