Easy Cranberry Apple Pie Parfaits

Looking for a delicious dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these Cranberry Apple Pie Parfaits! With layers of baked apples, tangy cranberry compote, creamy Greek yogurt, and crushed shortbread cookies, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of sweet baked apples and tart cranberry compote creates a perfect balance of flavors.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have these parfaits ready in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: These parfaits can be assembled ahead of time, making them a great option for parties or gatherings.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Baked Apples:

• Medium apples: Adds sweetness and texture to the parfaits.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Brown sugar: Sweetens the apples and creates a caramelized coating.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the apples.

For the Cranberry Compote:

• Fresh or frozen cranberries: Adds a tart and fruity flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the compote.
• Water: Helps to cook down the cranberries.
• Orange juice (optional): Adds a citrusy twist.

For Assembly:

• Vanilla Greek yogurt or whipped cream: Adds creaminess.
• Shortbread cookies, crushed: Adds crunch and sweetness.
• Clear plastic cups or mason jars: For layering the ingredients.
• Mini cinnamon sticks or leaf-shaped sprinkles for garnish: Adds a festive touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook until apples are tender.
2. In another saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange juice. Cook until cranberries burst and mixture thickens.
3. To assemble the parfaits, layer baked apples, cranberry compote, Greek yogurt or whipped cream, and crushed shortbread cookies in clear cups or jars.
4. Garnish with mini cinnamon sticks or leaf-shaped sprinkles.

Helpful Tips:

• For a shortcut, use store-bought apple pie filling instead of making the baked apples from scratch.
• Add a sprinkle of granola on top for extra crunch.
• Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile.
2. Adjust the sweetness of the cranberry compote to your taste preference.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice to the cranberry compote for a brighter flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

These Cranberry Apple Pie Parfaits pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve them as a light dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet treat at a holiday gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds or enjoy them chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh in the compote.
2. Can I make these parfaits ahead of time? Yes, these parfaits can be assembled up to a day in advance. Just wait to add the crushed cookies until serving.
3. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? Yes, regular yogurt can be used, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker and creamier texture.

Conclusion:

These Cranberry Apple Pie Parfaits are a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Give them a try and let us know what you think! Share your feedback and pictures with us on social media. Enjoy!

Print