Spiced Pear and Ginger Chia Parfaits with Crunchy Maple Granola

Ingredients

• •2 ripe pears, diced
• •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• •1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• •1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• •1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• •2 tablespoons chia seeds
• •1/4 cup maple syrup
• •1 cup rolled oats
• •1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
• •1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• •1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• •Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Prepare the spiced pears by adding the diced pears, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, grated fresh ginger, and honey or maple syrup to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. 2

   Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and chia seeds. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb and thicken the yogurt.

3. 3

   Step 3: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) for the granola. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds or walnuts, sea salt, and smoked paprika (optional). In a small saucepan, warm the maple syrup and vanilla extract, then pour over the oat mixture, stirring to coat evenly.

4. 4

   Step 4: Spread the granola mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and fragrant. Let the granola cool completely to become crisp.

5. 5

   Step 5: Assemble the parfaits by layering the chia yogurt, spiced pears, and crunchy maple granola in individual serving glasses or jars. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.

6. 6

   Step 6: Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired, and serve immediately. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days for a make-ahead breakfast or snack.