Cherry Mint Parfait Recipe

Fresh cherries: These are pitted and halved to provide a burst of sweetness and a juicy texture.

Coconut yogurt: A dairy-free yogurt made from coconut milk, offering a creamy and slightly tangy flavor.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the yogurt mixture.

Granola: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the parfait.

To enhance the flavor of the coconut yogurt, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture. This will help to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup and bring out the natural flavors of the cherries. Additionally, lightly toasting the granola before layering it in the parfait will add a delightful crunch and a deeper, nutty flavor.

• fresh cherries - Substitute with frozen cherries: Frozen cherries can be used when fresh cherries are not in season. They are usually pitted and can be thawed before use.

• coconut yogurt - Substitute with almond yogurt: Almond yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and is also vegan, making it a good alternative.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan-friendly sweetener that has a similar consistency and sweetness level to maple syrup.

• granola - Substitute with crushed nuts: Crushed nuts can add a similar crunch and nutritional value, and they can be customized to your taste preferences.

• To keep your cherry mint parfait fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps to maintain the coconut yogurt's creamy texture and prevents the granola from getting soggy.
• Place the parfait in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. The cherries will remain juicy, and the mint leaves will retain their vibrant flavor.
• If you plan to enjoy the parfait later, consider storing the granola separately. This way, you can add it just before serving to keep it crunchy.
• For a longer storage option, you can freeze the parfait. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top to allow for expansion.
• When freezing, it's best to layer the coconut yogurt and cherries only. Add the granola and mint leaves after thawing to preserve their texture and freshness.
• To thaw, transfer the parfait from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it sit overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the parfait's consistency.
• Once thawed, give the coconut yogurt a gentle stir to restore its creamy texture. Add the granola and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

• First, separate the granola from the rest of the parfait to keep it from getting soggy.
• Place the cherries and coconut yogurt mixture in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without overheating.
• Alternatively, you can let the cherries and coconut yogurt mixture sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to naturally warm up.
• Once warmed, reassemble your parfait by layering the yogurt mixture, cherries, and granola.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and enjoy your refreshed cherry mint parfait!

• Bowl: Use this to mix the coconut yogurt with maple syrup.

• Spoon: This will help you mix the yogurt and maple syrup thoroughly.

• Serving glasses: These are used to layer the yogurt mixture, cherries, and granola.

• Knife: You'll need this to pit and halve the fresh cherries.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface to safely pit and halve the cherries.

• Measuring cups: These will help you measure out the correct amounts of cherries, coconut yogurt, and granola.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the maple syrup accurately.

• Mint leaves: These are used for garnishing the parfaits.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Pit and halve the cherries in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-made granola: Buy granola from the store instead of making it from scratch.

Mix in bulk: Combine coconut yogurt and maple syrup in a larger batch to save time on individual servings.

Layer efficiently: Set up an assembly line with all ingredients to quickly layer the parfait.

Garnish last minute: Keep mint leaves fresh by adding them just before serving.