For the Cranberry Sauce
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar (or preferred sweetener)
1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Parfait Assembly
2 cups plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for mixing into the yogurt)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetening the yogurt)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Orange-Spiced Granola (The Parchment Step!)
Preheat your oven to 300°F 150°C
Line a baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper. This prevents the sticky granola from adhering to the pan and makes cleanup simple.
In a medium bowl, combine the oats, nuts, maple syrup, coconut oil, orange zest, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Mix until the oats are evenly coated.
Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer directly onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the granola is golden brown and fragrant.
Let the granola cool completely on the baking sheet. It will crisp up as it cools.
2. Make the Cranberry Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, and sugar.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the sauce to cool completely.
3. Assemble the Parfaits
If desired, mix the optional honey/maple syrup and orange zest into the Greek yogurt.
Grab 2 large glasses or jars.
Create your first layer: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the bottom of each glass.
Add a layer of Cranberry Sauce over the yogurt.
Sprinkle in a layer of the Orange-Spiced Granola (made on the parchment!).
Repeat the layers—Yogurt, Cranberry Sauce, Granola—until the glasses are full.
Finish with a dollop of yogurt and a final sprinkle of granola. Serve immediately or chill for later!
Enjoy your National Parfait Day!