Caramelised Mango Parfaits: A Tropical Dessert with a Decadent Twist

Desserts that combine freshness with indulgence often leave the most lasting impression, and caramelised mango parfaits are a perfect example of this balance. Ripe, golden mangoes bring natural sweetness and a juicy tropical flair, while a quick caramelisation adds depth, warmth, and a touch of richness. Layered with creamy yogurt or whipped cream, crunchy granola, and sometimes a drizzle of honey, these parfaits create a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors in every spoonful.

What makes caramelised mango parfaits especially irresistible is their versatility. They can serve as a luxurious breakfast, a refreshing afternoon treat, or a show-stopping dessert for dinner parties. Plus, they’re as visually stunning as they are delicious, with vibrant layers that make the parfaits look almost too good to eat. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform everyday fruit into something truly special.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a breakdown of ingredients with approximate calorie counts per serving:

Ingredient	Amount	Calories (approx.)
Ripe mangoes	2 medium	270
Brown sugar (for caramelising)	2 tbsp	90
Unsalted butter	1 tbsp	100
Greek yogurt (or whipped cream)	1 cup	130
Honey or maple syrup (optional)	1 tbsp	60
Granola	½ cup	200
Mint leaves (for garnish)	Few sprigs	2

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the mangoes: Peel and dice the mangoes into bite-sized cubes.
2. Caramelise the fruit: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it forms a smooth caramel. Toss in the diced mango and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until coated and slightly softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Prepare the base: In serving glasses or jars, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or whipped cream as the first layer.
4. Add crunch: Sprinkle in a layer of granola for texture.
5. Layer the caramelised mango: Add a generous spoonful of the caramelised mango mixture over the granola.
6. Repeat layers: Continue layering yogurt, granola, and mango until the glass is full, finishing with a glossy mango topping.
7. Garnish: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired, and top with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
8. Serve immediately: Enjoy chilled for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Dairy-free option: Use coconut yogurt or almond-based cream for a vegan-friendly parfait.
• Extra crunch: Add chopped nuts like almonds, pistachios, or cashews along with granola.
• Flavor boost: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or cardamom over the caramelised mango for a spiced twist.
• Make it lighter: Swap granola for oats or puffed rice to reduce calories.
• Fancy presentation: Serve in stemmed glasses for a dinner party dessert or layer in mason jars for a picnic-friendly option.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Carbohydrates	52 g
Protein	6 g
Fat	11 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	34 g

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast treat: Pair with a cup of coffee or green tea for a luxurious morning start.
• Light dessert: Serve as a healthier alternative to cake or ice cream after dinner.
• Holiday table: Present in individual glasses for festive gatherings and celebrations.
• Summer refreshment: Chill the parfaits well and enjoy as a cooling snack on hot days.
• Party-style: Offer a DIY parfait bar where guests can assemble their own with toppings like coconut flakes, nuts, or chocolate chips.

FAQs

1. Can I make caramelised mango parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramelised mango and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the parfaits just before serving to keep the granola crunchy.

2. Can I use frozen mangoes instead of fresh?

Frozen mangoes work well, but make sure to thaw and drain them before caramelising to avoid excess liquid.

3. What type of yogurt is best for this recipe?

Greek yogurt is ideal because it’s thick and creamy, but you can use regular yogurt, coconut yogurt, or even whipped cream depending on preference.

4. How do I make it vegan-friendly?

Simply swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine and use plant-based yogurt (like almond or coconut yogurt). Replace honey with maple syrup or agave.

5. Can I caramelise other fruits the same way?

Absolutely! Pineapple, peaches, bananas, or apples caramelise beautifully and can be used in place of or alongside mango.

Conclusion

Caramelised mango parfaits showcase how simple ingredients can come together to create a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. The natural sweetness of mangoes paired with the richness of caramel and the creamy, crunchy layers makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you prepare them for a weekday breakfast, a weekend brunch, or an after-dinner indulgence, these parfaits promise to brighten the table and satisfy the sweet tooth without being overly heavy.