Spiced Apple and Granola Parfait

Photo: Kelly Beall

These spiced apple and granola parfaits straddle the lines between healthy and indulgent, breakfast and dessert. And I have to say, I like a dish that refuses to be put in a box!

This recipe offers an early fall version of one of my tried and true standbys—pumpkin pie parfaits (pumpkin pie filling, crushed graham crackers, and gingersnaps...you get the idea)—and takes advantage of fall's crazy apple bounty and the overflowing bushels at the farmers market. I used honeycrisp apples in my parfaits for a nice balance of sweet and tart, but feel free to use whatever varietal of baking apple you prefer. I also opted to leave the whipped cream unsweetened to balance out the brown sugar and sweetness of the granola.​

Whip up this light and fast treat for your next dinner or when unexpected guests drop by and watch as the bowl empties instantly!

Spiced Apple and Granola Parfaits

Serves 4

4 medium apples
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup granola (homemade or store bought to save time)
1/2 pint heavy whipping cream

Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/8-inch segments. Melt butter in nonstick pan on medium high heat, then add apples. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over apples and stir to distribute evenly. Sautee until apples are soft on the outside but still crisp in the center. About 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Photo: Kelly Beall

When ready to serve, prep the whipped cream. In a small mixing bowl beat with electric mixer on highest speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes. (If you wish to add powdered sugar for sweetness or vanilla, now is the time.) 

Divide apple mixture among four glass dessert bowls, cover each with 1/4 cup granola, then top with as much whipped cream as you wish. (I use about 1/4 cup on each dessert.) Sprinkle a little granola on each as a final garnish, and you're set. Enjoy!

Photo: Kelly Beall