Christmas Morning Cranberry Cream Parfaits
A festive breakfast treat combining tart cranberries, creamy mascarpone, and crunchy oat crumble, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Compote
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup granulated sugar Can be substituted with honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup orange juice Any berry juice can be used as a substitute
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Layer
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese or cream cheese Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- a pinch salt
For the Oat Crumble
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour or almond flour Use almond flour for gluten-free version
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts Optional
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- a pinch salt
For Garnish
- Fresh mint leaves Optional garnish
- Extra orange zest Optional garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting Optional garnish
Instructions
Make the Cranberry Compote
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Over medium heat, bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Cook for about 8–10 minutes until thickened and most cranberries have burst. Let cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Oat Crumble
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts (if using), and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until coarse crumbs form.
- Spread on baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.
Whip the Cream Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until thick and fluffy.
Assemble the Parfaits
- Layer a spoonful of cranberry compote in the bottom of each glass.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream, then a sprinkle of oat crumble.
- Repeat layers and finish with cream and crumble.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with mint leaves, extra orange zest, or powdered sugar.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 4 hours before serving.
Notes
Can be made ahead. Store the components separately for best results. Watch for overcooking cranberries and soggy oat crumble.