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Caramelized Dulce de Leche Banana Parfait

  • Writer: Nikita Alvegaard-Struble
    Nikita Alvegaard-Struble
  • Oct 8
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 23

A Sweet Treat That Feels Fancy (But Isn’t)


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Sometimes you want a dessert that feels a little elevated without needing to pull out the mixer, preheat the oven, or create a mountain of dishes. That’s where this Caramelized Dulce de Leche Banana Parfait comes in.


It’s creamy, rich, and layered with flavor, thanks to velvety Greek yogurt, swirls of dulce de leche, a hint of vanilla, and tender bananas kissed with maple syrup and lightly caramelized. It tastes like something you’d find on a brunch menu, but it takes less than 15 minutes to put together.


Whether you're making it as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, a not-so-guilty dessert, or an indulgent breakfast, this parfait hits all the right notes.


Why You’ll Love This Parfait

This parfait checks all the boxes. It’s:

  • Simple and quick


    No baking. No complicated steps. Just a few ingredients and a skillet.

  • Naturally sweetened


    With maple syrup and banana doing the heavy lifting, this dessert keeps things naturally sweet without going overboard.

  • Creamy, crunchy, and satisfying


    The Greek yogurt gives it body, the caramelized bananas bring warmth, and the dulce de leche adds a deep richness that ties everything together.


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Ingredients Overview

This recipe has two parts: the caramelized banana topping and the yogurt parfait base. Here's what you'll need.


For the Caramelized Banana:

  • 1 tablespoon dulce de leche

  • 1 ripe banana, sliced

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup


For the Parfait Base:

  • 1 tablespoon dulce de leche

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract


Optional: granola, toasted nuts, or crushed cookies for layering or topping if you'd like to add some crunch.


How to Make It

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Step 1: Caramelize the banana


In a small skillet over medium heat, add the sliced banana, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon dulce de leche. Stir gently until the bananas soften and the sauce begins to bubble and thicken slightly. This takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.


Step 2: Prepare the yogurt base

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In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of dulce de leche, and the vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.


Step 3: Assemble your parfait


Grab a glass or jar and start layering. Spoon in a layer of the yogurt mixture, then add some caramelized bananas. Repeat until your glass is full. You can drizzle extra dulce de leche or maple syrup on top if you’re feeling fancy.


Step 4: Serve and enjoy


This parfait is best enjoyed right away while the bananas are still slightly warm and the yogurt is cold. That contrast in temperature makes it even more satisfying.


When to Serve It


This parfait is versatile. Serve it as:

  • A quick dessert after dinner

  • A special weekend breakfast

  • A fun snack that feels more like a treat

  • A no-bake option for guests that still looks impressive in a glass


It’s proof that a few simple ingredients can create something truly delightful.

Recipe Card | Caramelized Dulce de Leche Banana Parfait

Servings: 1 to 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes


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Ingredients:

For the Caramelized Banana:

  • 1 tablespoon dulce de leche

  • 1 ripe banana, sliced

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the Parfait:

  • 1 tablespoon dulce de leche

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions:


  1. Caramelize the Bananas


    In a small skillet over medium heat, combine banana slices, maple syrup, and dulce de leche. Stir gently and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the bananas are soft and the sauce is thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.


  2. Mix the Yogurt Base


    In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and dulce de leche until smooth.


  3. Assemble the Parfait


    In a glass or jar, layer the yogurt mixture with the caramelized banana mixture. Repeat layers as desired.


  4. Serve


    Enjoy immediately while the bananas are warm and the yogurt is cold. Add a drizzle of extra maple syrup or dulce de leche if you like.

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