Homemade Activia Selects Parfait Crunchy Creamy Vanilla Lowfat Yogurt Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Introduction

Activia Selects Parfait Crunchy Creamy Vanilla Lowfat Yogurt is a beloved snack known for its layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet vanilla flavor. First introduced by Dannon, Activia has become a staple in many households for its probiotic benefits and delicious taste. However, store-bought versions can be high in sugar and may contain preservatives. Making this parfait at home allows you to enjoy the same great taste with healthier ingredients and more customization options. Plus, it's cost-effective and fun to make!

Why Make It at Home?

By making this parfait at home, you can control the amount of sugar, use higher-quality ingredients, and customize the flavors to your liking. You can also avoid preservatives and artificial additives found in some commercial products. Additionally, homemade versions are often more budget-friendly and can be tailored to dietary preferences like vegan, gluten-free, or low-sugar.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried to make a homemade version of this parfait. I was amazed at how easy it was to replicate the creamy yogurt and crunchy granola using simple ingredients. The best part was being able to reduce the sugar content while maintaining the delicious flavor. Now, it's a staple in my household, and I love experimenting with different flavors and toppings.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

Yogurt Base:

• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) plain low-fat yogurt (or Greek yogurt for a thicker texture)
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp (15-30g) honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Granola:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup (30g) sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil (e.g., coconut or canola oil)
• 1/2 tsp (3g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries (e.g., blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• Dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins)
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup

Instructions

• Make the Granola:

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, mix together the oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, cinnamon, and salt.
  • In a small saucepan, heat the brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, and vegetable oil over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
  • Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown and fragrant.
  • Allow the granola to cool completely before breaking it into chunks.

• Prepare the Yogurt Base:

• In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup until well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed.

• Assemble the Parfaits:

• Layer the yogurt, granola, and optional toppings in individual serving cups or a large glass jar. Start with a layer of yogurt, followed by a layer of granola, and repeat. Top with fresh berries or dried fruit.

  • Serve immediately for the crunchiest texture, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use unsweetened yogurt and reduce or omit the honey/maple syrup in both the yogurt and granola.
• Vegan Version: Replace the yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use vegan-friendly sweeteners.
• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that the oats and other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the granola for a spicy kick.
• Smoky Version: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the granola for a smoky flavor.

Pro Tips

• Toasted Granola: For an extra crunchy granola, toast the oats and nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes before baking.
• Fresh Flavor: Use fresh vanilla beans for a more intense vanilla flavor in the yogurt.
• Customization: Experiment with different spices, nuts, and seeds in the granola to create unique flavor combinations.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?

  • Absolutely! Fresh berries, nuts, and seeds can be used to make the parfait even healthier and more flavorful.

• What can I do if the granola turns out too dry?

  • If the granola is too dry, try adding a little more honey or maple syrup and baking for a few more minutes.

• How do I make it last longer?

  • Store the granola in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the yogurt base fresh each time for the best flavor.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?

  • Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients to make more granola and yogurt base as needed.

• Can I make this vegan?

  • Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt and vegan-friendly sweeteners to make a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Layer with fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey for a healthy start to your day.
• Snack: Enjoy as a quick and satisfying snack on its own.
• Dessert: Top with chocolate shavings or caramel sauce for a indulgent treat.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Activia Selects Parfait Crunchy Creamy Vanilla Lowfat Yogurt is a healthier, more customizable alternative to the store-bought version. With its creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet vanilla flavor, it's a delicious and nutritious option for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of making something wonderful from scratch!