Tropical Parfaits

Name: Tropical Parfaits
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings.
Ingredients: 2 cups cold whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract; 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 teaspoon grated lime zest, optional; 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits; 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sliced almonds, toasted, divided; 1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries; Whipped cream in a can; 2 maraschino cherries

When entertaining guests, Nancy Stock of Minonk, Illinois often adds sliced bananas to this layered pudding dessert. "It makes a beautiful presentation and is good for you, too," she notes.

Ingredients

2 cups cold whole milk
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 teaspoon grated lime zest, optional
1/2 cup pineapple tidbits
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sliced almonds, toasted, divided
1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
Whipped cream in a can
2 maraschino cherries

Directions

In a bowl, whisk the milk, extract and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Stir in coconut and lime zest if desired. In each of two 1-1/2-cup parfait glasses or dessert dishes, layer about 1/3 cup pudding mixture, 1/4 cup pineapple, 2 tablespoons almonds, 1/3 cup pudding mixture, 1/4 cup strawberries, 2 tablespoons almonds and remaining pudding mixture.
Top with whipped cream. Sprinkle with the remaining almonds. Garnish with cherries.

Originally published as Tropical Parfaits in Quick Cooking March/April 2004