Today is National Donut Day, and even though I don’t usually observe every food holiday, I couldn’t let this one slide. I love donuts too much to ignore an excuse to celebrate.
So I put together a simple, playful recipe for donut parfaits — layered cups that combine glazed donuts with creamy filling and fresh fruit. It’s a fun way to enjoy a donut while adding a bright, fruity balance. Here’s how to make one serving.
Donut Parfaits (makes 1 serving)
- 1 glazed donut or 4 glazed donut holes
- 5 oz vanilla yogurt or pudding (or whipped cream or custard)
- 1 cup chopped fruit of your choice (we used strawberries, mango, and kiwi)
Start by cutting the donut and fruit into small pieces — roughly the size of a quarter or dime works well. Use a clear parfait cup or glass so the layers show through. Layer the ingredients beginning with a layer of chopped donut, then a layer of vanilla yogurt or pudding, then a layer of fruit. Repeat those layers until the cup is filled. Finish with a pretty fruit garnish on top.
For a neater, more photographable finish, transfer the pudding or yogurt into a squeeze bottle before layering. That gives you more control and produces cleaner lines between layers for Instagram-worthy photos.
Photography Brittni Mehlhoff
Why this works: the glazed donut adds a sweet, soft texture that soaks up a little of the cream or pudding, while the fresh fruit brings acidity, brightness, and contrast. You can tailor these parfaits to your preferences: use plain or flavored yogurt, swap in custard or whipped cream for a richer treat, or change the fruit seasonally. Mini donut holes make this especially quick to prep, and leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for a short while — the donut pieces will soften as they sit, so they’re best enjoyed soon after assembling.
Serving ideas and variations:
- Berry lovers: use mixed berries and a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy counterpoint.
- Tropical: swap in mango, pineapple, and banana with coconut whipped cream for a sunny twist.
- Decadent: use pastry cream or custard and top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel.
- Kid-friendly: add sprinkles between layers or use colorful mini donut holes for a playful presentation.
These parfaits make a fun celebration dessert for National Donut Day, a casual brunch, or an easy party treat. They come together quickly and look charming in clear cups — and they’re a great way to stretch a single donut into multiple bites of dessert.
How will you celebrate National Donut Day? Will you try these donut parfaits or adapt them with your favorite flavors?