Are you ready to enjoy a tasty treat that’s simple to make? The Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait combines the sweetness of apples with a creamy texture. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to create this delightful dessert. You’ll learn how to make it your own with fun variations and tips. Dive in for an easy recipe that will impress your friends and family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The tartness of the apples paired with warm spices creates a comforting and delightful taste experience.
- Healthy Indulgence: Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture while providing protein, making this parfait both satisfying and nutritious.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for a healthy breakfast or a sweet treat without much fuss.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite nuts and fruits to make it your own!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait
- 2 large apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 2 cups creamy Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional for added crunch)
- Honey or extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional for sweetness)
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap out the apples for pears or berries. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free oats and flour. If you're out of brown sugar, try using coconut sugar or regular sugar.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
To enhance your parfait, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon. You can also mix in some vanilla extract with the yogurt for a richer taste. If you want more crunch, try adding granola or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing Ingredients
First, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat helps the crumble bake just right. While the oven warms, I prepare my apples. I peel, core, and dice two large apples. I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their sweet-tart flavor. In a large bowl, I mix the diced apples with one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This juice keeps the apples bright and fresh. I also add one teaspoon of ground cinnamon and two tablespoons of brown sugar. I toss everything gently to coat the apples well and set the bowl aside.
Making the Apple Mixture
Now, I focus on the apple mixture. The lemon juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar blend nicely with the apples. This mix becomes flavorful as it sits. I let it rest while I prepare the oat topping. This waiting time helps the apples soak up all that tasty goodness.
Preparing the Oat Topping
For the oat topping, I grab a separate bowl. I combine one cup of rolled oats, half a cup of all-purpose flour, one-third cup of melted coconut oil, and one tablespoon of pure maple syrup. I stir this mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This topping adds a nice crunch to our parfait.
Assembling the Parfait
Next, I spread half of the oat mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This layer covers the sheet evenly. Then, I spoon the apple mixture over the oats, spreading it out well. I sprinkle the rest of the oat topping on top. This creates a crispy layer above the apples. Now, I bake everything in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The apples become tender, and the oat topping turns golden and crisp. After baking, I let it cool slightly. This helps the crumble firm up.
To assemble, I take individual serving glasses and spoon in a layer of creamy Greek yogurt. Next, I add a layer of the warm apple crumble on top. I repeat the layers until I reach the top of the glasses. I finish with the apple crumble. For a little crunch, I like to sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. If I want extra sweetness, I drizzle honey or more maple syrup over everything.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Crumble Texture
To get that perfect crumble texture, focus on mixing. Combine the oats, flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup until it looks like coarse crumbs. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense topping. Spread half of this mixture on a baking sheet before adding the apples. Bake until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. This gives you a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the creamy yogurt.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait
When serving, use clear glasses to show off the beautiful layers. Start with a layer of yogurt, then add a layer of warm apple crumble. Repeat until the glass is full. Top it with walnuts for crunch and drizzle honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. A sprig of mint can add a fresh touch that looks nice and bright.
Recommended Pairings with Beverages
This parfait pairs well with many drinks. A cup of hot tea or coffee works great for breakfast. If you want something refreshing, serve it with sparkling water or lemonade. For a cozy evening, enjoy it with a glass of dessert wine or a sweet cider. Each drink enhances the flavors of the parfait, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor, or sweet apples like Honeycrisp for a sweeter parfait.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits to the crumble for extra texture and flavor.
- Layering Technique: When assembling, alternate layers of yogurt and crumble for the best presentation and flavor distribution.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the apple mixture and crumble ahead of time and assemble just before serving for a fresher taste.
Variations
Different Fruit Combinations
You can use many fruits for your parfait. Try pears, berries, or peaches. Each fruit brings a unique flavor. For example, blueberries add a sweet burst. Strawberries lend a fresh taste. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Vegan or Dairy-Free Alternatives
You can make this parfait vegan easily. Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt. Use maple syrup instead of honey. Replace butter with coconut oil for a rich taste. This way, you keep all the flavor while making it plant-based.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free parfait, switch to gluten-free oats. Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of regular flour. This keeps the crunch without gluten. Check your yogurt too, as some brands offer gluten-free options. Enjoy this treat without worry!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Parfaits
To keep your parfaits fresh, store them in the fridge. Use airtight containers to avoid drying out. Parfaits will stay good for about 2-3 days. If you see any moisture, it is best to eat them quickly.
Tips for Freezing Components
You can freeze the apple mixture and the oat topping separately. Place cooled apples in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out air before sealing. For the oat topping, spread it on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer it to a bag. These can last about one month in the freezer.
Best Practices for Reheating
When you are ready to enjoy your parfaits, reheat the apple mixture in a pan over low heat. Stir it gently until warm. The oat topping can be warmed in the oven or microwave. If you want, toast it for a few minutes to regain its crunch. Assemble the parfaits right before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
How long can I keep the Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait in the fridge?
You can keep the Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait in the fridge for about three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Over time, the layers may get a bit soggy, so it’s best to eat it sooner.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert ahead of time. You can make the apple mixture and crumble topping in advance. Then, assemble the parfaits just before serving. This keeps the layers fresh and crunchy.
What other toppings can I use besides walnuts?
You can use a variety of toppings for your parfait. Some great options include:
- Sliced almonds
- Pecans
- Granola
- Fresh berries
- Shredded coconut
These add different textures and flavors to your dish.
Is it possible to use store-bought crumble instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought crumble if you're short on time. Just make sure it has a good texture. However, homemade crumble has a fresher taste and can be customized to your liking.
How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?
To lower the sugar in your parfait, you can:
- Use less brown sugar in the apple mixture.
- Skip the extra honey or maple syrup on top.
- Substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit.
These changes will help keep the sweetness while cutting down on sugar.
You learned how to make a tasty Apple Crumble Yogurt Parfait. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps, and fun tips. I shared ways to customize your parfait with fruits and toppings. You can store and reheat leftovers with ease. Remember, this dessert is not just delicious; it’s versatile! Enjoy making it your own, and don’t be afraid to try new flavors. Your parfait can impress anyone, and it's a fun treat for any time.