Delightful Pineapple Coconut Mousse Parfaits – A Colorful Tropical Dessert

July 7, 2024

Pineapple Coconut Mousse Parfaits Are A Colorful Good Dessert Choice

Desserts like this are so much fun to make, especially when layering different flavors and textures. What makes it even more delightful is choosing the glassware—whether you go with elegant wine glasses or quirky mason jars, it’s part of the fun! Kids love seeing the colorful layers, and it’s a conversation starter for adults after a heavier meal. These parfaits are light, fruity, and sweet, offering a refreshing ending to any dinner party or family gathering. Plus, it’s great to mix and match glassware for a unique presentation.

Did You Know?

Pineapples, native to South America, were first encountered by Europeans in 1493 during Christopher Columbus's second voyage. Due to their exotic nature and rarity, they became a symbol of hospitality and wealth in Europe. Today, pineapples are enjoyed worldwide for their sweet flavor and health benefits, such as high levels of vitamin C and manganese.

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fruit Mousse:

1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained
1/4 cup granulated sugar, maple syrup, or honey (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1/2 cup strawberries, washed
1 cup Greek yogurt

Coconut Whipped Cream:

1 can full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
2 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

Sliced fresh strawberries for layering
Fresh raspberries for garnish
Fresh pineapple wedges for garnish

Chocolate Sauce:

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit Mousse:
In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, 1/2 cup of strawberries, sweetener of choice (sugar, maple syrup, or honey), lemon juice, and freshly grated ginger. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl.
Personal Tip: Taste the fruit mixture before adding the Greek yogurt. If it's not sweet enough, adjust with a bit more sweetener.

Gently fold in the Greek yogurt.

Prepare the Coconut Whipped Cream:
Scoop the solidified coconut cream from the top of the can into a chilled bowl. Whip the coconut cream with a hand mixer until fluffy. Add the powdered sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract, and whip until smooth and airy.
Personal Tip: Make sure your coconut milk is well-chilled overnight for the best results.

Prepare the Chocolate Sauce:

Stovetop Method:
In a small saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or butter. Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
Personal Tip: The stovetop method ensures a more even melt without burning the chocolate, giving you a smoother texture.

Microwave Method:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or butter. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

Assemble the Parfait:
Place a dollop of coconut whipped cream at the bottom of each serving glass. Add a layer of the fruit mousse over the whipped cream. Pipe or dollop another layer of coconut whipped cream on top of the mousse. Add a few slices of fresh strawberries on top of the whipped cream layer. Pipe or dollop another layer of coconut whipped cream on top of the strawberries. Drizzle with chocolate sauce just before serving.
Personal Tip: For a colorful presentation, alternate layers for more visual appeal.

Garnish:
Top with fresh raspberries, strawberry slices, and a small wedge of fresh pineapple.
Personal Tip: You can also add a sprig of mint or edible flowers for a refined touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 250, Protein: 5g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Sugars: 30g, Total Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 8g, Sodium: 30mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

Using Fresh vs. Canned Pineapple: Both options work well for this recipe. Fresh pineapple has a more robust flavor, especially when in season, but canned pineapple is convenient and available year-round. Be sure to select naturally sweetened when buying canned.
Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the fruit mousse before adding the yogurt. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add more honey, maple syrup, or sugar until you reach the desired level.
Add Fresh Raspberries: The addition of fresh raspberries not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nice tangy contrast to the sweet mousse.
Adding Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the mousse a warm, spicy note that pairs wonderfully with the tropical flavors. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
Chocolate Sauce Consistency: For a thicker chocolate sauce, reduce the amount of coconut oil or butter. If you prefer a thinner drizzle, add a bit more oil.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the chocolate sauce separate and gently reheat it before serving.
Presentation Ideas: Use clear glasses or jars to showcase the layers. You can also serve them in mason jars for a fun, rustic presentation.
Health Benefits: Pineapples are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C and manganese, which help support the immune system and overall health.
Garnish with Style: Adding fresh mint, a twist of citrus zest, or even edible flowers can enhance both the look and taste of the parfaits.
Cost-Saving Tips: Buy pineapples in bulk when in season and freeze any excess. This helps reduce waste and ensures you always have ingredients on hand for this light and refreshing dessert.

Second Story: Stove Top vs. Microwave Oven Methods of Melting Chocolate

Stovetop Method: Melting chocolate on the stovetop is a more controlled and traditional method. By using a double boiler (placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water), you prevent direct heat from burning the chocolate. It takes a bit more time but provides smoother, consistent results.

Microwave Method: This method is faster but riskier since chocolate can easily overheat and burn. To avoid this, microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one.

My Preference: I personally favor the stovetop method for more control over the melting process. It's gentler on the chocolate and results in a velvety texture.

Back to blog