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Ricotta Berry Parfait

Featured in: Sweet Crunch

A creamy, light parfait featuring layers of whipped ricotta and Greek yogurt, combined with sweetened strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The parfait comes together quickly for an effortless breakfast or dessert. Optional garnishes like granola or mint add crunch and freshness, and you can easily tailor sweetness with honey or maple syrup. Enjoy immediate assembly, or chill briefly for a refreshing, fuss-free treat suited for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.

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Updated on Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:36:50 GMT
Layers of creamy ricotta and juicy berries in a Ricotta Berry Parfait, served in a glass. Save
Layers of creamy ricotta and juicy berries in a Ricotta Berry Parfait, served in a glass. | nachohaha.com

This Ricotta Berry Parfait is my go-to treat whenever I want something light and easy that looks fancy but takes just minutes to make. Velvety ricotta meets a medley of berries, making each spoonful taste like a summer morning. Whether it is for a quick breakfast or a dazzling dessert, this parfait always brings a bit of sunshine to my table.

I first whipped this together on a hectic Sunday when friends stopped by unexpectedly. Now it is a staple anytime I need a fresh and fuss free crowd pleaser that feels special.

Ingredients

  • Ricotta cheese: brings creamy richness and body to the parfait. Choose a full fat ricotta for smoothest texture
  • Greek yogurt: adds protein and a slight tang. Go for a thick plain or vanilla variety and check the label for live cultures
  • Honey or maple syrup: brings natural sweetness. I always grab local honey at my farmer’s market for depth of flavor
  • Vanilla extract: ties the creamy layer together and adds aroma
  • Fresh strawberries: juicy and sweet with a little tartness. Look for berries that are deeply red and fragrant
  • Fresh blueberries: add a pop of color and burst with juice. Avoid any with wrinkled skins
  • Fresh raspberries: supply delicate tartness and a soft texture. Use berries that are plump and not squashed
  • Lemon juice: brightens the berries and balances the sweetness
  • Sugar: optional for taste just a sprinkle can lift the fruit
  • Granola or chopped nuts: if you like crunch. For quality crunch I prefer toasted nuts or a natural ingredient granola
  • Fresh mint leaves: as bright garnish. Always get the freshest, greenest sprigs from the store

Instructions

Prepare the Creamy Layer:
In a medium bowl whisk ricotta cheese Greek yogurt honey and vanilla extract for a good minute until completely smooth and airy. This creamy blend is the heart of your parfait so mix patiently to banish any lumps
Marinate the Berries:
In a separate bowl gently toss strawberries blueberries and raspberries with lemon juice and sugar if you like a sweeter finish. Let the berries sit for a few minutes so their juices develop and mingle for a real fresh fruit flavor
Layer the Parfait:
Spoon a generous layer of the ricotta mixture into the bottom of each glass or jar. Add a scoop of the marinated berries so every bite will have both creamy and juicy notes. Repeat with more ricotta and berries until you fill each glass finishing with berries for a pretty top
Add the Garnish:
Sprinkle granola or nuts over each parfait for a little crunch. Tuck in a few mint leaves on top which wakes up the flavor and makes each serving feel extra festive
Chill and Serve:
You can serve these right away or pop them uncovered in the fridge for up to two hours. The cold helps the layers set just slightly so they spoon up perfectly
Colorful Ricotta Berry Parfait topped with fresh mint leaves and crunchy granola for brunch. Save
Colorful Ricotta Berry Parfait topped with fresh mint leaves and crunchy granola for brunch. | nachohaha.com

My favorite part is that drizzle of honey over the ricotta. Every time I bring this to the table it sparks memories of summer picnics in my grandma’s garden. The berries always taste best when picked fresh but any good fruit will do

Storage Tips

These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh but you can store them tightly covered in the fridge for up to one day. If you plan in advance keep the granola or nuts separate until ready to serve so the crunch does not get soggy. Leftover berry mix is delicious stirred into oatmeal the next morning

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ricotta for mascarpone or thick coconut yogurt to change up the flavor. Use any mix of berries or even stone fruits like peaches or cherries in peak season. Maple syrup or agave both work for sweetener and vegan ricotta plus vegan yogurt bring a plant based twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these parfaits in glass jars or clear tumblers so those fun layers are on display. For dessert I love to top them with extra fresh berries and a tiny mint sprig. For brunch let everyone build their own parfait for a hands on feast

Cultural Context

Parfaits first came from France as a cold creamy layered dessert. This American spin replaces heavy cream with sunny fresh ricotta and yogurt plus vibrant berries that make it both lighter and better for breakfast. They capture a bit of old world elegance and new world ease in every glass

Seasonal Adaptations

Choose strawberries in spring blueberries and raspberries in summerTry apples or pears with cinnamon in fallWinter citrus works surprisingly well for a tangy holiday parfait

Helpful Notes

Layer parfaits just before serving for perfect textureFrozen berries are fine but thaw first and drain off any extra liquidCreamy layers can be sweetened to taste especially if your berries are tart

Success Stories

Readers have shared these parfaits starring at baby showers office brunches even summer picnics. One friend replaced berries with diced mango and pineapple for a tropical twist and had rave reviews from her kids. Another doubled the recipe for a last minute dinner party and had everyone asking for seconds

Freezer Meal Conversion

I do not recommend freezing the assembled parfaits but you can freeze the berry mix on its own. Defrost overnight in the fridge and layer just before serving. For an ultra quick morning treat blend the frozen berry mix with the creamy layer for a frosty breakfast bowl

Vibrant Ricotta Berry Parfait with sweet ricotta, mixed berries, and a touch of honey. Save
Vibrant Ricotta Berry Parfait with sweet ricotta, mixed berries, and a touch of honey. | nachohaha.com

Making this parfaits is a delightful way to enjoy fresh fruit and creamy textures. These parfaits are perfect for any occasion, from a simple breakfast to an elegant dessert.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before layering to avoid excess moisture.

→ What sweetener options work well?

Honey and maple syrup both add natural sweetness. For a vegan option, use agave syrup and plant-based ricotta and yogurt.

→ How far in advance can I assemble it?

For best texture, assemble just before serving or refrigerate for up to 2 hours. This keeps layers firm and fresh.

→ Are there nut-free garnish alternatives?

Absolutely. Use nut-free granola, cookie crumbs, or simple fresh mint leaves for garnish if avoiding nuts.

→ Can I customize the fruit selection?

You can use any combination of berries or seasonal fruit. Adjust sugar to taste depending on fruit sweetness.

→ Is this suitable for breakfast as well?

Yes, the protein-rich ricotta and yogurt make it a wholesome, satisfying breakfast, as well as a light dessert.

Ricotta Berry Parfait

Creamy ricotta, sweet berries, and honey combine in refreshing layers for a delightful treat or breakfast.

Prep duration
15 min
0
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Carlos Vega


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary requirements Meat-free

Components

Creamy Layer

01 1 cup ricotta cheese
02 1/2 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
03 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
04 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Berry Layer

01 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 1 cup fresh blueberries
03 1 cup fresh raspberries
04 2 teaspoons lemon juice
05 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)

Garnish (Optional)

01 1/4 cup granola or chopped nuts
02 Fresh mint leaves

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare Creamy Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved.

Phase 02

Prepare Berry Mixture: In a separate bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the lemon juice and granulated sugar (if using). Toss lightly to coat.

Phase 03

Assemble Parfaits: To construct each parfait, begin by placing a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at the base of a glass or jar. Follow with a layer of the prepared berry mixture. Continue alternating layers of the ricotta and berry mixtures until all ingredients are depleted, concluding with a final layer of berries on top.

Phase 04

Add Garnish: If desired, top each parfait with granola or chopped nuts and fresh mint leaves for added texture and visual appeal.

Phase 05

Serve: Serve the parfaits immediately. Alternatively, they can be chilled in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours prior to serving.

Tools needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Parfait glasses or jars
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if you're concerned about specific ingredients.
  • Contains dairy products, specifically ricotta cheese and Greek yogurt.
  • If granola or nuts are used for garnish, there is a potential for gluten and tree nut presence. Always review product labels for allergen information.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 185
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Proteins: 9 g