Festive Cranberry Walnut Granola with Maple Yogurt Parfait

The holiday season calls for breakfast recipes that are both nourishing and celebratory. This Festive Cranberry Walnut Granola with Maple Yogurt Parfait combines crispy, wholesome granola with creamy yogurt and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. It's the perfect balance of indulgent flavors and nutritious ingredients, making it ideal for holiday mornings when you want something special without the guilt.

This recipe features generous amounts of healthy fats from walnuts and protein-rich Greek yogurt, ensuring you stay satisfied throughout the morning while enjoying festive flavors.

Ingredients and Their Nutritional Benefits

This granola combines wholesome ingredients that provide sustained energy and lasting satisfaction:

Rolled oats provide fiber and complex carbohydrates that keep you full.

1. Walnuts offer omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based protein for heart health.

2. Dried cranberries add festive color, antioxidants, and a burst of tartness.

3. Pure maple syrup provides natural sweetness and minerals like manganese.

4. Coconut oil contributes healthy medium-chain fats that support metabolism.

5. Cinnamon adds warm spice and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

6. Greek yogurt delivers high-quality protein and probiotics for gut health.

7. Honey drizzle adds natural sweetness and additional nutrition to the parfait.

Granola Ingredients (makes 3 cups):

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1 cup raw walnut pieces

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Parfait Assembly (per serving):

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/3 cup prepared granola

• 1 tablespoon raw almonds, sliced

• 1/2 tablespoon honey

• Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)

  
  

Step-by-Step Granola Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

   
   

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, walnut pieces, and sea salt. Stir well to distribute the salt evenly throughout the mixture.

   
   

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. This creates a cohesive coating for the oats and nuts.

   
   

4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly, ensuring every oat and walnut piece is coated with the maple-cinnamon mixture. Work quickly so the mixture doesn't clump unevenly.

   
   

5. Spread the granola mixture in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This even distribution ensures crispy, golden results.

   
   

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 7 minutes to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. The granola should smell fragrant and look lightly golden when done.

   
   

7. Remove from the oven and immediately add the dried cranberries while the granola is still warm. This helps them soften slightly.

   
   

8. Spread the hot granola on a clean surface or parchment paper to cool completely. As it cools, it will crisp up. Break into clusters once cooled.

   
   

9. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Per serving: Makes 6 parfaits

Assembling Your Festive Parfait

Layer Greek yogurt at the base of your bowl or glass—this provides the creamy foundation and protein base for your parfait.

Add a generous scoop of the cooled granola on top of the yogurt, creating a delightful textural contrast between creamy and crispy.

Drizzle lightly with honey to enhance the sweetness and festive presentation.

Top with sliced almonds for additional crunch and healthy fats.

Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh mint for a beautiful holiday presentation and additional antioxidants.

Perfect for Holiday Mornings

This Festive Cranberry Walnut Granola with Maple Yogurt Parfait brings together seasonal flavors with wholesome, nutritious ingredients. Whether you're enjoying it alone on a quiet morning or sharing it with loved ones during holiday celebrations, this parfait delivers both taste and nourishment. The combination of protein from Greek yogurt and walnuts, healthy fats from nuts and coconut oil, and fiber from oats makes it a breakfast that will keep you energized throughout your festive day.