Pin this A festive brunch parfait bar featuring layers of creamy yogurt, spiced Christmas pudding, fruit compotes, and crunchy toppings—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This parfait bar is always a hit at our holiday brunches and brings a festive touch to the table.
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 Fruit Compote:
- In a small saucepan combine berries sugar and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes stirring occasionally until berries soften and the mixture thickens. Let cool to room temperature.
- Mix Yogurt 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.
Pin this Our family loves assembling their own parfaits which adds fun and personalization to every brunch.
Notes
Try other compotes such as spiced apple or plum. Wine pairing: Serve with Moscato d&Asti or a glass of mulled wine.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Small saucepan Parfait glasses or jars Spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (yogurt) nuts (optional) gluten (in Christmas pudding and granola). Christmas pudding and granola may contain eggs and gluten check labels if serving guests with allergies. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions use appropriate substitutes.
Pin this This parfait bar is simple yet elegant and sure to impress your guests this holiday season.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use dairy-free yogurt alternatives?
Yes, thick dairy-free yogurts such as coconut or almond-based varieties work well as a creamy base.
- → How can I prepare the fruit compote?
Simmer mixed berries with sugar and lemon juice for 5–7 minutes until thickened, then cool to room temperature before layering.
- → What are good alternatives to Christmas pudding?
Substitutes like gingerbread or fruitcake provide similar festive flavors and textures for layering.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
You can prepare each component in advance, but assemble just before serving to keep textures fresh.
- → What toppings complement the parfait best?
Granola, toasted nuts, dried cranberries or raisins, fresh apple and orange, pomegranate seeds, cinnamon, and mint all enhance flavor and texture.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
The pudding and granola may contain gluten, eggs, and nuts. Use substitutes for gluten-free or dairy-free needs.