Build Your Own Breakfast Parfaits

Tomorrow morning at 11:30 I’ll be on on NBC’s California Live, whipping up these breakfast parfaits. If you can’t watch the segment live, no worries. I’ll be posting a link to the segment online on my Instagram page and on Facebook. 

I had a blast last time I was in the kitchen with Malou. So, I’m looking forward to making these tasty (and healthy) breakfast parfaits with alphanbet cinnamon sugar croutons.

They’re always a crowd pleaser. Everyone gets to build their own, using their favorite ingredients. The kids love the croutons and chocolate chips.

As a mom, I love not having to stress over cooking breakfast for everyone, while still making sure they’re all well fed.

Yogurt Parfaits with Cinnamon-Sugar Alphabet Croutons

Serves 4

2 cups (16 ounces) flavored yogurt, I suggest Brainiac Kids cherry-vanilla or berry blend

Fresh berries

Sliced banana

Cinnamon almond butter

fruit compote, store bought or homemade

Sautéed apples (recipe included)

(For the alphabet croutons)

4 slices whole wheat or white sliced bread

2 tablespoons melted butter or oil

3 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 325F. Brush the melted butter or oil onto the bread with a pastry brush. Combine the cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle on top. Press the alphabet cutters into the bread. You may need a small butter knife to push the bread out of the cutters. Transfer the letters to a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or, until golden brown. Leftover croutons can be stored at room temperature for up to a week.

(For the apple compote)

2 Fuji apples, peeled, cored and diced

1/8 cup sugar

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon brandy

1 tablespoon orange juice

In a skillet, stir the sugar with 2 tablespoons of water over medium-high heat until the mixture boils. Add the apples and cinnamon and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the apples are tender. Add the brandy and orange juice. Cook for one minute to burn off all the alcohol. Remove the pan from the heat. Apples can be made up to two days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat just before serving.

To assemble the parfaits, place jars on the table along with tubes or cups of yogurt. Let guests select their own yogurt and toppings. Place a variety of toppings in small bowls: sautéed apples, fresh berries, sliced banana, chia seeds and cranberry compote. Place the alphabet croutons on a sheet pan, along with the chocolate chia seed stars.