These Ghostly Yogurt Parfaits are a fun, spooky twist on a classic parfait—layered vanilla yogurt, crunchy granola, fresh berries, and a marshmallow “ghost” on top. They take under 10 minutes to make and are perfect for Halloween or any time I want a cute and simple treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick and doesn’t require baking, yet it still looks festive and fun. I can sneak in yogurt and fruit to make it feel a bit healthier, and the kids (or guests) have a blast helping me decorate marshmallow ghosts. It’s playful, simple, and makes a great last‑minute holiday dessert or snack.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ cups vanilla yogurt
½ cup granola
½ cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Marshmallows
Chocolate chips
Directions
Layer It Up In two glasses or bowls, I start with a layer of vanilla yogurt, then sprinkle in some granola, and top with fresh berries. I repeat the layers if I want taller parfaits.
Make the Ghosts I take a few marshmallows and press chocolate chips into them to form eyes and a mouth. If the chips don’t stick easily, I poke a small hole first with a toothpick.
Assemble & Haunt I place the marshmallow ghosts right on top of the parfaits. Suddenly, the snack looks like it came from a haunted kitchen.
Serve Immediately These are best enjoyed right away while the granola is still crunchy and the ghosts look their spookiest.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Variations
I like using Greek yogurt instead of vanilla yogurt for extra creaminess and protein. If it’s too tart, I add a drizzle of honey.
Sometimes I swap granola with crushed graham crackers, cookies, or cereal for a different flavor and texture.
For a spooky twist, I use blackberries or pomegranate seeds to change up the berry layer.
Jumbo marshmallows make great “boss ghosts,” while mini ones are perfect for “baby spirits.”
When prepping ahead, I layer the yogurt, granola, and berries in advance, but always wait to add the marshmallow ghosts until right before serving.
storage/reheating
These parfaits are best eaten fresh. If I have leftovers, I cover and refrigerate them for a few hours. However, the granola softens quickly, and the marshmallows lose their shape, so I only add the ghosts when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of vanilla yogurt?
Yes — Greek yogurt makes the parfait richer and adds more protein. I usually sweeten it with a little honey to balance the tanginess.
What can I use instead of granola?
I like using crushed graham crackers, cookies, or even crunchy cereal if I’m out of granola. It still adds that nice texture and flavor.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can last a few hours in the fridge, but they’re best fresh. The granola gets soggy and the marshmallows can wilt after sitting too long.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but I only prep the yogurt, granola, and berries ahead of time. I wait to place the marshmallow ghosts until right before serving to keep them looking cute.
Can I make these for a crowd?
Absolutely. I just multiply the ingredients and layer them in individual cups or a big trifle dish. Decorating the marshmallow ghosts can also be a fun group activity.
Conclusion
These Ghostly Yogurt Parfaits are a festive and fun way to serve up a snack or dessert that feels indulgent but still includes fresh fruit and yogurt. I love how easy they are to put together, especially when I’m short on time but want something that feels creative and playful. They always get a smile.
These Ghostly Yogurt Parfaits are a spooky, no-bake treat layered with vanilla yogurt, granola, fresh berries, and topped with marshmallow ghosts. Perfect for Halloween or playful snacks in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
1½ cups vanilla yogurt
½ cup granola
½ cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Marshmallows (regular or mini)
Chocolate chips (for ghost eyes and mouth)
Instructions
In two glasses or bowls, layer vanilla yogurt, granola, and fresh berries. Repeat layers if desired for taller parfaits.
Make ghost toppers by pressing chocolate chips into marshmallows to form eyes and a mouth. Use a toothpick to poke holes if needed.
Place marshmallow ghosts on top of the parfaits as decoration.
Serve immediately while granola is crunchy and ghosts look their spookiest.
Notes
Use Greek yogurt for more protein and creaminess—sweeten with honey if needed.
Swap granola with crushed cookies, graham crackers, or cereal for different textures.
Use blackberries or pomegranate for a spookier berry layer.
Add ghosts just before serving to maintain texture and shape.