If you’re searching for a swoon-worthy fall dessert that’s a total crowd-pleaser but surprisingly easy to put together, Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are about to become your new favorite recipe. Creamy pumpkin filling, dreamy whipped cream, and crunchy graham cracker layers nestle together in every spoonful—delivering all the cozy flavors of classic pumpkin pie, no oven required! Whether you’re gearing up for Thanksgiving, a fall celebration, or just want something special on a chilly night, these Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are a guaranteed hit.

Pumpkin Pie Parfaits Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about how these simple ingredients work together to create layers of flavor and texture that absolutely pop. Each one adds its own uniqueness to the mix, and when layered up, they turn into a dessert everyone will crave!

Pumpkin puree: Brings that unmistakable earthy sweetness and classic color that makes this dessert shine.
Whipped cream cheese: Adds an ultra-smooth tang that balances all the fall flavors, so don’t skip it!
Pumpkin pie spice: This aromatic blend brings the warmth—think cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg in every bite.
Brown sugar: Deepens the flavor with its rich, caramel notes that pair perfectly with pumpkin.
Heavy whipping cream: Whips up light and fluffy, giving your parfait that luscious, cloud-like top.
Powdered sugar: Adds gentle sweetness to the whipped cream, keeping everything light.
Graham crackers: Crushed for an irresistibly crunchy base that mimics pie crust but is even easier.
Mason jars: Ten 8-ounce jars are perfect for layering, serving, and showing off those beautiful parfait stripes!

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Parfaits

Step 1: Mix the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the pumpkin puree, softened (or whipped) cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, blend these together until completely smooth—about 2 minutes. You’re looking for a silky filling with the color and fragrance of fresh pumpkin pie. Don’t be tempted to shortcut this step; that ultra-creamy texture is the secret to “wow” factor parfaits!

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a separate clean bowl, pour in your heavy cream and sprinkle in the powdered sugar. Either by hand (for a mini workout) or, even better, with your mixer, whip until the mixture looks like soft fluffy clouds and holds peaks, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat—you want a gentle, pillowy texture that layers beautifully.

Step 3: Crush the Graham Crackers

Place the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin, or pulse in a food processor until you have fine, sandy crumbs. This is your crunchy “pie crust” that adds that classic flavor and satisfying bite between creamy layers.

Step 4: Layer the Pumpkin Pie Parfaits

This is the fun part! Set out your mason jars and layer in this order: a generous spoonful of graham cracker crumbs first, followed by a thick layer of the pumpkin-cream cheese mixture, then a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the layers so you get at least two of each ingredient per jar. Try to finish with the whipped cream on top to make them extra pretty.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Pop your finished parfaits into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes (an hour is even better) to let the flavors meld. Once they’re cold and set, you’re ready to serve! These chilled layers are utterly irresistible and taste just like fall in a jar.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Parfaits

Garnishes

A well-chosen garnish turns your Pumpkin Pie Parfaits from cute to completely showstopping. Sprinkle on extra graham cracker crumbles, a dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, or even a few candied pecans. For a playful touch, try mini edible leaves or a tiny drizzle of caramel sauce.

Side Dishes

As rich as these parfaits are, they pair beautifully with lighter fare like spiced tea, apple slices, or roasted autumn fruits. Serving them alongside a platter of buttery shortbread or ginger snaps makes for a cozy, fall-inspired dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Mason jars are classic, but you can also show off your Pumpkin Pie Parfaits in clear glasses, wine goblets, or even little shot glasses for a fun, bite-sized treat. Personalize them with ribbons around the jars or hand-written tags for party favors. Stack them up on a pretty serving tray for a stunning buffet centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), just pop the lids on your mason jars and store the Pumpkin Pie Parfaits in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, and the flavors only get better as they sit.

Freezing

You can freeze the pumpkin cream cheese layer and the graham cracker crumbs separately in airtight containers for up to a month. Whipped cream doesn’t freeze well on its own, so add fresh whipped cream just before serving for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these parfaits—Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge! Just uncover, garnish if you like, and dive right in. If you froze components, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and layer right before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Pie Parfaits ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making them the night before lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Are there any good substitutions for cream cheese?

Mascarpone cheese or even a thick Greek yogurt can be swapped in for cream cheese if you want something slightly tangier or lighter.

Can I make these parfaits gluten-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free graham crackers or even gluten-free gingersnaps for the crumb layer. Everything else is already naturally gluten-free.

What if I don’t have mason jars?

No problem at all. Pretty glasses, clear cups, or even little dessert bowls will work just fine. The key is seeing those beautiful layers!

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of making whipped cream?

You sure can! While freshly whipped cream gives a more delicate flavor, store-bought whipped topping is handy when you’re short on time. Just keep the parfaits chilled until serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something extra special about serving up a batch of Pumpkin Pie Parfaits—they’re easy, festive, and always make everyone smile. Next time you’re craving something cozy and delicious, treat yourself (and your friends!) to this delightful, no-bake twist on a fall classic. You won’t regret it!

Pumpkin Pie Parfaits Recipe

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5 from 11 reviews

Author: Ezabella
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Pumpkin Pie Parfaits are a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, served in individual portions for a perfect fall dessert treat.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Mixture:

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup whipped cream cheese, or non-whipped at room temperature
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
3 tablespoons brown sugar

Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Additional:

2 sleeves graham crackers, crushed (about 2 1/2 cups)
10 8-ounce mason jars

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Instructions

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin, cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until thoroughly combined, about 2 minutes.
Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, or in the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
Layering: Layer the parfait ingredients into mason jars in this order: graham crackers, pumpkin cream cheese mixture, whipped cream. Continue to layer to fill the jar, at least 2 layers of each ingredient.
Serve: Serve chilled.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing, Layering
Cuisine: American