Short description

I’ve crafted a chilled, layered Mango Berry Parfait that combines a creamy mango blend, tangy berry chia jam, crunchy nuts and seeds, and a light whipped yogurt topping—a refreshing treat perfect for summer.

Mango Berry Parfait

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how each spoonful delivers a symphony of textures and flavors: the smooth richness of mango and chenna, the bright tang of berry jam, the satisfying crunch of nuts and crushed biscuits, and the delicate creaminess of whipped yogurt. It’s visually appealing, satisfyingly sweet yet not heavy, and ideal for a breakfast boost, a healthy dessert, or a crowd-pleasing summer snack.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mango Layer:

Ripe sweet mangoes (traditionally Alphonso, Kesar, or Ataulfo)
Cottage cheese (chenna) or paneer
Cream cheese (optional; adds tang and body)
Milk
Sugar or honey (to taste)
A pinch of salt

Berry Chia Jam:

Mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, and jamun)
Chia seeds (soaked in water)
Honey (as needed for sweetness)

Cookies Layer:

Graham crackers or digestive biscuits (crushed)
Melted butter (to bind)

Nuts & Seeds Layer:

Coarsely crushed almonds, cashews, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds

Garnish:

Whipped Greek yogurt or thick plain yogurt
Diced fresh mango
Black sesame seeds

directions

Prepare the mango layer: Blend ripe mangoes, chenna (or cottage cheese), cream cheese, milk, sugar (or honey), and a pinch of salt into a thick, creamy mixture.
Make the berry chia jam: In a bowl, mash the mixed berries and jamun. Stir in soaked chia seeds and honey, then let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to thicken.
Create the cookies layer: Crush the biscuits and combine with melted butter until they hold together slightly.
Assemble the parfait:
- Place a layer of the crushed cookie mixture at the bottom of each glass.
- Spoon in a layer of berry chia jam.
- Sprinkle a portion of the crushed nuts and seeds over the jam.
- Add a generous dollop of chilled mango layer.
- Finish with a fluffy whipped yogurt topping.
- Garnish with diced mango and a scattering of black sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 parfaits
Prep time: Approximately 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling for the chia jam)
Total time: Around 20 minutes active prep, plus 30 minutes resting

Variations

Dairy-free option: Replace chenna and cream cheese with coconut yogurt or a plant-based ricotta. Use coconut yogurt for the garnish too.
Gluten-free: Swap biscuits with gluten-free cookies or oats.
Nut-free: Omit nuts and seeds, or use toasted coconut flakes instead.
Flavor twist: Add a squeeze of lime or sprinkle of mint to the mango layer for extra brightness.

storage/reheating

Store parfaits in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The berry chia jam can be stored separately for up to 5 days and used in other dishes like yogurt bowls or toast.
Before serving leftovers, give a gentle stir, as layers might settle or soften slightly.

FAQs

How ripe should the mangoes be?

I always use fully ripe, sweet mangoes—Alphonso, Kesar, or Ataulfo varieties work best—so the mango layer is naturally sweet and smooth.

Can I use frozen berries for the chia jam?

Absolutely. I thaw them first, then mash and combine with the chia seeds. It works just as well as fresh berries.

Is it essential to soak chia seeds before mixing?

Yes. I soak them in half a cup of water for about 30 minutes so they swell and help thicken the jam.

Can I prepare components ahead of time?

Sure! I often prepare the mango blend and chia jam the night before, then assemble just before serving to retain crunch in the biscuits and freshness in the garnish.

Can I make this in larger serving dishes instead of individual glasses?

Yes — I layer everything in a trifle bowl or a large parfait dish for a beautiful display; I just keep the layering order the same.

Conclusion

I hope this Mango Berry Parfait brings a burst of summer into your day. It’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and endlessly adaptable to dietary needs. I truly enjoy each bite of creamy mango, vibrant berry, and crunchy texture—it’s a refreshing and satisfying indulgence any time.