Description

Craving a breakfast that’s quick, nutritious, and tastes like a decadent treat? Strawberry Cheesecake Breakfast Parfaits combine creamy cottage cheese, sweet strawberries, and crunchy granola for a parfait that feels like dessert but is packed with protein and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Strawberry Cheesecake Breakfast Parfaits use simple ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful treat. Here’s what you’ll need for 2-4 servings:

1 cup cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base with a cheesecake-like flavor.
2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional): Adds thickness and nutrition (fiber, omega-3s).
2-3 tablespoons maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, adjustable to taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the dessert-like flavor.
1 cup fresh strawberries: Adds juicy, sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color.
¼ cup granola: Brings crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Cottage Cheese: Creates a creamy, high-protein base that mimics cheesecake filling.
Chia Seeds: Thicken the mixture and add nutritional benefits (optional for a smoother texture).
Strawberries: Provide fresh, fruity sweetness and antioxidants.
Granola: Adds crunch and balances the creamy layers.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Substitute with Greek yogurt or ricotta for similar creaminess.
Maple Syrup: Replace with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener (adjust to taste).
Strawberries: Swap with blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for variety.
Granola: Use crushed nuts, cereal, or gluten-free granola for different textures.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cottage cheese or yogurt and ensure maple syrup and granola are vegan.
Gluten-Free: Choose certified gluten-free granola and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Nutty Parfait: Add 1 tablespoon almond butter to the cottage cheese blend or sprinkle chopped nuts between layers.
Chocolate Twist: Mix 1 tablespoon cocoa powder into the cottage cheese blend or use chocolate granola.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional), 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup fresh strawberries, and ¼ cup granola.
Slice or dice strawberries for layering, reserving a few whole or halved for garnish if desired.

Tip: Use whole milk cottage cheese for the creamiest texture, but low-fat works too.

Step 2: Blend the Creamy Base

In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons chia seeds (if using), 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.

Tip: Adjust maple syrup to taste; start with 2 tablespoons for a less sweet parfait.

Step 3: Layer the Parfait

In 2-4 glasses, jars, or bowls (depending on desired serving size), layer the ingredients:
- Start with a spoonful of the cottage cheese mixture (about 2 tablespoons per serving).
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries (about 2-3 tablespoons per serving).
- Sprinkle a layer of granola (about 1 tablespoon per serving).
- Repeat layers until the glass or jar is filled, ending with a small dollop of cottage cheese mixture and a sprinkle of granola or a strawberry for garnish.

Tip: Use clear glasses or jars to showcase the colorful layers for a beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve

Add optional toppings like extra strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead breakfast.

Tip: If storing overnight, add granola just before serving to maintain its crunch.