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Creamy Pumpkin Pie Parfaits Easy No Bake Thanksgiving Dessert Cups

creamy pumpkin pie parfaits - featured image

These creamy pumpkin pie parfaits are a quick, no-bake Thanksgiving dessert layered with spiced pumpkin, whipped cream, and crunchy graham cracker crumble. Served in individual cups, they deliver all the nostalgic comfort of pumpkin pie with a festive twist and minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits; for gluten-free, use GF graham crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • Pecans, roughly chopped (optional garnish)
  • Extra cinnamon or nutmeg (optional garnish)
  • Mini marshmallows (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crumble: Place graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form, or crush in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin. In a bowl, mix crumbs with melted butter and brown sugar until evenly combined. Set aside.
  2. Make the Pumpkin Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides and adjust spices to taste.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, add heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip on high speed until medium-stiff peaks form (about 2-3 minutes with a mixer, or 5 minutes by hand).
  4. Layer the Parfaits: Spoon graham cracker crumble into the bottom of each cup (about 2 tablespoons). Add a layer of pumpkin mixture (about 3 tablespoons per cup), then top with whipped cream (2-3 tablespoons). Repeat layers if desired, finishing with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crumble or nuts.
  5. Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle each parfait with chopped pecans, extra cinnamon, or mini marshmallows. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

Chill bowls and cream for best whipped cream texture. For extra crunchy graham cracker base, bake crumbs for 5 minutes at 350°F and cool before layering. Make ahead up to 24 hours; flavors improve overnight. Easily adapt for vegan or gluten-free diets by swapping ingredients. Use a piping bag for clean layers.

Nutrition

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