Fluffy Yogurt Lemon Parfait

There's something utterly delightful about a dessert that combines creamy, tangy, and crispy textures in every spoonful. This Fluffy Yogurt Lemon Parfait with Sourdough Crumb Topping is a celebration of contrasts—velvety Greek yogurt meets bright, homemade lemon curd, all crowned with golden, buttery sourdough crumbs. It's a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for a special brunch or a light finish to any meal. The unexpected twist of sourdough crumbs adds a sophisticated crunch that elevates this parfait from simple to spectacular.

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The magic of this parfait lies in its layers. The Greek yogurt provides a protein-rich, creamy base that's lightly sweetened with honey and vanilla. The homemade lemon curd adds a burst of citrus brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. And then there's the star of the show—the sourdough crumb topping. By toasting sourdough breadcrumbs with butter and brown sugar, you create a texture that's reminiscent of a streusel but with a subtle tang that complements the lemon perfectly. Each spoonful delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Yogurt Layer: 2 cups (480 g) Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%), 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Lemon Curd: 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons), 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 3 tablespoons (45 g) unsalted butter, cubed
• Sourdough Crumb Topping: 1 cup (70 g) sourdough bread, torn into small crumbs, 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (25 g) light brown sugar, pinch of sea salt
• Garnish: Fresh berries (optional), lemon zest (optional), fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

In a heatproof bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from heat; whisk in butter until smooth. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Sourdough Crumb Topping

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add sourdough crumbs and brown sugar, sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toast, stirring frequently, until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Layer

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with honey and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Parfaits

In 4 glasses or jars, layer yogurt mixture, then a spoonful of lemon curd, then a sprinkle of sourdough crumbs. Repeat layers as desired, finishing with crumb topping.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh berries, extra lemon zest, and mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When making the lemon curd, patience is key. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon when ready. For the sourdough crumbs, use day-old bread for the best texture—it will crisp up more easily than fresh bread. Watch the crumbs carefully as they toast; they can go from golden to burnt quickly. If you're making these parfaits ahead of time, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving to maintain the crunch of the topping. The lemon curd can be made up to a week in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter version, use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt, though the full-fat version provides the richest texture. Try substituting lime or orange zest and juice for a different citrus twist on the curd. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and vegan butter throughout the recipe. If you're gluten-free, simply swap the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free bread. You can also experiment with different sweeteners—maple syrup adds a lovely depth, while agave nectar keeps things light. For added nutrition and texture, consider folding in chia seeds or ground flaxseed into the yogurt layer.

Serviervorschläge

These parfaits are best served immediately after assembly while the sourdough crumbs are still crisp. Present them in clear glasses or jars to show off the beautiful layers. For a brunch spread, set out the components separately and let guests build their own parfaits. Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries make excellent garnishes and add a pop of color. A sprig of fresh mint not only looks elegant but adds a refreshing aroma. For special occasions, consider serving in wine glasses or champagne coupes for an extra-fancy presentation. These parfaits pair beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a light sparkling wine for a sophisticated dessert course.

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This Fluffy Yogurt Lemon Parfait with Sourdough Crumb Topping is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements, it's a dessert that feels indulgent while remaining relatively light. Whether you're serving it for a weekend brunch, a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this parfait delivers on both taste and presentation. The homemade touches—the lemon curd and toasted sourdough crumbs—elevate it beyond ordinary parfaits, making each bite a memorable experience. Enjoy the layers, savor the contrasts, and don't be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!

Recipe FAQ

→ How is the lemon curd thickened?

The lemon curd is thickened using a double boiler method where eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and zest are whisked over simmering water until it thickens steadily.

→ What makes the crumb topping crispy?

Butter and light brown sugar are melted together with torn sourdough bread crumbs in a skillet, toasted until golden and crisp for texture contrast.

→ Can I use low-fat yogurt for this parfait?

Yes, low-fat Greek yogurt works well and creates a lighter version without compromising the creamy texture.

→ Are there alternatives to sourdough bread crumbs?

For gluten-free options, substitute sourdough crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs toasted similarly to maintain the crunchy topping.

→ How long can leftover lemon curd be stored?

Leftover lemon curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, keeping its fresh flavor and texture.