Pumpkin Pie Parfaits
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever get that craving for pumpkin pie but can’t be bothered with making a whole pie? These Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are totally your answer! You get all those classic fall desserts flavors in a super easy, layered treat.
Brief Overview
This dessert recipe is like a deconstructed version of the traditional pumpkin pie , originating from American Thanksgiving desserts . It's dead easy , takes only about 35 minutes (plus chilling), and makes 6 servings.
Perfect for sharing or not, I won't judge!
Main Benefits
One of the best parts? This is a no bake dessert (apart from toasting the crumbs!). It is also packed with vitamins, thanks to the pumpkin.
These parfaits are ideal for a quick holiday desserts fix, or even just a cosy night in. Plus, they're a great make-ahead dessert , so you can prep them and chill them.
Ready to ditch the pie crust and dive in? Let's get to those delicious ingredients!
The Star: Graham Cracker Crust
First up, the crumbly goodness. You'll need k_annotated : 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crust crumbs. If you don’t have them pre-made, just blitz about 12 graham crackers in a food processor.
Then, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the crumbs, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a tiny pinch of salt.
We are going to be toasting those bad boys for some flavor!
All About That Pumpkin Spice
Now, for the magical pumpkin spice filling. Grab a 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree (make sure it's puree , not pie filling big difference!).
You will also need ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice , ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and a dash of ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
Honestly, the aroma alone is enough to make my day!
Alright, let's talk ingredients for these unreal Pumpkin Pie Parfaits . Honestly, this dessert recipe is so easy. You'll wonder why you ever bothered with a whole pumpkin pie !
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!
Main Ingredients
Listen up, here's what you'll need to whip up these autumn desserts . Don't skimp on the good stuff! We're aiming for holiday desserts everyone will rave about.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups (150g). Good quality ones, yeah? Look for that proper graham cracker smell.
- Melted Butter: 3 tablespoons (45ml). Unsalted is best.
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons (30ml).
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 (15-ounce/425g) can . Make sure it's puree , not pie filling. Big difference, trust me.
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g).
- Light Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g), packed.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 teaspoon . The smell is the key here, fragrant as possible!
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Ground Ginger: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Ground Cloves: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch!
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml). Gotta be heavy for that proper whipped cream texture.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces (115g), softened. Philadelphia is always a winner.
- Heavy Cream (for topping): 1 cup (240ml).
- Powdered Sugar: 2 tablespoons (30ml).
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon .
These are thanksgiving desserts perfection and is an easy dessert to knock out!
Seasoning Notes
Right, let's talk flavour. Pumpkin spice is key, obviously! But don't be shy with the cinnamon either. It really warms things up.
If you're out of pumpkin pie spice, mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Taste and adjust. A little pinch of salt in the pumpkin puree filling really enhances the sweetness.
Honestly, it makes such a difference. Vanilla extract in the whipped cream is not negotiable. It gives a perfect lift to this amazing dessert parfait .
Equipment Needed
No need for fancy gadgets! This dessert recipe is all about simple pleasures.
- Mixing bowls. You'll need a few different sizes.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- A small skillet or frying pan. To toast the graham cracker crust . Don't skip that step!
- An electric mixer. Handheld or stand mixer, your call.
- A spatula. For folding, you know the drill.
- Serving glasses or jars. Dessert cups if you're feeling fancy. I love using mason jars.
And that's it! See? Nothing too scary. Let's get on with the making of the parfait recipe . Honestly, these pumpkin desserts are so good.
Alright, let's dive into making these Pumpkin Pie Parfaits! These dessert cups are seriously the best easy dessert when you want something that tastes like pumpkin pie but without all the fuss.
Forget about making a graham cracker crust , we're going straight for deliciousness!
Pumpkin Pie Parfaits: Deconstructed Autumn Delight
Honestly, who has time for complicated baking recipe these days? This parfait recipe captures all the goodness of fall desserts (and especially thanksgiving desserts !) in a simple, layered treat.
We are using simple words to make the description fit what the is targeting, such as pumpkin and holiday desserts, and fall.
This is really important for people looking for that content.
These pumpkin spice parfaits are an easy dessert , perfect for a potluck or just a cozy night in. No baking recipe needed.
They're so simple even I can't mess them up, and trust me, that's saying something! Also, there is a lot of value in providing an alternative to pumpkin pie , even though everyone loves it, sometimes it is good to try something new.
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Magic
- Crush Those Crackers: Get those graham cracker all crushed! I put them in a zip-top bag and whack them with a rolling pin. It's oddly therapeutic.
- Melt That Butter: Microwave the butter until melted. Careful, don't let it explode! (Been there, done that).
- Soften That Cream Cheese: Make sure that cream cheese is nice and soft. Nobody wants lumpy pumpkin desserts !
step-by-step: Parfait Perfection
- Toast the Crumbs: Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Toast until golden brown.
- Pumpkin Magic: Whisk together pumpkin puree , sugars, and spices.
- Cream Cheese Dream: Beat heavy cream and cream cheese until fluffy.
- Combine with Love: Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the pumpkin.
- Whip it Good: Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
- Layer Like a Pro: Layer crumbs, pumpkin spice filling, and whipped cream in glasses.
- Chill Out: Chill for at least 30 minutes.
Pro Tips: Parfait Power Ups
- Toast Those Crumbs! Seriously, it makes all the difference! Important Safety information : Don't skip toasting the graham cracker crumbs! It adds a nutty flavor and prevents them from getting soggy.
- make-ahead? Yes! Make the filling and crumbs a day before. Store separately.
So there you have it, autumn desserts made easy, great for people looking for thanksgiving treats! Enjoy your make-ahead dessert ! This dessert topping is absolutely divine!
Alright, so you're gonna whip up these dreamy Pumpkin Pie Parfaits . Fancy, right? But trust me, they are super easy! They're perfect if you're after impressive fall desserts or holiday desserts .
Skip the usual pumpkin pie drama. This parfait recipe gives you all the yummy flavors in individual dessert cups . Plus, it is totally a no bake dessert (apart from the graham crackers that require minimal time!).
Recipe Notes to Make Your Parfait Perfect
Honestly, these easy desserts are pretty foolproof, but here are a few tips. They'll make your dessert recipe sing.
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Parfait Game
Okay, presentation matters. Layer your parfait recipe carefully in clear glasses. This way you get to see all the yummy bits.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream . A sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped pecans adds a fancy touch! For drinks, think a warm pumpkin spice latte or a crisp apple cider.
They're so tasty!
Storage Tips: make-ahead Magic
You can totally prep these make-ahead desserts !
- Refrigerate: Keep assembled parfaits in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover them tight. This stops them from drying out.
- Freezing: I wouldn't freeze the assembled parfaits. The whipped cream can get a bit weird. However, you can freeze the pumpkin puree filling separately. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: No need to reheat! These are best served cold. But if you've frozen the filling, let it come to room temperature before assembling.
Variations: Tweak it to Your Taste
Honestly, this is where you can go wild.
- Dietary Adaptations: Need a dairy-free version? Use coconut whipped cream and vegan cream cheese! Easy peasy!
- Seasonal Swaps: Try adding a layer of gingersnap cookies instead of graham cracker crust for a gingerbread pumpkin trifle kind of vibe! You know, the autumn desserts vibes.
Nutrition Basics: A (Slightly) Healthier Treat
Let's be real. This is still dessert. But it's got pumpkin puree , which is packed with vitamin A. Key health benefits and nutrients!.
Each serving is around 450 calories. Keep this in mind!
So, there you have it. All the insider tips to create the perfect Pumpkin Pie Parfait . These pumpkin desserts are seriously amazing and incredibly simple.
Now, get in the kitchen and get layering! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these pumpkin desserts ahead of time, or will the graham crackers get soggy?
Absolutely! The pumpkin pie parfaits can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. The key is to toast the graham cracker crumbs well, as this helps them stay crisp. Just be sure to store them covered in the refrigerator so the whipped cream stays perky nobody likes a droopy dessert!
I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Are there any lighter substitutions I can make in these pumpkin pie parfaits?
Good on you for looking out for your waistline! You can definitely lighten things up. Try using reduced fat cream cheese and light whipped cream. You could also swap some of the sugar for a natural sweetener like stevia. It won't taste exactly the same, but it'll still give you that lovely pumpkin spice fix!
Help! I don’t have pumpkin pie spice. Can I still make these pumpkin desserts?
Don't panic! You can easily make your own pumpkin pie spice blend. A good rule of thumb is to combine cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. A typical blend is 2 parts cinnamon, 1 part ginger, ½ part nutmeg, and ½ part cloves. Experiment with the ratios to find your perfect spice symphony!
My whipped cream always seems to deflate. Any tips for making perfect whipped cream for these parfaits?
Ah, the dreaded deflated whipped cream! Make sure your bowl and beaters are thoroughly chilled pop them in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before you start. Also, use heavy cream that's very cold.
Start beating on low speed and gradually increase to high, and be careful not to overwhip once it forms stiff peaks, stop! A stabilizer like a tiny pinch of cream of tartar can also help.
I'm making these for a potluck and want them to look extra fancy. Any presentation ideas?
Show off your inner artist! Use clear glass jars or parfait glasses to really showcase the layers. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could also add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.
For a really elegant touch, use a piping bag to swirl the whipped cream on top.
Pumpkin Pie Parfaits
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |