📖 Instructions

1. First, let's get those strawberries ready. Hull and slice 1 pound of fresh strawberries. If they're not super sweet, toss them with 2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This process, called maceration, draws out their juices and intensifies their flavor. Don't skip this step! Seriously, it makes a world of difference. I once tried to rush it, and the parfait just wasn't the same. I was so sad.
2. While the strawberries are doing their thing, prepare your shortcake or biscuits. If you're using store-bought, gently crumble them into bite-sized pieces. If you're baking from scratch (kudos to you!), let them cool completely before crumbling. I’m using store bought cause I just don't have the time! I get them from [local bakery name].
3. Now, grab your favorite yogurt. Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and extra protein, but any yogurt will work. Vanilla yogurt is a good starting point, but plain yogurt lets the other flavors shine. I am using greek yogurt. It makes me feel good about the protein.
4. Time to assemble the parfaits! In a glass or jar, layer a spoonful of yogurt, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries, and then a layer of shortcake crumbles. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass. I like to end with a generous dollop of yogurt and a few pretty strawberry slices for garnish.
5. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a little bit of the strawberry juice from the maceration over the top. It adds a beautiful color and a burst of flavor. You could also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar, but honestly, it's sweet enough already. I like to be a little extra and dust with powdered sugar anyway.
6. Pop your assembled parfaits into the fridge for about 15 minutes. Why? Because chilled parfaits are the best parfaits! This gives the flavors a chance to meld together and the shortcake to soften slightly. If you're impatient (like me!), you can skip this step, but trust me, it's worth the wait.
7. Finally, grab a spoon and dig in! Savor each layer, each flavor, each texture. It's like a little piece of summer in every bite. And the best part? You can feel good about indulging, knowing it's packed with protein, fruit, and just a touch of sweetness. Enjoy!
8. If your shortcake is a little dry, try dipping it in a bit of milk or yogurt before layering. This helps to soften it and adds extra moisture to the parfait.
9. Feel free to add other fruits to your parfait, such as blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches. Just make sure they complement the strawberry flavor.
10. For a vegan option, use plant-based yogurt and gluten-free shortcake or biscuits. There are tons of great alternatives available these days!