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Easy No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Parfaits: The Best 10-Minute Fall Dessert

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These no-bake pumpkin pie parfaits are a quick and easy fall dessert made with layers of spiced pumpkin puree, creamy cheesecake filling, and buttery graham cracker crumbs. Ready in just 10 minutes, they’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 1/2 cups thawed frozen whipped topping like Cool Whip)
  • 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 8 full sheets)
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • Whipped cream (for garnish)
  • A light dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
  • Toasted pecans or candied walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the graham cracker crust: Place the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs with a few slightly larger pieces for texture. Alternatively, pulse them in a food processor. Transfer the crumbs to a small bowl, add the melted butter and brown sugar (if using), and stir until evenly moistened. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the pumpkin layer: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste it — it should be warmly spiced and not too sweet. If you want more spice, add another 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. Make the cream cheese layer: In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy — about 2 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula.
  4. Whip the cream: In another bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form — about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you lift the beaters and the cream holds its shape without drooping. If you’re using Cool Whip instead, simply fold it into the cream cheese mixture and skip this step.
  5. Fold it together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Do this slowly and carefully — you want to keep as much air in the mixture as possible. Fold until just combined, with no white streaks remaining. The mixture should be light, fluffy, and mousse-like in texture.
  6. Layer the parfaits: Grab your glasses or jars. Start with a layer of the graham cracker crumbs — about 2 tablespoons per glass, pressed down lightly with the back of a spoon. Next, add a layer of the pumpkin mixture — about 3 tablespoons. Then a layer of the cream cheese mixture — another 3 tablespoons. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass. I usually do two rounds of each layer for a tall, dramatic parfait.
  7. Finish with topping: Top each parfait with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. Add a few toasted pecans if you’re feeling fancy.
  8. Chill before serving: Place the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together. If you’re making them ahead, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 hours — just add the whipped cream topping right before serving so it stays fresh.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese is non-negotiable for a smooth texture. Don’t overwhip the cream; stop as soon as stiff peaks form. Season the pumpkin layer generously as flavors mellow when chilled. Let parfaits rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture. Make extra graham cracker crumbs for snacking or topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake pumpkin pie parfaits, easy fall dessert, pumpkin parfait, no-bake dessert, pumpkin dessert, 10-minute dessert

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