Apple Pie Parfaits
These delightful Apple Pie Parfaits transform the traditional American dessert into elegant, individual servings that capture the essence of homemade apple pie without the fuss of pie crust preparation. These layered apple desserts combine warm spiced apples, crunchy granola "crust," and creamy whipped topping in perfect harmony.
Equipment
- Large Saucepan
- Mixing Bowls
- Serving Glasses or Jars
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 4 medium Honeycrisp apples peeled and diced (about 4 cups) - Granny Smith or Pink Lady apples work wonderfully for a more tart flavor
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar packed - Coconut sugar makes a great less-refined alternative
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Crust Layer
- 2 cups granola Choose a low-sugar variety for a healthier option
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Cream Layer
- 2 cups whipped topping Greek yogurt makes an excellent protein-rich alternative
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- ground cinnamon for dusting
- caramel sauce optional - Date syrup provides a healthier alternative
- fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the apples and stir to coat evenly. Add the lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Once the apples have softened and released their juices (about 5-7 minutes), add the cornstarch slurry to the pan. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- While the apple mixture cools, combine the granola with melted butter and honey in a bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the granola is evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, gently fold the vanilla extract into your whipped topping.
- Take your serving glasses or jars and begin layering. Start with about 2 tablespoons of the granola mixture, pressing it lightly to create a solid base. Add approximately 3 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling, then top with 2 tablespoons of the cream layer. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your glass, finishing with a dollop of cream.
- Dust the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, drizzle with caramel sauce if desired, and add a small mint leaf for color contrast.
- For the best flavor experience, let the parfaits chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the components ahead of time but assemble no more than 4 hours before serving to prevent the granola from becoming soggy.
- Store assembled parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For meal prep, store components separately: apple filling (up to 4 days refrigerated), granola mix (1 week in an airtight container), and whipped topping (per package instructions).
- The apple filling can be frozen for up to 3 months—simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 120mgFiber: 4gSugar: 24g
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