Save This Mango Coconut Yogurt Parfait is the ultimate morning pick-me-up or sweet treat when you want something simple vibrant and nourishing. Cool creamy coconut yogurt meets ripe diced mango for tropical brightness while crunchy granola adds energy and texture. It comes together in minutes whether for a quick breakfast or as a fresh finish to a summery meal.
I first whipped this up on a humid July morning when I craved something cooling with bold flavors. My kids now beg for it as a weekend treat layered into tall glasses.
Ingredients
- Ripe mangoes: Sweet and juicy go for ones that give slightly when pressed for maximum flavor
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens and prevents the mango from browning choose limes that feel heavy for their size
- Coconut yogurt: Brings creamy tropical richness use unsweetened for less sugar or lightly sweetened for extra flavor be sure to check for smooth texture without added thickeners
- Maple syrup or honey: Offers a hint of sweetness taste your yogurt first in case it already meets your preference
- Granola: Crunchy contrast look for clusters that stay crisp and always check the label for gluten if needed
- Toasted coconut flakes: For extra coconut flavor and visual appeal choose wide unsulfured flakes if possible
- Fresh mint leaves: Lively garnish optional but it adds aroma and color pick perky stems without droops or blemishes
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango:
- Dice the peeled mangoes into even pieces for consistent bites. Gently toss with fresh lime juice in a mixing bowl to coat every cube. Allowing it to sit for a minute brings out the mango's juiciness.
- Sweeten the Yogurt:
- In a separate bowl stir coconut yogurt with maple syrup or honey if you want extra sweetness. Mix until completely smooth and taste to check the sweetness level.
- Layer the Parfaits:
- Start with a generous spoonful of coconut yogurt at the bottom of four glasses or jars. Use a spatula or back of the spoon to smooth an even layer covering the base.
- Add Mango and Crunch:
- Spoon some of the limey mango over the yogurt using enough to create a bright layer. Sprinkle a layer of granola over the mango ensuring some pieces peek out for texture.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Continue alternating layers of coconut yogurt diced mango and granola until the glasses are filled. Finish with a layer of mango and a final sprinkle of granola on top for a pretty finish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving top each parfait with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint if you have them. Serve immediately so the granola stays crunchy and every layer pops.
Save Mango is easily my favorite ingredient here—when it is golden and perfectly ripe it tastes like sunshine. I remember my youngest daughter pressing her face to the glass as I stacked layers and announcing it looked like a dessert from a fairy tale—she could not wait to dig in.
Storage Tips
Parfaits are best enjoyed freshly layered while the granola is crunchy. If making ahead assemble yogurt and mango in jars but wait to add granola and garnishes until just before serving to keep that satisfying crisp. Covered yogurt-mango combos will hold in the fridge for up to two days.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap coconut yogurt for thick Greek yogurt if you are not dairy free. Try fresh pineapple or papaya in place of mango if you want a twist or need to use up other fruit. The sweetener is flexible with agave or stevia both working well according to taste.
Serving Suggestions
These parfaits shine solo but you can dress them up for brunch with a drizzle of passionfruit puree or fresh berries on top. For a heartier snack mix in chia seeds or layer with roasted nuts.
Cultural and Historical Context
Mango and coconut are a classic pair throughout South and Southeast Asian cuisine where yogurt-based parfaits echo local lassi drinks and cool treats during hot seasons. The parfait format allows a play on international flavors with minimal fuss perfect for creative home cooks everywhere.
Save Try these parfaits freshly assembled for crunch and color—every bite really does taste like sunshine in a glass.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other fruits besides mango?
Yes, pineapple, papaya, or berries make delicious substitutes for mango in these parfaits.
- → Is this parfait suitable for vegans?
Absolutely. Use plant-based coconut yogurt and maple syrup to ensure it's fully vegan.
- → How do I make the parfait gluten-free?
Select certified gluten-free granola to keep this parfait free from gluten.
- → Can I prepare parfaits ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving to maintain crunch.
- → What garnishes enhance these parfaits?
Toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint leaves add flavor and a decorative touch to the finished parfaits.
- → Are there nut-free options for this parfait?
Check granola ingredients and use nut-free versions, as coconut is not considered a tree nut for most people.