This parfait dessert was a favorite among CNN Wellness recipe testers.
This parfait dessert was a favorite among CNN Wellness recipe testers.
Heather Fulbright/CNN
CNN  — 

Ricotta is whipped with cream cheese to give a thick, rich filling that complements crunchy granola and juicy strawberries. The protein-rich ricotta and high-fiber oats provide the perfect combo for a healthy yet decadent parfait dessert.

You can make the filling and the granola a day ahead; storing the ricotta mixture in the fridge overnight will make it nice and cold. On day of serving, assemble the components right before serving.

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

Filling

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup ricotta
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon finely grated orange zest

Granola

  • 1 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups strawberries, finely chopped
  • Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

Look for bright red strawberries with fresh green caps. Keep the fruit dry and refrigerated until prep.
Look for bright red strawberries with fresh green caps. Keep the fruit dry and refrigerated until prep.
Heather Fulbright/CNN

1. Make the filling: In a food processor, add cream cheese, ricotta, maple syrup, vanilla extract and orange zest. Mix on medium speed until ricotta filling is thick and creamy, about 30 seconds. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

2. Make the granola: In a medium bowl, add the oats, almonds, salt and cinnamon. Mix and set aside. In a skillet over medium-low heat, add avocado oil and maple syrup and stir until bubbly, about 30 seconds. Add the oat mixture and mix well until oats are fully coated.

0708kitchensplurge lead
iStock

Related article 17 kitchen splurges that are actually worth it, according to experts (CNN Underscored)

Continue mixing until oats are toasted and golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer oats to a plate. Let cool completely. Make ahead: Can be made 1 day ahead; store overnight in an airtight container.

3. To assemble, add 2 1/2 tablespoons granola in each of 4 parfait glasses. Layer with 2 1/2 tablespoons ricotta filling, using a mini silicone spatula to scrape out the measuring spoon.

Using a mini spatula makes layering the ricotta filling easier.
Using a mini spatula makes layering the ricotta filling easier.
Heather Fulbright/CNN

Next, layer 3 tablespoons strawberries in each glass. Repeat for another layer each of granola, ricotta filling and strawberries. Garnish with mint and serve immediately.

Cook this! Snapshot your creation, then share with #plateitpostit. You might be featured in an upcoming story!

Rahaf Al Bochi is a registered dietitian nutritionist, media expert and founder of Olive Tree Nutrition, a nutrition consulting company specializing in Mediterranean eating and women’s health.