Save A festive brunch parfait bar featuring layers of creamy yogurt, spiced Christmas pudding, fruit compotes, and crunchy toppings—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I love making this parfait bar because it brings festive cheer to the table and lets guests build their own delicious combinations.
Ingredients
- Parfait Base: 500 g thick Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative), 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Christmas Pudding Layer: 250 g Christmas pudding (store-bought or homemade), crumbled
- Fruit Compote: 200 g mixed berries (fresh or frozen), 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Toppings: 100 g granola, 50 g toasted nuts (such as pecans or almonds), chopped, 50 g dried cranberries or raisins, 1 apple, diced, 1 orange, segmented, 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit compote:
- In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5&ndash7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries soften and the mixture thickens. Let cool to room temperature.
- Mix parfait base:
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with vanilla extract and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
- Set up parfait bar:
- Arrange the yogurt, crumbled Christmas pudding, cooled fruit compote, and all toppings in separate bowls.
- Assemble parfaits:
- Layer yogurt, Christmas pudding, and fruit compote in glasses or jars. Top with a selection of granola, nuts, dried fruit, apple, orange, pomegranate seeds, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and fresh mint.
- Serve:
- Let guests build their own parfaits according to their preferences.
Save Our family loves gathering around to create their own parfaits each holiday season, making it a fun and interactive treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a cup of mulled wine or a glass of Moscato d&Asti for a festive touch.
Storage Tips
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Variations
Try different compotes like spiced apple or plum to switch up the flavors each year.
Save This parfait bar is a delightful centerpiece for holiday brunches that everyone can enjoy with minimal fuss.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use dairy-free yogurt alternatives?
Yes, thick dairy-free yogurts like coconut or almond works well, maintaining creaminess and texture.
- → How do I make the fruit compote?
Simmer mixed berries with sugar and lemon juice over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until softened, then cool before layering.
- → What toppings complement the parfait best?
Granola, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, fresh apple and orange pieces, pomegranate seeds, cinnamon, and mint leaves all add delightful flavors and textures.
- → Can the pudding be substituted?
Yes, gingerbread or fruitcake can replace the Christmas pudding for a similar spiced sweetness.
- → How should this dish be served?
Provide all components separately and let guests assemble their parfaits to their liking, perfect for gatherings.
- → Any tips for allergy-friendly versions?
Opt for gluten-free pudding and granola brands and use appropriate dairy-free yogurt alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.