Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait
Ever wondered how to make a dessert that’s as pretty as a summer flag and tastes like a fruity dream? This Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait is the answer! Layered with creamy whipped cream, crunchy granola, and juicy strawberries and blueberries, it’s a no-bake treat perfect for 4th of July, breakfast, or any sunny day. It’s so easy, even kids can help build the layers. Ready to create this red, white, and blue delight? Let’s get layering!
Overview: Why This Parfait Shines
What makes the Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait so special? It’s a quick, no-cook dessert (or breakfast!) with vibrant colors, fresh fruits, and a perfect mix of textures. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Time Requirement: About 10 minutes of prep, no chilling needed unless storing.
- Difficulty Level: Super easy! No cooking, great for beginners or kids.
- Why It’s Awesome: It’s packed with fresh fruit, lighter than heavy desserts, and looks fancy with minimal effort.
This parfait is perfect for parties, brunches, or a healthy snack. Let’s check out the ingredients!
Essential Ingredients
A delicious Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait starts with simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 parfaits:
- Whipped Cream:
- 12 oz. heavy cream, cold
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- Why it matters: Heavy cream whips into a fluffy, sweet layer, and vanilla adds a warm flavor.
- Substitutions: Use store-bought whipped topping or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Swap powdered sugar for a sugar-free sweetener.
- Granola:
- 6 oz. granola (about 1 ½ cups)
- Why it matters: Granola adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy and fruity layers.
- Substitutions: Use homemade granola, gluten-free granola, or crushed nuts for a low-carb option.
- Fruits:
- 12 oz. fresh blueberries (about 2 cups)
- 12 oz. fresh strawberries, diced (about 2 cups)
- Why it matters: Blueberries and strawberries bring vibrant red and blue colors, plus natural sweetness and nutrients.
- Substitutions: Use raspberries or blackberries for similar colors. Frozen fruit works if thawed and drained well.
Tip: Choose ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor and color. Keep heavy cream cold until whipping for the fluffiest texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make this Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait with these easy steps. Follow along with tips to make it perfect!
Step 1: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 12 oz. cold heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and ½ tsp pure vanilla extract.
- Use an electric mixer with a whisk attachment on low-medium speed to whip the mixture until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
- Refrigerate the whipped cream until ready to use.
- Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping for faster results. Don’t overmix, or it’ll turn buttery.
Step 2: Prep the Glasses
- Choose four clear glasses (about 8-12 oz. each) to show off the layers.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of granola (from 6 oz. total) in the bottom of each glass.
- Tip: Use tall, narrow glasses for a fancy look or mason jars for a rustic vibe.
Step 3: Layer the Parfait
- Divide 12 oz. diced strawberries evenly among the four glasses, layering them over the granola.
- Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the strawberries in each glass, using about a quarter of the whipped cream total.
- Add 12 oz. blueberries, dividing them evenly among the glasses.
- Sprinkle the remaining granola over the blueberries, dividing it equally.
- Top each parfait with the remaining whipped cream, creating a fluffy cap.
- Tip: Use a spoon to spread whipped cream gently for even layers. Tap glasses lightly to settle ingredients.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
- Serve the parfaits right away for the freshest taste and crunchiest granola.
- Garnish with extra berries or a sprinkle of granola if desired.
- Tip: If not serving immediately, see storage tips below to keep layers fresh.
Assembly: Building Your Parfait
Creating a Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait is like crafting a colorful, edible flag in a glass! Here’s how to make it look stunning:
- Granola Base: Start with a crunchy granola layer for a solid foundation.
- Strawberry Layer: Add diced strawberries for a juicy, red pop.
- Whipped Cream Layer: Spoon on whipped cream for a creamy, white stripe.
- Blueberry Layer: Scatter blueberries for a vibrant blue contrast.
- Final Layers: Finish with more granola and a whipped cream cap for texture and flair.
- Presentation Tip: Serve in clear glasses to show off the layers. Add a small American flag pick or extra berries on top for a patriotic touch!
Tip: Layer ingredients gently to keep them distinct. Use a piping bag for whipped cream if you want extra precision.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Want to enjoy your Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait later? Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cover each glass tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. The granola may soften, but it’s still tasty.
- Store whipped cream separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days if not layered.
- Note: Don’t freeze, as the fruit and cream will become watery when thawed.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep whipped cream up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Re-whisk briefly before using.
- Dice strawberries and rinse blueberries a few hours before assembling, but keep them dry and chilled.
- Assemble parfaits up to 2 hours before serving and refrigerate to keep layers fresh. Add granola just before serving to maintain crunch.
- Tip: For parties, prep ingredients in bowls and let guests build their own parfaits for a fun activity.
This parfait is perfect for quick prep or planning ahead for gatherings!
Recipe Variations
The Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait is so fun to customize! Try these ideas:
- Tropical Twist: Swap strawberries for mango and blueberries for pineapple. Use coconut granola and coconut whipped cream.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add a layer of chocolate granola or sprinkle mini chocolate chips between layers.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or dairy-free whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
- Yogurt Swap: Replace whipped cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed parfait.
- Mini Parfaits: Layer in shot glasses or small cups for bite-sized treats, perfect for parties.
Get creative—every version is a delicious treat!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait is the ultimate no-bake treat for summer celebrations! With its creamy whipped cream, crunchy granola, and juicy strawberries and blueberries, it’s perfect for 4th of July, breakfasts, or healthy desserts. It’s packed with fruit nutrients, super quick to make, and so fun to customize. Grab your glasses, get the kids to help layer, and create these patriotic parfaits. Share your creations in the comments—I’d love to see your colorful layers!
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Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait
Description
Ever wondered how to make a dessert that’s as pretty as a summer flag and tastes like a fruity dream? This Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait is the answer! Layered with creamy whipped cream, crunchy granola, and juicy strawberries and blueberries, it’s a no-bake treat perfect for 4th of July, breakfast, or any sunny day.
Ingredients
A delicious Strawberry Blueberry Granola Parfait starts with simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 parfaits:
-
Whipped Cream:
-
12 oz. heavy cream, cold
-
¼ cup powdered sugar
-
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
-
Why it matters: Heavy cream whips into a fluffy, sweet layer, and vanilla adds a warm flavor.
-
Substitutions: Use store-bought whipped topping or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Swap powdered sugar for a sugar-free sweetener.
-
-
Granola:
-
6 oz. granola (about 1 ½ cups)
-
Why it matters: Granola adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy and fruity layers.
-
Substitutions: Use homemade granola, gluten-free granola, or crushed nuts for a low-carb option.
-
-
Fruits:
-
12 oz. fresh blueberries (about 2 cups)
-
12 oz. fresh strawberries, diced (about 2 cups)
-
Why it matters: Blueberries and strawberries bring vibrant red and blue colors, plus natural sweetness and nutrients.
-
Substitutions: Use raspberries or blackberries for similar colors. Frozen fruit works if thawed and drained well.
-
Tip: Choose ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor and color. Keep heavy cream cold until whipping for the fluffiest texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Whipped Cream
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine 12 oz. cold heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and ½ tsp pure vanilla extract.
-
Use an electric mixer with a whisk attachment on low-medium speed to whip the mixture until stiff peaks form (about 3-5 minutes).
-
Refrigerate the whipped cream until ready to use.
-
Tip: Chill the bowl and whisk in the fridge for 10 minutes before whipping for faster results. Don’t overmix, or it’ll turn buttery.
-
Step 2: Prep the Glasses
-
Choose four clear glasses (about 8-12 oz. each) to show off the layers.
-
Place a heaping tablespoon of granola (from 6 oz. total) in the bottom of each glass.
-
Tip: Use tall, narrow glasses for a fancy look or mason jars for a rustic vibe.
-
Step 3: Layer the Parfait
-
Divide 12 oz. diced strawberries evenly among the four glasses, layering them over the granola.
-
Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the strawberries in each glass, using about a quarter of the whipped cream total.
-
Add 12 oz. blueberries, dividing them evenly among the glasses.
-
Sprinkle the remaining granola over the blueberries, dividing it equally.
-
Top each parfait with the remaining whipped cream, creating a fluffy cap.
-
Tip: Use a spoon to spread whipped cream gently for even layers. Tap glasses lightly to settle ingredients.
-
Step 4: Serve Immediately
-
Serve the parfaits right away for the freshest taste and crunchiest granola.
-
Garnish with extra berries or a sprinkle of granola if desired.
-
Tip: If not serving immediately, see storage tips below to keep layers fresh
-
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
- A: Yes! Use about 2 cups of whipped topping to save time, but homemade tastes fresher and is customizable.
Q: What are the health benefits of this parfait?
- A: Strawberries and blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Granola adds fiber, and using less sugar or yogurt boosts nutrition.
Q: How do I keep granola crunchy?
- A: Serve immediately after assembling or add granola just before eating. Store separately if making ahead.
Q: Can kids help make this recipe?
- A: Totally! Kids can layer granola, fruit, and whipped cream or garnish with berries. Supervise whipping for safety.
Q: Can I use frozen fruit?
- A: Yes, but thaw and drain well to avoid watery layers. Fresh fruit gives the best texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
- A: Yes! Use coconut cream or dairy-free whipped topping and check that granola is vegan-friendly.