Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 7-layer dessert is not only delicious but also customizable to your liking. With fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, it’s a refreshing and light treat that’s perfect for warm weather. The mason jar presentation makes it great for portion control and is perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, and the optional chill time lets the flavors meld beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1 cup granola (your favorite type)
- 1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Mini mason jars (4-6, depending on size)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the mixed berries under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel and slice larger berries like strawberries into smaller pieces.
2. Mix the Yogurt:
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup (if desired), and vanilla extract. Stir well until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble Layers:
- Take your mini mason jars and start layering:
- Begin with a layer of mixed berries at the bottom (about 1/4 cup).
- Add a layer of the yogurt mixture (around 2 tablespoons).
- Follow with a layer of granola (about 2 tablespoons).
4. Repeat Layers:
- Continue layering in this order: berries, yogurt, granola until you fill the jars. Aim for at least three layers to make them visually appealing.
5. Top Off:
- Finish the jars with a final layer of berries and a sprinkle of granola on top. You can add a mint leaf for garnish if desired.
6. Chill (Optional):
- For the best flavors, cover the jars with their lids and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve:
- Once ready, remove from the fridge, and serve cold. Enjoy the refreshing and creamy treat!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Total Time: 24 minutes (including prep time and optional chill time)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A (no cooking required)
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut or almond yogurt) and a dairy-free granola for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, between the layers for an extra crunch.
- Flavor Additions: You can add a splash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the yogurt mixture for added warmth and depth of flavor.
- Other Fruits: Feel free to mix up the fruit! Try adding kiwi, mango, or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover jars in the fridge for up to 2 days. The granola will soften slightly but will still taste great.
- Freezing: These jars are not ideal for freezing, as the yogurt and fruit will lose their texture. Best served fresh or within a few days.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before assembling the jars. Frozen berries may release extra juice, so it’s best to use fresh berries when possible for a cleaner presentation.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! These jars can be assembled a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just make sure to refrigerate them to keep the yogurt and fruit fresh.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
Absolutely! If you prefer flavored yogurt, feel free to use vanilla, strawberry, or any other flavor of your choice for a unique twist.
Can I substitute the granola with something else?
Yes! If you don’t have granola, you can use crushed graham crackers, nuts, or even a crumble topping made from oats and butter.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free granola, this recipe is completely gluten-free.
Conclusion
Mini Mason Jar Summer Berry Crisps are the perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special summer parties. The refreshing, creamy layers of yogurt, juicy berries, and crunchy granola come together beautifully in these portable, individual servings. Whether you make them ahead for a stress-free treat or enjoy them fresh, these mini mason jars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this simple yet delicious treat with your loved ones!
Mini Mason Jar Summer Berry Crisps: An Incredible 7-Layer Delight
These Mini Mason Jar Summer Berry Crisps are a delightful 7-layer dessert with fresh berries, creamy Greek yogurt, and crunchy granola. Perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing treat, these individual servings are both visually appealing and packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 24 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Dessert:
2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
1 cup granola (your favorite type)
1 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Mini mason jars (4-6, depending on size)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the mixed berries under cold water. Pat them dry and slice larger berries like strawberries into smaller pieces.
- Mix the Yogurt: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup (if desired), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Layers: In mini mason jars, begin with a layer of mixed berries (about 1/4 cup), followed by 2 tablespoons of the yogurt mixture, and 2 tablespoons of granola.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering in the order of berries, yogurt, and granola until the jars are filled. Aim for at least three layers.
- Top Off: Finish with a layer of berries and a sprinkle of granola. Garnish with fresh mint if desired.
- Chill (Optional): Refrigerate the jars for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge and serve cold. Enjoy!
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The granola will soften slightly but will still taste great.
Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. No reheating required.
Variations: For a vegan version, use dairy-free yogurt and granola. Add chopped nuts or other fruits like mango for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 5mg