High-Protein Greek Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries & Crunchy Granola
Easy Greek yogurt parfait recipe with fresh berries and crunchy granola. High-protein, paleo-friendly breakfast ready in 5 minutes!
Table of Contents
High-Protein Greek Yogurt
This Greek yogurt parfait with berries and granola is about to become your new favorite breakfast! Packed with protein, naturally sweetened with fresh fruit, and topped with satisfying crunch, it’s the perfect way to fuel your morning without any fuss.
What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is. You literally just layer ingredients in a glass or bowl, and voilà – you’ve got a restaurant-worthy breakfast that took less than five minutes to make. Plus, this Greek yogurt parfait is naturally high in protein (we’re talking 20+ grams!), making it ideal for anyone following a paleo lifestyle or just looking to start their day with sustained energy.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick grab-and-go breakfast, this parfait delivers on both taste and nutrition every single time.
Ingredients
For the Parfait:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat recommended)
- 1/2 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1/3 cup paleo-friendly granola (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your berries. Wash and dry your berries thoroughly. If using strawberries, hull and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Leave smaller berries like blueberries and raspberries whole.
- Mix the yogurt base. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon. If you prefer your parfait sweeter, stir in honey or maple syrup to taste.
- Start layering. Add about 1/3 of the yogurt mixture to the bottom of a tall glass or bowl. This creates your foundation layer.
- Add the first berry layer. Spoon about half of your mixed berries over the yogurt. Gently press them down slightly so they nestle into the yogurt.
- Sprinkle granola. Add about half of your granola over the berries. This creates that satisfying crunch we’re after!
- Repeat the layers. Add another 1/3 of the yogurt, followed by the remaining berries, and finish with the rest of your granola on top.
- Final touches. Top with any optional ingredients like chopped nuts, chia seeds, or a drizzle of extra honey. Garnish with fresh mint if desired.
- Serve immediately for the crunchiest granola, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours if meal prepping (though the granola may soften slightly).
Recipe Notes and Tips
Yogurt Choice: Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest texture, but 2% works great too. Avoid non-fat versions as they can taste too tart and have a thinner consistency.
Berry Substitutions: Frozen berries work in a pinch! Just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using. You can also use diced peaches, mango, or even pomegranate seeds.
Make It Paleo: Ensure your granola is certified paleo-friendly. Many store-bought options contain oats, which aren’t paleo. Look for grain-free versions made with nuts and seeds.
Storage: Assembled parfaits keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but the granola will lose its crunch. For meal prep, store components separately and assemble just before eating.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to your yogurt mixture for an extra protein punch – perfect for post-workout fuel!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Greek yogurt parfait the night before?
You can prep the yogurt mixture and wash your berries the night before, but I recommend assembling the parfait just before eating to keep the granola crunchy. If you must assemble ahead, add the granola right before serving.
How much protein is in this parfait?
One serving contains approximately 20-25 grams of protein, depending on your yogurt brand and any additional nuts or seeds you add. Greek yogurt is naturally protein-rich, making this parfait incredibly satisfying.
What’s the best granola for a paleo parfait?
Look for grain-free granola made with nuts, seeds, and coconut. Popular paleo-friendly brands include Purely Elizabeth, Michele’s Granola, or you can make your own using almonds, pecans, coconut flakes, and honey.
Can I use flavored Greek yogurt instead of plain?
While you can use flavored yogurt, plain Greek yogurt is recommended because it’s lower in added sugars and lets the natural sweetness of the berries shine through. Plus, you control the sweetness level with your own honey or maple syrup.
How do I prevent my berries from making the parfait watery?
Make sure berries are completely dry before layering. If using frozen berries, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels. Avoid overly ripe berries that may release more juice.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Store the yogurt mixture, berries, and granola separately in the fridge. The yogurt mixture keeps for 3-4 days, fresh berries for 2-3 days, and granola stays fresh in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can I add protein powder to this parfait?
Absolutely! Mix 1 scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder into your yogurt mixture. You may need to add a tablespoon of milk or water to thin the consistency since protein powder can thicken the yogurt.
What other toppings work well in this parfait?
Try sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, coconut flakes, chia seeds, hemp hearts, or a drizzle of almond butter. Fresh mint, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of cacao nibs also add great flavor variations.
Ready to Make Your Perfect Morning?
This Greek yogurt parfait with berries and granola proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few quality ingredients and five minutes, you’ve got a breakfast that looks Instagram-worthy and tastes even better.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Drop a comment below with your favorite berry combination, or share a photo on social media – I love seeing your creations. Don’t forget to save this recipe for those busy mornings when you need something nutritious and delicious, fast.
Pin this recipe for later, and share it with friends who are always looking for healthy breakfast ideas. Trust me, they’ll thank you for it!
