• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Desserts
    • Drinks
    • Entrees
    • Lunch
    • Side Dishes
    • Snacks
    • Dog-Friendly
  • Life
    • Travels
    • Gift Guides
  • About
    • About Sues
    • Work With Me
    • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
    • Newsletter

We are not Martha logo

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Life
  • About
  • Contact
  • Where I've Been
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • Recipes
    • Life
    • About
    • Contact
    • Where I've Been
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • Γ—

    Home Β» Breakfast Β» Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait

    Oct 14, 2010 Β· Modified: Aug 25, 2022 by Sues Β· This post may contain affiliate links, uses cookies, and generates income via ads Β· View privacy policy + disclosure statement linked in footer Β· 39 Comments

    Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Looking for the perfect way to start a cool fall morning? This Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait is packed with protein in the form of homemade pumpkin pie Greek yogurt and cinnamon quinoa. It's easy, healthy, and ridiculously satisfying!

    Overhead view of a pumpkin quinoa parfait in a glass with layers of pumpkin yogurt and quinoa with a second parfait and fall leaves in the background and recipe title at the top(This recipe for Pumpkin Quinoa Parfaits was originally published in October 2010, but was updated with new photos in 2018).

    I realize I won't make many friends in the blog world saying this, but I am not a yogurt person. OK, I actually have a love/hate relationship with yogurt. I love the idea of it and I want SO badly to like it, but it bores me to no end. Don't get me wrong, I always have yogurt in the fridge, but it often goes bad before I get in the mood to eat it (yes, I do need to be in a yogurt mood to eat it). The coming of Greek yogurt helped a bit and I do enjoy a good pomegranate or pineapple Greek yogurt more than I've ever enjoyed yogurt before. But it's still yogurt. And yogurt just doesn't excite me.

    However, so many bloggers have been posting photos of the yogurt parfaits they've been eating and they always look so delicious to me. And they actually make me wish I would crave yogurt every morning instead of something like, you know, eggs benedict. But I think I'm just an eggs benedict kinda gal, and that's a fact I'm just going to have to live with. Trust me, I've come to terms with it.

    Then I saw Pumpkin Quinoa Parfaits on the blog of How Sweet It Is (if you love sweets, this is your blog!) And I could not get them out of my head for days. Me! With yogurt stuck in my head! It was totally unheard of. So much so, that I knew I had to make some version of the parfaits. At the very least, it would get visions of yogurt out of my dreams, right?

    PUMPKIN QUINOA PARFAIT RECIPE

    One of the best thing about yogurt parfaits is that they're generally pretty easy. And healthy! This pumpkin quinoa parfait is no different, though it does require a couple different components. Everything can be done ahead if you want to keep everything in the fridge overnight and assemble it in the morning. Or you can even assemble it the night before and just grab and go in the morning.

    Start by cooking the quinoa, mixing it with a little cinnamon, and letting it cool. Then mix up some pumpkin pie yogurt. Yum! It's really just Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. You can add a little bit of honey or agave if you want to sweeten it up a little. Without it, this yogurt parfait is certainly not a "sweet treat" (aside from the graham cracker base), but that is totally fine with me. When I gave one to Chris, he wanted something a bit sweeter. For the graham crackers, you can simply put them in a plastic bag and crush them instead of getting out the food processor. Easy is key here!

    Collage showing process for making pumpkin quinoa parfait, including bowl of pumpkin pie yogurt, bowl of graham cracker crumbs, and bowl of cinnamon quinoa

    Then it's time to layer all the ingredients to make the most perfect pumpkin quinoa parfait. Start by dividing the graham cracker crumbs between the two glasses. Then spoon ΒΌ of the pumpkin pie yogurt over the graham crackers, followed by Β½ the quinoa. Finish each parfait off with another scoop of yogurt and top with crushed pecans if desired.  I also sprinkled on a little bit more cinnamon and some more crushed graham crackers, too.

    Head-on closeup view of pumpkin quinoa parfait with layers of graham cracker crumbs, pumpkin pie yogurt, and cinnamon quinoa with second parfait, glitter pumpkin and fall leaves in the background

     

    Isn't it pretty? There's something about starting the day with such a pretty breakfast that makes you feel like you can conquer anything. Of course, ease and taste are more important than looks and luckily this breakfast is both super simple and incredibly delicious. You don't even have to use exact measurements for the recipe if you're in a hurry and can simply throw all the components into a bowl.

    Landscape closeup head-on view of pumpkin quinoa parfait in a glass surrounded by crushed pecans, glitter pumpkin, fall leaves, and second parfait

    These pumpkin quinoa parfaits are also incredibly healthy and are packed with protein, which will likely keep you full and satisfied all morning long. They also offer a very generous serving, so you can certainly split this into two if you want. It will be just as delicious the next day!

    If I ever open up a little brunch spot (which is totally one of my dreams), I'll most definitely be serving this in the fall months. It's SO simple, but amazingly beautiful and seasonally tasty. Plus, it's nice and filling.

    Overhead view of a pumpkin quinoa parfait in a glass with layers of pumpkin yogurt and quinoa with a second parfait and fall leaves in the background

    And I actually feel quite inspired to try other yogurt parfait creations. Making this yogurt parfait did not, in fact, get yogurt out of my head. It actually made my head practically explode with yogurt parfait ideas. Candy cane. I need to do a candy cane parfait.

    Are you a "yogurt person"? What's your favorite kind?

    If you're looking for more delicious and healthy fall breakfasts, check out my Bircher Muesli and my Chai Tea Pumpkin Breakfast Quinoa. I also love these Blueberry Quinoa Pancakes from Muy Delicious!

    Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait -- Looking for the perfect way to start a cool fall morning? This Pumpkin Yogurt Parfait is packed with protein in the form of homemade pumpkin pie Greek yogurt and cinnamon quinoa. It's easy, healthy, and ridiculously satisfying | wearenotmartha.com

    Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait

    Looking for the perfect way to start a cool fall morning? This Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait is packed with protein in the form of homemade pumpkin pie Greek yogurt and cinnamon quinoa. It's easy, healthy, and ridiculously satisfying!
    No ratings yet
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Breakfast
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: Pumpkin, quinoa, Yogurt
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes
    Total Time: 35 minutes
    Makes: 2 large servings
    Author: Sues

    Ingredients

    • Β½ cup dry quinoa
    • 2 tsp cinnamon, divided
    • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 cup pumpkin puree
    • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
    • 1 Tbsp honey or agave, optional
    • β…“ cup graham cracker crumbs
    • ΒΌ cup chopped pecans, optional

    Instructions

    • Place 1 cup water and dry quinoa in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil. Lower heat to a simmer, covered saucepan, and let cook for about 10 minutes, until water is completely absorbed. Transfer to separate bowl, stir in 1 tsp cinnamon, and place in fridge to cool.
    • In a separate medium bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and remaining 1 tsp cinnamon. Also stir in honey or agave if you want to sweeten the yogurt a bit.
    • Add graham cracker crumbs to the bottom of a glass or bowl. Add ΒΌ of the pumpkin pie yogurt mixture (about ΒΎ cup) over the graham cracker crumbs. Add Β½ the quinoa. Top quinoa with another ΒΌ of the yogurt. 
    • Top with chopped pecans. You can also sprinkle additional cinnamon and/or graham cracker crumbs over the top, if desired. Repeat layering with second glass or bowl.

    Notes

    • Recipe adapted from How Sweet Eats
    Share a Photo of Your Finished Recipe!Mention @wearenotmartha and share a photo if you've made the recipe!
    Tweet
    Share
    Pin76
    Yum16
    Share
    92 Shares
    « Austin City Limits in Austin, Texas!
    Project Food Blog #5: Thanksgiving Pizza... Pie! »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Kristina @spabettie says

      October 15, 2010 at 1:05 am

      oooh, these look fabulous. πŸ˜€

      yes, Jessica is truly a SWEET inspiration, isn't she ??

    2. Vi says

      October 15, 2010 at 2:18 am

      Um, I love yogurt. So much. I'm extremely particular about it too. I don't like yogurt that is too rich and creamy or too sweet...I actually prefer sweetening my own these days since I like literally just a touch of sugar. France has the most amazing yogurt, I found my yogurt nirvana there, a brand of light, not too rich, barely sweetened vanilla yogurt. Delicious. Now, I generally make my own yogurt and add a touch of sugar and some vanilla or fresh fruit. These look delicious. I want yogurt now.

    3. notyet100 says

      October 15, 2010 at 6:42 am

      mmmmm looks so yum..

    4. Jessica @ How Sweet It Is says

      October 15, 2010 at 6:55 am

      Thanks for the sweet shout out. πŸ™‚ Glad you like the parfait!

    5. Susan says

      October 15, 2010 at 7:21 am

      I think one of my favorite things about this blog is that every single recipe is out of the norm. I love yogurt, that looks amazing!

    6. [email protected] Small Boston Kitchen says

      October 15, 2010 at 7:39 am

      LOVE this idea! I love quinoa but hadn't attempted to do any sweet things with it yet. This would be a great thing to pass off as "breakfast" πŸ™‚

    7. Lauren says

      October 15, 2010 at 8:00 am

      I saw this parfait on Jessica's blog, and both yours and hers look great! I need to try quinoa for breakfast/dessert.

      I am a HUGE yogurt fan, and my favorite is brand is Fage. I wish they would come out with an organic line!

    8. Lauren says

      October 15, 2010 at 8:02 am

      Oh... I forgot to mention: I will soon be posting a recipe for pumpkin parfaits using my vegan pumpkin pudding, homemade pumpkin spice granola, and Greek yogurt - it might just tempt you to eat more yogurt ;).

    9. Emily says

      October 15, 2010 at 8:10 am

      I saw this on How Sweet, too, and was tempted to give it a try. I'm a yogurt fan in the summer... but this time of year, not so much.

    10. Fun and Fearless in Beantown says

      October 15, 2010 at 8:15 am

      I do like yogurt a lot, mostly Oikos Greek yogurt. I'm intrigued about using quinoa in a sweet breakfast/dessert dish.

    11. sweetersalt says

      October 15, 2010 at 8:39 am

      Yum! I'm a big enthusiast of pumpkin yogurt. Lately it has been my afternoon snack topped with a couple of almonds. Love the idea of a parfait!

      Laura

    12. BostonSportsWoman says

      October 15, 2010 at 9:09 am

      Ok, I admit it too I have a problem with yogurt. (What I feel is a very valid reason) About 15 years ago I got food poisoning from that little bugger. I had been a huge yogurt-fanatic, until that day. I couldn't even bring myself to saying the word for nearly 10 years! Now with kids, and understanding the importance of yogurt in their diets, I have bought it and give it to them. They love it.
      Now, I can say the word, and I even added it to a smoothie yesterday to get a little protein, and you know what? I actually liked it again. This recipe looks so amazing! I think I'm going to give it a try, thanks Sues!
      Kathy

    13. Victoria says

      October 15, 2010 at 9:12 am

      I've seen someone do a savory pumpkin quinoa and was so intrigued, but I never considered a sweet variation!! Quinoa is SO healthy and I love finding ways to incorporate it into my diet, and dessert sounds like a fun way, haha.

    14. Erica says

      October 15, 2010 at 9:21 am

      Yes, I am parfait obsessed. A few of the waiters at Charlestons cafe (despite knowing my name) call me parfait lady haha. This one looks GORGEOUS. I saw it on Jessicas blog and have been wanting to make it ever since. My DREAM is to open a brunch & lunch cafe. Or manage one.

    15. brandi says

      October 15, 2010 at 9:35 am

      I love quinoa, but I still haven't tried using it in a sweet/breakfast dish. I need to try this!

    16. Bianca @ Confessions of a Chocoholic says

      October 15, 2010 at 9:45 am

      That parfait looks so pretty. Kinda reminds me of some of my favorite sweaters and nail polish hehe. I am definitely a yogurt person, and my favorite is Greek yougrt. Usually plain because it is so versatile but I also love Chobani Pineapple yogurt!

    17. Daisy says

      October 15, 2010 at 10:23 am

      Is it confession time? I'm not really either. Once in awhile I enjoy a Chobani, or a Fage, or a Stonyfield. But they are not a staple in my fridge or my diet! The parfait looks beautiful!

    18. MichellePC says

      October 15, 2010 at 10:49 am

      These parfaits look great, and very innovative! I used to despise yogurt, but started mixing fruity flavored versions with granola cereal (which is much cheaper than straight-up granola). Now, I am addicted to yogurt + granola - it's my favorite afternoon snack, and a great source of protein!

    19. Emily @ The Happy Home says

      October 15, 2010 at 12:35 pm

      yummy! i'm not a huge yogurt fan either, but that looks soooo good!

    20. sarah k @ the pajama chef says

      October 15, 2010 at 12:39 pm

      that is so gorgeous! i want to make this now. lately i've been enjoying pumpkin yogurt (plain yog + canned pumpkin + spices + sugar).... yum! i love yogurt, so does my husband. we each eat at least a serving a day... we have a 1/2 a shelf of our fridge (3 shelf fridge) filled with yogurt!! πŸ™‚

    21. Katie says

      October 15, 2010 at 12:51 pm

      i totally agree with you - i like yogurt, but i definitely have to be in the mood for it. this recipe sounds soo good though, i think i would enjoy yogurt a whole lot more if i ate this!

    22. Gina says

      October 15, 2010 at 12:52 pm

      Can't wait to make this! πŸ™‚

    23. Beth @ DiningAndDishing says

      October 15, 2010 at 3:47 pm

      I eat yogurt almost every day! I have kind of gone off the really sweet, flavored kind but I like ones that are lightly flavored like Siggis. Orange ginger is my absolute fave!

    24. Amanda says

      October 15, 2010 at 4:06 pm

      What a good looking dessert! That'll make a yogurt lover out of anyone.

    25. Sharlene says

      October 15, 2010 at 7:04 pm

      I knew this looked familiar! Yours looks just as beautiful as Jessica's!

    26. lynn @ the actor's diet says

      October 15, 2010 at 10:18 pm

      i am a big greek yogurt fan. i tried a soy one recently and was impressed too!

    27. Danielle says

      October 16, 2010 at 10:42 am

      This looks amazing! Pumpkin yogurt is such a great idea.

    28. Lizzy says

      October 16, 2010 at 12:11 pm

      I dont like yogurt either!! I actually never eat it unless I'm making chicken salad.... but I think I could learn to like this! Looks delicious Susie!!! Ps- I made your pumpkin tacos and THEY ROCKED!

    29. alicia Fidalgo says

      October 16, 2010 at 1:19 pm

      You caught me with this post just as I was making my grocery list. Yogurt, check! Pumpkin, check! and graham crackers....yep, gotta try this.

    30. Joanne says

      October 16, 2010 at 5:54 pm

      I used to be a yogurt girl but now I'm solely a Greek yogurt girl. Love the stuff thought I don't eat it every day (it's kind of expensive!). This parfait looks absolutely marvelous. I love anything with pumpkin. I think I'm not going to be able to get this out of my head until I eat it!

    31. Kelly says

      October 16, 2010 at 6:43 pm

      Oh my goodness, that looks amazing. I have to try it! I love, love Greek yogurt. I mix it with Peanut butter & Co. Dark Chocolate Dreams peanut butter and it makes for the most delicious treat!

    32. DianaHayes says

      October 16, 2010 at 10:33 pm

      Yogurt and granola is my favorite way to eat yogurt. I like this parfait, it would be great for breakfast.

    33. joan says

      October 16, 2010 at 11:55 pm

      I have tried so many different yogurts. I always come back to Yoplait. It tastes the best to me.

    34. sophia says

      October 17, 2010 at 1:18 am

      I agree. Not much of a yogurt person, either. I like it okay, but I can live without it.

    35. AGirlandHerCarrot says

      October 19, 2010 at 9:53 am

      This just brought my obsession of two favorite food items and jammed it all up into one! Pumpkin and Quinoa?! Get out! I will be posting this on my blog with my own spin-likely discussing the nutritional value and boasting more about its healthy qualities! THANK YOU!!!!!!

    36. Shannon says

      October 22, 2010 at 10:59 pm

      really i can't get enough yogurt so i really dig this πŸ™‚ especially since it contains pumpkin!!!

    37. Lauren says

      October 27, 2010 at 4:16 pm

      I just made - and thoroughly enjoyed - one of these parfaits. AWESOME is all I can say :).

    38. Britni says

      October 09, 2018 at 12:25 pm

      5 stars
      This looks so yummy & is very creative! Thank you!

    39. Jenn says

      October 09, 2018 at 1:04 pm

      5 stars
      This Pumpkin Quinoa Parfait is beyond brilliant! The flavors and textures are out of this world!

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Meet Sues

    Hi and thanks for visiting! I started We are not Martha to show you how to make recipes that impress without stress, including easy weeknight dinners, delightful desserts, + lots of cocktails.

    Learn More...

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • Easter Recipes:

    • Cadbury Creme Egg Ice Cream
    • Easter Oreo Bark
    • Cadbury Mini Egg Scones
    • Chai Carrot Cake Scones
    • Jelly Bean Ice Cream
    • Apple Spice Glazed Ham

    Mother's Day Recipes:

    • Shaved Asparagus Salad
    • Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
    • Iced Lavender Latte
    • Strawberry Crepes
    • Lemon Pepper Asparagus
    • Strawberry Souffle

    Popular Now

    • Basil Chicken in Coconut Curry Sauce
    • Momofuku Milk Bar's Cornflake Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies
    • Blueberry Vodka Lemonade
    • Chicken Dog Treats

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter

    Footer

    ^ back to top

    About

    • About Sues
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclosures
    • Web Stories

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work with Me

    BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY AMAZON SHOP TO DISCOVER SOME OF MY FAVORITE COOKING AND BAKING ITEMS THAT I USE IN MY OWN KITCHEN. WE ARE NOT MARTHA IS A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR SITES TO EARN ADVERTISING FEES BY ADVERTISING AND LINKING TO AMAZON.COM. ORDERING ANY PRODUCTS MENTIONED HERE ARE AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

    Copyright Β© 2022 WE ARE NOT MARTHA