If you’re looking for a fresh, delightful way to make the most out of those holiday remnants, the Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe is exactly what you need. This simple, vibrant parfait layers creamy Greek yogurt with the tart sweetness of leftover cranberry sauce, balanced by the crunchy surprise of granola or cereal. It’s a quick, no-fuss treat that transforms something ordinary into a colorful and irresistible snack or dessert that feels both festive and refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a few basic but flavorful ingredients is all it takes to whip up this parfait. Each element plays its part—Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, leftover cranberry sauce brings in that lively burst of fruity tang, honey sweetens gently, and granola contributes both crunch and warmth of texture.
- Greek yogurt (â…” cup): Plain or vanilla non-fat works beautifully for a creamy base packed with protein.
- Leftover cranberry sauce (1 to 2 tablespoons): Adds a bright, tangy contrast; adjust amount to taste.
- Honey (1 to 2 tablespoons): Natural sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberry sauce.
- Granola or cereal: Provides a satisfying crunch and textural variety, feel free to use your favorite kind.
How to Make Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe
Step 1: Layer the First Yogurt Base
Start by spooning half of your creamy Greek yogurt into a parfait glass or bowl. This forms the lush, smooth foundation of the parfait that perfectly contrasts with the other layers.
Step 2: Add Honey and Cranberry Sauce
Drizzle a bit of honey over the yogurt to bring subtle sweetness, then add a few spoonfuls of that vibrant leftover cranberry sauce. The tartness of the cranberries pops against the creamy yogurt and sweet honey.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Crunchy Layer
Evenly scatter a layer of granola or your favorite cereal over the cranberry sauce. This adds a wonderful texture and a toasted note that elevates each bite beyond just creamy and sweet.
Step 4: Finish with the Remaining Layers
Add the remaining Greek yogurt on top of the granola layer, follow it with another drizzle of honey, and then sprinkle more granola for a beautiful and crunchy crown. The parfait is now ready for immediate enjoyment.
How to Serve Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe
Garnishes
To make your parfait even more inviting, consider topping it with a few fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness and a pretty pop of color. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon to enhance aroma and texture.
Side Dishes
This parfait shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a hot cup of herbal tea or a light breakfast sandwich for a balanced morning meal. For a brunch spread, offer alongside fresh fruit or toasted baguette slices with cream cheese to round out the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe in clear glass jars or small mason jars for an adorable grab-and-go option. Layering in wide-mouth jars shows off the vibrant colors and textures perfectly, turning a humble snack into an eye-catching treat for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to make more parfait than you can eat immediately, cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one day. Be mindful that granola will soften over time, so for best crunch, add fresh granola when ready to serve.
Freezing
This parfait is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will alter the texture of the yogurt and cranberry sauce. To save time, you can freeze individual components like homemade cranberry sauce separately and assemble the parfait fresh each time.
Reheating
Since this parfait is served cold, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, keep it chilled until ready to enjoy to preserve its creamy and crunchy contrast.
FAQs
Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain Greek yogurt?
Absolutely! Vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt adds a lovely hint of sweetness that complements the cranberry sauce nicely without overpowering it.
Is there a substitute for honey in this parfait?
Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar work wonderfully as alternatives if you want a different type of natural sweetness or prefer a vegan option.
What types of granola are best for this recipe?
Any crunchy granola works well, but those with nuts, dried fruits, or a hint of cinnamon bring extra depth to the parfait. Choose your favorite texture and flavor profile.
Can I prepare this parfait for a crowd?
Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients and use individual cups or a large glass trifle bowl for serving. Layering looks stunning in larger portions too.
Will this parfait keep well overnight?
It will stay tasty overnight in the refrigerator, but for crunchier granola, add it just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about turning leftovers into an elegant, wholesome dish like the Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe. It’s quick, refreshing, and wonderfully versatile — perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert. Give it a try next time you want to brighten up that leftover cranberry sauce and snack with joy and color!
Print
Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 1 parfait
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Leftover Cranberry Sauce Parfait is a quick and easy no-cook recipe perfect for using up leftover cranberry sauce. Layered with creamy Greek yogurt, sweet honey, crunchy granola, and tart cranberry sauce, this parfait makes for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Parfait Ingredients
- â…” cup plain or vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 to 2 tablespoons leftover cranberry sauce, to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey, to taste
- Granola or cereal, as needed for layering
Instructions
- Prepare Bottom Yogurt Layer: In a parfait glass or bowl, spoon half of the Greek yogurt to create the base layer.
- Add Honey and Cranberry Sauce: Drizzle a bit of honey over the yogurt, then add a few spoonfuls of leftover cranberry sauce to impart a sweet and tart flavor.
- Layer with Granola: Sprinkle a generous layer of granola or your choice of cereal evenly over the cranberry sauce to add a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
- Add Top Yogurt and Garnish: Spoon the remaining Greek yogurt over the granola layer, drizzle with more honey, and finish with an additional sprinkle of granola on top.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your cranberry sauce parfait right away for the best texture and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute the granola with any crunchy cereal or nuts depending on your preference and dietary needs.
- Adjust honey and cranberry sauce quantities based on your desired sweetness and tartness.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
- This parfait is best consumed immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours if needed.
