Peach Crisp Parfait Pops are a delightful fusion of creamy yogurt, sweet peaches, and crunchy granola, all frozen into a refreshing treat. Perfect for warm days, these popsicles offer a healthier alternative to traditional desserts, combining the flavors of a fruit crisp in a convenient, handheld form.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cartons (5.3 ounces each) fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granola without raisins
- 1 can (15 ounces) sliced peaches in extra-light syrup or juice, drained and chopped
- 8 freezer pop molds or paper cups (3 ounces each) and wooden pop sticks
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Fold in the granola gently to maintain its crunch.
- Divide half of the yogurt mixture evenly among the molds or paper cups.
- Add a layer of half the chopped peaches over the yogurt mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining yogurt mixture and peaches.
- If using molds, insert the holders. If using paper cups, cover each with foil and insert a wooden pop stick through the center.
- Freeze until firm, typically several hours or overnight.
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (1 pop):
- Calories: 167
- Total Fat: 3g (0g saturated fat)
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g (15g sugars, 5g fiber)
- Protein: 10g
Health Benefits of Peach Crisp Parfait Pops
When you think of dessert, the first thing that often comes to mind is something rich in sugar and calories. However, Peach Crisp Parfait Pops break that mold. By using Greek yogurt as the base, this dessert provides an excellent source of protein and calcium. Greek yogurt is also known for its probiotics, which promote a healthy gut, making this dessert not only delicious but also beneficial for your digestive health.
Peaches, the star fruit in this recipe, bring a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. Rich in vitamin C, peaches help to boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. They also contain beta-carotene, which is good for eye health, and fiber, which aids in digestion. The addition of granola adds crunch and offers a healthy dose of whole grains, fiber, and healthy fats, particularly when using a granola that’s free from added sugars and preservatives.
For those seeking a healthier, lower-calorie dessert, the Peach Crisp Parfait Pops fit the bill perfectly. With minimal added sugars, the natural sweetness of peaches is enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for refined sugars. Moreover, using fat-free Greek yogurt lowers the overall fat content of the dessert, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Peach Crisp Parfait Pops is their versatility. They can easily be adapted for different occasions, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a casual summer BBQ, or a more formal event. Their ease of preparation and the fact that they can be made ahead of time make them an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to offer something refreshing and unique without much effort.
For a more festive touch, you can customize the pops by adding other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as coconut flakes, chia seeds, or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. These parfait pops can be made in advance and stored in the freezer, so they are always ready to serve when you need them. Simply take them out and let them thaw for a few minutes before serving, and you’re good to go!
Additionally, Peach Crisp Parfait Pops are a great option for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream or popsicles. They are lower in sugar and fat but still manage to deliver a satisfying dessert experience. This makes them an excellent option for those who are looking to indulge without going overboard on calories.
Kid-Friendly and Family Approved
If you’re looking for a fun way to get kids involved in the kitchen, making Peach Crisp Parfait Pops is a great option. Kids will love helping to layer the yogurt and fruit, and they can even customize their own pops by adding different fruits or toppings. This activity not only gives children a sense of accomplishment but also introduces them to healthier dessert options.
Since these pops are made with nutritious ingredients like Greek yogurt, peaches, and granola, they make a great snack for children. You can feel good about serving them as a treat, knowing that you’re providing something that’s both enjoyable and beneficial to their health. Plus, the fact that they’re frozen makes them even more fun for kids, especially during the warmer months.
Customizing Your Peach Crisp Parfait Pops
While the traditional recipe calls for peaches, you can easily swap out the fruit for other options depending on what’s in season or your personal preferences. For example, swapping peaches for nectarines or plums can offer a slightly different flavor profile. You can even make a tropical twist by using mangoes or pineapples in place of peaches.
The choice of granola is another way to customize your parfait pops. For a nutty flavor, consider adding almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the granola. For a hint of spice, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the granola mixture to bring an extra layer of warmth to the pops. You can also make the granola yourself at home, allowing you to control the sweetness and ingredients.
For those who prefer a creamier texture, you could substitute the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or another non-dairy yogurt alternative. This makes the recipe vegan-friendly while still offering the same delightful taste and texture.
Peach Crisp Parfait Pops for Special Dietary Needs
These parfait pops are a great choice for those with specific dietary needs. The basic recipe is already gluten-free, especially if you ensure that the granola you use is made from gluten-free oats. For individuals who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, substituting the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt option is an easy way to make these pops suitable for everyone.
Additionally, the recipe can be made sugar-free by using a sugar substitute or simply relying on the natural sweetness of the fruit. This is ideal for those who are managing their sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes or those looking to reduce their overall sugar consumption.
Serving Suggestions
While Peach Crisp Parfait Pops are perfect on their own, they can also be paired with other desserts or snacks to create a well-rounded offering at any gathering. For example, you can serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light whipped cream topping for an extra indulgence. If you’re hosting a summer event, consider pairing them with cold beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or even a light cocktail to complement the refreshing flavors of the parfait pops.
For a more decadent dessert experience, serve the parfait pops with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce, or top them with whipped coconut cream for an added touch of sweetness. These pops can be served in individual cups or on a large platter for guests to grab and enjoy.
Conclusion
Peach Crisp Parfait Pops offer a refreshing, healthy alternative to traditional frozen treats while still delivering a satisfying dessert experience. With their combination of creamy yogurt, fresh peaches, and crunchy granola, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a fun summer treat, a healthier dessert option, or a kid-friendly snack, these parfait pops are an excellent choice. The flexibility in customization allows you to personalize the recipe to fit different tastes and dietary needs, making them a versatile option for any occasion.