Ingredients:

– 1 cup oats
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped pecans, dried cranberries (if using), maple syrup, coconut oil, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything together until well coated.

Step 3: Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the granola turns golden brown. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even baking and prevent burning.

Step 4: Once the granola is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. As it cools, it will become delightfully crunchy, so try your best to resist snacking on it before assembling your parfait!

Step 5: In a jar or glass of your choice, layer two tablespoons of Greek yogurt at the bottom. Top it off with a generous sprinkle of the homemade maple pecan granola. Drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the granola layer.

Step 6: Repeat the layering process until the jar is filled, alternating between yogurt, granola, and honey. The final layer should be a dollop of Greek yogurt to give a creamy finish.

Step 7: Finally, crown your creation with thinly sliced apples or pears, arranged in a visually pleasing pattern. This not only adds a touch of freshness but also complements the flavors of the granola and yogurt.

Now that your Maple Pecan Granola Parfait is ready, it’s time to indulge in its deliciousness. Each spoonful will transport you to a world of contrasting textures, from the crispness of the granola to the smoothness of the yogurt, all perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of the honey and the fruity freshness of the apples or pears.

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to put your own twist on this recipe. Consider adding a sprinkle of chia seeds for added fiber or swapping the dried cranberries for raisins or chopped dried apricots. You could even experiment with different types of nuts or mix in a dash of vanilla extract for a more robust flavor.

So go ahead, take a moment to savor each bite of this Maple Pecan Granola Parfait. Let it nourish both your body and soul, just as it did for me all those years ago. May this simple dish bring you the same joy and comfort it has brought to me and my loved ones throughout the years.