Berry Cheesecake Parfaits:
Prepare granola as directed. For parfaits, substitute 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or sliced strawberries) for the tropical fruit and omit yogurt. In a medium mixing bowl place 3 ounces (1/3 cup) creamy style Brie or Brie cheese, rind removed. Add 8 ounces softened cream cheese (1 cup), 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar, and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Beat in 1 to 2 tablespoons milk to make desired consistency. Assemble as directed, substituting cheese mixture for yogurt and berries for tropical fruit. If desired, garnish with glazed almonds or walnuts.Nutrition analysis per parfait: 249 calories, 7 g protein, 21 g carbohydrate, 16 g total fat (8 g sat. fat), 42 mg cholesterol, 3 g fiber, 9 g total sugar, 9% Vitamin A, 15% Vitamin C, 161 mg sodium, 6% calcium, 6% iron
Almond-Cherry Cheesecake Parfaits:
Prepare granola as directed. For parfaits, substitute 1 1/2 cups pitted fresh sweet cherries for the tropical fruit and omit yogurt. Place 3 ounces (1/3 cup) creamy-style Brie or Brie cheese, rind removed. In a medium mixing bowl add 8 ounces softened cream cheese (1 cup), 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons milk to make desired consistency. Assemble as directed substituting cheese mixture for yogurt and cherries for tropical fruit. If desired, garnish with glazed almonds.Nutrition analysis per parfait: 255 calories, 7 g protein, 23 g carbohydrate, 16 g total fat (8 g sat. fat), 42 mg cholesterol, 3 g fiber, 11 g total sugar, 9% Vitamin A, 3% Vitamin C, 161 mg sodium, 6% calcium, 6% iron
*Tip:
If you don’t have time to make the granola, substitute your favorite healthful purchased granola.
**Tip:
You will have more granola than you need to make the parfaits. Use the extra as a topping for ice cream or pudding. Or to add crunch to salads or a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.