Save The first crisp morning of autumn hit me last year when my CSA box arrived with two pie pumpkins I didn't know what to do with. I roasted them, puréed the flesh, and started experimenting. That afternoon, my roommate walked in to find me with pumpkin on my chin and three half-assembled jars on the counter, grinning like I'd discovered gold.
My sister texted me at 9 PM one night, stressed about hosting a last-minute brunch the next morning. I walked her through this parfait over the phone. She called me three hours later laughing because she'd accidentally made quadruple the pumpkin layer and was eating it straight from the bowl with a fork.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin purée: Make your own from roasted pie pumpkins or use canned, but definitely avoid the pie filling mix which has spices and sugar already added
- Maple syrup: Grade A or Grade B both work, but Grade B has a deeper, more robust flavor that holds up better against the yogurt tang
- Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt gives you that luxurious, thick texture that doesn't separate as quickly when layered
- Granola: Look for clusters rather than fine crumbles since they maintain crunch longer even after sitting in the refrigerator
Instructions
- Blend the pumpkin base:
- Whisk the pumpkin purée with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the mixture is smooth and uniformly spiced, about 30 seconds
- Sweeten the yogurt:
- Fold honey or maple syrup into the Greek yogurt until just combined, leaving some texture rather than whipping it completely smooth
- Build the foundation:
- Divide half the pumpkin mixture between two jars, spreading it into an even layer at the bottom
- Add creaminess:
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of yogurt over each pumpkin layer, gently spreading to the edges without disturbing the base
- Sprinkle the crunch:
- Scatter granola and chopped pecans over the yogurt, pressing them in slightly so they adhere to the creamy layer
- Repeat the layers:
- Add another round of pumpkin, then yogurt, ending with a dollop of yogurt on top and a final sprinkling of granola
- Finish with flair:
- Dust each parfait with cinnamon and scatter pumpkin seeds over the surface for that restaurant-style presentation
- Time your serve:
- Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch or refrigerate up to 2 hours, knowing the granola will soften into a more pudding-like texture
Save These parfaits saved Thanksgiving morning two years ago when my oven decided to die at 7 AM with a full house expected by 10. I set up a parfait station with different toppings and let everyone build their own. It became such a hit that my family now requests the parfait bar more than the actual turkey.
Make It Yours
Coconut yogurt transforms this into a fully vegan breakfast that's just as creamy and satisfying. Swap the pecans for pepitas throughout if you're avoiding nuts, or use sunflower seeds for a school-safe version.
Batch Prep Magic
Mix a double batch of the pumpkin spice blend on Sunday and keep it in an airtight container. During the week, you can fold a tablespoon into plain yogurt or oatmeal for instant fall flavor without measuring out five different spices each time.
Serving Ideas Beyond Breakfast
This parfait works beautifully as a light dessert after a heavy meal. I've served it in wine glasses with dinner parties, and people always reach for seconds. You can also freeze the assembled parfaits for 2 hours for a semifreddo texture.
- Serve alongside spiced cider or chai for a complete autumn experience
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream if you want something more indulgent
- Crumble gingersnaps over the top instead of granola for a dessert twist
Save Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones that carry you through entire seasons. This parfait has seen me through rushed mornings, unexpected guests, and moments when I needed something that felt like a hug without turning on the stove.
Common Questions
- → How do I keep the granola crunchy?
Serve the parfait immediately after layering to enjoy the granola’s crunch. If refrigerated, the granola will soften slightly.
- → Can I use different spices in the pumpkin layer?
Yes, spices like cloves or allspice can be added or substituted to suit your taste preferences.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Coconut yogurt works well as a vegan alternative and adds a mild coconut flavor.
- → Are nuts necessary in the crunchy layer?
No, nuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and richness. You can omit them if preferred.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to maintain freshness and texture.