Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to assemble these delightful and convenient yogurt granola packs:
- 2 cups Plain Greek Yogurt: Full-fat or low-fat, this provides a creamy, protein-rich base. Opt for unsweetened to control the sugar content.
- 1 cup Granola: Your favorite store-bought variety or a delightful homemade batch. Look for options lower in sugar for a healthier kick. The crunch factor is key here!
- 1 cup Mixed Berries (or other fruit): Fresh or frozen (thawed and drained if using frozen). Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries work wonderfully. Diced mango, peaches, or banana (add just before serving for banana to prevent browning) are also great.
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): For a touch of added sweetness, adjust to your preference. You can also use agave nectar.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional): Enhances the flavors and adds a warm, comforting note to the yogurt.
- Pinch of Chia Seeds or Flax Seeds per pack (optional): For an extra boost of fiber, omega-3s, and texture.
- Small, airtight containers with lids (e.g., small mason jars, Tupperware): Approximately 8-12 oz capacity works best for individual servings. Ensure they seal well to maintain freshness.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious To-Go Yogurt Granola Packs. The key is layering to maintain the granola’s crunch.
- Prepare the Yogurt (Optional Sweetening): In a medium bowl, if you’re using plain yogurt and prefer it a bit sweeter, gently stir in the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary. If you’re using pre-sweetened yogurt or prefer the natural tang, you can skip this step.
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash your fresh berries or other fruit thoroughly. If using larger fruits like strawberries or peaches, dice them into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen berries, ensure they are mostly thawed and drain any excess liquid to prevent the packs from becoming too watery.
- Assemble the Packs – Layering is Key:
- Layer 1 (Fruit at the Bottom – Optional): Some prefer to put a layer of fruit at the very bottom. This can be especially good if you’re using juicier fruits, as it keeps the yogurt slightly separated. Add about 1/4 cup of your prepared fruit to the bottom of each container.
- Layer 2 (Yogurt): Spoon the Greek yogurt evenly over the fruit (if using) or directly into the bottom of your containers if you prefer fruit on top. Fill each container about halfway to two-thirds full with yogurt, leaving enough space for granola and any additional toppings. Smooth the top of the yogurt layer with the back of a spoon.
- Layer 3 (Fruit on Top of Yogurt – Alternative/Additional): If you didn’t put fruit at the bottom, or if you want fruit both below and above the yogurt, add your fruit layer now, on top of the yogurt.
- Layer 4 (Granola – The Crucial Step for Crunch): This is the most important layer for texture. Sprinkle the granola generously over the yogurt and fruit. Do not mix it in if you are preparing these ahead of time, as this will make the granola soggy. The goal is to keep it as separate from the yogurt moisture as possible until just before eating.
- Layer 5 (Optional Seeds): If using chia seeds or flax seeds, sprinkle a pinch over the granola.
- Seal and Store: Secure the lids tightly on your containers.
- Refrigerate: Place the assembled To-Go Yogurt Granola Packs in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and granola crunch.
- Serve: When ready to eat, grab a pack from the fridge. You can stir the layers together just before eating or enjoy them as layered. Don’t forget a spoon!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 350
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g