Few desserts capture the cozy charm of autumn as effortlessly as Pumpkin Pie in a Jar. All the nostalgia of a classic pumpkin pie is layered into a single-serve jar: velvety spiced pumpkin filling, buttery cookie crumbs, and pillows of whipped cream. It’s the kind of dessert that feels rustic yet elegant, perfect for entertaining, gifting, or simply savoring after a crisp fall day.
I first tasted Pumpkin Pie in a Jar at a harvest festival where vendors handed out tiny mason jars filled with layered desserts like edible souvenirs. The portability, the presentation, and the pure comfort in each spoonful made it unforgettable. This recipe honors that charm while keeping things easy and customizable: no baking required, minimal dishes, and flavors that shine brightly with each layer.
Below you’ll find a complete Rank Math–optimized guide, including an easy recipe card, substitutions, pro tips, troubleshooting notes, and perfect pairing ideas, to help you make the best Pumpkin Pie in a Jar every time.
Table of Contents
Pumpkin Pie in a Jar Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 jars
Estimated Calories: ~315 per jar
Ingredients
Crust Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch fine sea salt
Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Gingersnap crumbs or cinnamon sprinkle
(Insert ingredient flat-lay image: pumpkin purée, cream cheese, crumbs, whipped cream.)
Instructions
- Make the crust layer. Stir together cookie crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until sandy. Set aside.
- Prepare the pumpkin filling. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin, powdered sugar, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt. Whip heavy cream separately, then fold into the pumpkin mixture until airy.
- Assemble the jars. Spoon 2 tablespoons crust mixture into each jar. Top with 1/3 cup pumpkin filling. Repeat layers if jars allow.
- Chill. Refrigerate at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and filling to firm slightly.
- Finish & serve. Pipe or spoon whipped cream on top and garnish with extra cookie crumbs.
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or gingersnaps.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce powdered sugar by 2–3 tablespoons.
- No Graham Crackers: Use biscoff cookies or pretzel crumbs for a salty twist.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use very soft cream cheese to ensure a silky filling.
- Fold whipped cream gently to keep the texture mousse-like.
- Layer crumbs lightly, pressing too firmly makes them dense.
- Chill long enough for flavors to blend and filling to set.
- Use 4–8 oz jars for clean, layered presentation.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours before serving.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days without whipped topping; add topping before serving.
- Freezing: Not recommended, cream cheese filling can separate.
- Reheating: Not needed; serve chilled.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Filling too loose: Whip cream more or chill longer.
- Crumb layer too dry: Add 1 extra tablespoon butter.
- Overly sweet: Reduce powdered sugar or use unsweetened whipped cream.
- Grainy texture: Cream cheese wasn’t fully softened, beat longer next time.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin Pie in a Jar is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with cozy fall flavors.
- Serve with hot apple cider or chai.
- Add caramel drizzle for extra richness.
- Top with candied pecans or toasted walnuts.
- Make mini versions for party platters.
Pairing Recipes From Our Website
Pumpkin Pie in a Jar
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crumb mixture evenly into the jars, lightly pressing to form the bottom crust layer.
- In a separate bowl, beat pumpkin purée, cream cheese, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon or pipe the pumpkin filling into each jar on top of the crust layer.
- Top with whipped cream and an optional sprinkle of extra crumbs.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
Notes
FAQs
Is Pumpkin Pie in a Jar no-bake?
Yes! this recipe requires no baking, just assembly and chilling.
Can I make this ahead for parties?
Absolutely. Assemble the day before for best texture.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Mascarpone or vegan cream cheese both work well.
Do I need to press the crust layer?
No! lightly spooning creates a better texture than firm packing.
Can kids help make it?
Yes! the layering process is easy and fun.
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yes! just strain it well to remove excess moisture.
Conclusion
Creamy, cozy, and delightfully portable, Pumpkin Pie in a Jar brings all the warmth of classic pumpkin pie without the fuss. Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner, prepping holiday desserts, or craving something seasonal and simple, this layered treat delivers richness, comfort, and charm in every spoonful. Save the recipe and make it part of your autumn traditions.