This Eggnog Parfait is a cozy little twist on your everyday breakfast or dessert.
It’s creamy, spiced just right, and layered with crunchy granola and sweet, fresh berries.
I make this during the holidays when we have leftover eggnog in the fridge—it’s festive, super simple, and feels kinda fancy without any hard work.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is my go-to for when I want something easy but festive. It’s quick, delicious, and doesn’t require any cooking. I first made this after a holiday brunch where we had way too much eggnog. I mixed it with yogurt on a whim and it turned into something I now make all December.
- It’s no-cook and takes less than 10 minutes
- Great for breakfast, snack, or dessert
- Looks beautiful without trying
- Perfect way to use up extra eggnog
- Feels like a treat but still light
Makes: 4 servings
Total Time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups granola (use your favorite kind)
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- Optional: extra cinnamon for dusting
Pro Tips
- Mix the yogurt and eggnog really well so it’s super smooth before layering.
- Let the parfait sit for 5 minutes before serving so the granola softens just a bit.
- Use chilled ingredients to keep the texture thick and refreshing.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra holiday vibe.
- Use a clear glass cup so you can show off those layers—it’s half the fun!
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clear glasses or parfait cups
- Small spatula or spoon for layering
Substitutions and Variations
- Use dairy-free yogurt and dairy-free eggnog to make it vegan
- Swap maple syrup with honey or brown sugar
- Try chopped apples or pears instead of berries for a fall twist
- Add crushed gingerbread cookies in place of granola for dessert version
- Use vanilla yogurt instead of plain and skip the maple syrup
Make Ahead Tips
- You can mix the yogurt, eggnog, vanilla, cinnamon, and maple syrup a day in advance—store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Don’t layer the parfaits until right before serving so the granola stays crunchy.
How to Make Eggnog Parfait with Granola and Berries
Step 1: Mix the base
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup eggnog, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir or whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Start layering
Spoon a layer (about 2 tablespoons) of the yogurt-eggnog mix into the bottom of a clear parfait cup or glass.
Step 3: Add granola
Add 2 tablespoons of granola on top of the yogurt layer.
Step 4: Add berries
Layer about 2 tablespoons of fresh mixed berries (blueberries, halved strawberries, raspberries) on top of the granola.
Step 5: Repeat layers
Repeat the same layers: yogurt mix, granola, then berries until the glass is full.
Step 6: Finish and garnish
Top with a final sprinkle of granola and a few berries. Add a light dusting of cinnamon if you want.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Serve immediately with a spoon in a clear parfait glass or dessert cup.
Leftovers & Storage
- If already layered, store in the fridge and eat within 12 hours—the granola will soften.
- If keeping components separate, the yogurt mix can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Don’t freeze—it changes the texture.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Eggnog has a thick, creamy base that blends perfectly with Greek yogurt. The combo balances richness with a tangy bite. Adding maple syrup and vanilla smooths out the flavors, while cinnamon brings warmth. Layering keeps the textures fun—creamy, crunchy, and juicy.
Common Mistakes
- Overmixing: Stir gently—no need to whisk hard or it’ll get runny.
- Layering too early: If you’re not eating right away, wait to layer or the granola gets soggy.
- Too much eggnog: Keep it equal parts with yogurt so it stays thick enough to layer.
- Not drying the berries: Wet berries can water down your layers.
What to Serve With
- A hot latte or chai tea
- Buttery toast or croissant
- A slice of banana bread
- Scrambled eggs if you’re turning it into brunch
FAQ
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut or almond milk yogurt and dairy-free eggnog.
Can I make this ahead?
You can mix the yogurt base ahead of time, but don’t assemble the parfait until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first.
What kind of granola works best?
Any kind! I like using a chunky maple granola or one with nuts for extra crunch.
