I like easy apple desserts. Last month, we talked about apple crisp. That's certainly an easy recipe ... just sugared apples covered with a crispy topping. Of course, that's one that's best served warm. This month, I'm offering a simple apple dessert that's meant to be served chilled ... Apple Pie Parfaits.
Imagine combining your favorite aspects of a good apple pie -- delicious apples, a perfect blend of spices, the crunch of a good crust and the creamy topping to make it grand -- but leaving out all of the work involved in making a crust and baking it. That's essentially what Apple Pie Parfaits are all about. Take your favorite apple pie essentials and leave out the work. I can't imagine a more perfect combination!
Apple Pie Parfaits
- 2 c. thinly sliced peeled Macintosh apples
- 1/8 c. brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp. ground allspice
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2 oz. cream cheese (for an extra-rich flavor, use mascarpone)
- 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs
- 1 - 6 oz. container vanilla yogurt
- Whipped topping, if desired
Combine the apples and spices in a medium saucepan. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the apples are tender. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla and cream cheese.
Spoon a little of the apple mixture into each of two parfait glasses. Sprinkle with the graham cracker crumbs and top with vanilla yogurt. Repeat this layering technique until you have used all of the ingredients. Top with whipped topping if desired and serve immediately.
- Yields: 2 servings
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes