Save Festive, bite-sized parfaits featuring layers of creamy pumpkin, spiced cheesecake, and crunchy graham crumbs are perfect for a Thanksgiving treat in a glass. These mini shooters bring together classic fall flavors in adorable, individual servings that guests will adore.
I first brought these Thanksgiving Dessert Shooters to a family gathering, and they immediately became a seasonal favorite everyone looks forward to. The layers are simple to make but taste absolutely decadent when combined.
Ingredients
- Graham Cracker Layer: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Pumpkin Layer: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground cloves, Pinch of salt
- Cheesecake Layer: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/3 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Topping: 1/2 cup whipped cream, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for dusting), 2 tbsp chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Graham Layer:
- In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Mix Pumpkin Layer:
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth.
- Make Cheesecake Layer:
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Assemble Shooters:
- Spoon a layer of graham mixture into the bottom of each glass or cup. Press gently. Add a layer of cheesecake mixture, then pumpkin mixture. Repeat layers if space allows, finishing with cheesecake on top.
- Add Topping:
- Top each shooter with whipped cream, cinnamon, and chopped pecans if desired.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate shooters for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
Save When my nieces tried these shooters for the first time, their excitement was contagious and the shooters disappeared faster than any pie on the table.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric hand mixer or stand mixer, rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, small shooter glasses or mini parfait cups
Nutritional Information
Per shooter: 220 calories, 14 g total fat, 21 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein
Serving Suggestions
Pair these festive shooters with hot coffee or a sweet dessert wine for an extra special finish to your holiday meal.
Save Serve these Thanksgiving Dessert Shooters chilled for best texture and flavor. They make a festive finish to your holiday gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare these shooters ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the shooters and keep them chilled for up to a day before serving. Add whipped cream and toppings just before serving.
- → Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crumb layer to make the shooters suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → What can I substitute for pecans in the topping?
Walnuts make a great alternative, or simply omit nuts for a nut-free treat. Toasted coconut flakes also work well.
- → Can I make these parfaits vegan?
Replace cream cheese, heavy cream, and butter with plant-based versions to easily create a vegan version. Adjust sweetness as needed.
- → Do I need special glasses for serving?
Small shooter or mini parfait glasses are recommended for layered effect, but any small container will work.
- → How do I make the pumpkin layer extra flavorful?
Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or extra cinnamon. Maple syrup enhances sweetness and depth.