Pumpkin Pie Parfaits Recipe

Introduction

These Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are a delightful no-bake dessert that layers creamy pumpkin spice filling with crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for fall gatherings or Thanksgiving, they combine classic pie flavors in an easy, elegant presentation.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• Optional: whipped cream for topping
• Optional: pecan pieces for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mix well until evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and gently fold it into the pumpkin mixture, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Begin assembling the parfaits by layering graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of your serving glasses or jars.
5. Step 5: Spoon or pipe a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crumbs.
6. Step 6: Add a layer of the pumpkin and whipped cream mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
7. Step 7: Repeat layering until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of the pumpkin mixture. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula.
8. Step 8: Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the dessert firm up.
9. Step 9: Before serving, optionally top each parfait with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pecan pieces for added texture and presentation.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
• Add a pinch of allspice or cloves for a unique spice twist.
• Adjust the amount of spices to make the parfaits as warm or subtle in flavor as you prefer.

Storage

Store the parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge; no reheating needed. For best texture, consume within the first couple of days.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but it needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth before using. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and provides consistent texture and flavor.

How long can I store the pumpkin pie parfaits in the refrigerator?

They can be stored safely for 3 days in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the texture of the cream layers may change, so it’s best to enjoy them within that timeframe.

Pumpkin Pie Parfaits Recipe

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Delightful no-bake Pumpkin Pie Parfaits featuring layers of spiced pumpkin puree, creamy whipped topping, smooth cream cheese mixture, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare, these parfaits offer the flavors of classic pumpkin pie in a quick, individual dessert ideal for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pumpkin Mixture

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Whipped Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Layer

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Crust Layer

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Optional Garnishes

• Whipped cream for topping
• Pecan pieces for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Mix well until all spices and sugar are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and evenly spiced.
2. Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and gently fold it into the pumpkin mixture carefully to maintain the airy texture of the whipped cream.
3. Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
4. Layer Parfaits: Begin assembling the parfaits by placing a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of serving glasses or jars. Then, spoon or pipe a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the crumbs. Next, add a layer of the pumpkin and whipped cream mixture. Repeat these layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a top layer of pumpkin mixture. Smooth the surface with a spoon or spatula.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled parfaits for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the parfaits to set to a pleasing firmness.
6. Serve with Garnish: Prior to serving, optionally add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle pecan pieces on top for added texture and festive presentation.

Notes

• These parfaits can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining and busy holidays.
• Feel free to experiment by adding different spices such as allspice for a unique flavor variation.
• For a lighter dessert, substitute the cream cheese layer with Greek yogurt.
• Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a more pronounced or subtle spiced flavor.
• Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs if you require a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Keywords: pumpkin pie, parfaits, dessert, Thanksgiving, no-bake, easy recipe