Description
These Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are a delightful and creamy dessert perfect for fall. Featuring layers of spiced pumpkin puree mixed with whipped cream, smooth cream cheese filling, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, these no-bake parfaits offer the flavors of classic pumpkin pie in a simple and elegant presentation. Chilled to perfection and optionally topped with whipped cream and pecans, they make a festive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Other
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
- Optional: pecan pieces for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Pumpkin Ingredients: 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 evenly incorporated into the pumpkin puree.
- Whip Cream and Fold: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla extract and then carefully fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture, taking care to keep it light and airy. Set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Layer Graham Cracker Crumbs: Start assembling the parfaits by placing a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of your serving glasses or jars, providing a crunchy base.
- Add Cream Cheese Layer: Pipe or spoon a layer of the smooth cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crumbs evenly.
- Add Pumpkin Whipped Cream Layer: Spoon or pipe a layer of the pumpkin and whipped cream mixture on top of the cream cheese layer to create a contrasting texture and flavor.
- Repeat and Finish Layering: Continue layering graham cracker crumbs, cream cheese mixture, and pumpkin mixture until the glasses are filled, finishing with a final layer of the pumpkin mixture. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula.
- Chill Parfaits: Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and allow the dessert to firm up for easier serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, optionally add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle pecan pieces on top for added texture and decoration.
Notes
- For best results, chill the parfaits overnight to allow flavors to fully develop.
- You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits or crushed cookies if desired.
- To make the cream cheese easier to mix, ensure it is softened to room temperature before beating.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- Use fresh whipped cream for topping for a lighter finish.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
