Mini No-Bake Pumpkin Pies Jar

When autumn starts to paint everything gold, these Mini No-Bake Pumpkin Pies in a Jar are exactly what I crave. They hit all the best parts of classic pumpkin pie but ditch the oven and fuss. I love making these for impromptu gatherings and cozy evenings when I want something celebratory without heating up the kitchen.

The first time I served these for a family movie night, everyone ended up eating straight from the jar with spoons and lots of laughter. Now it is a go-to whenever I need a dessert that feels special but does not demand all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Pumpkin puree: Brings in that authentic earthy sweetness make sure it is pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie mix for the right consistency
• Brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth to the filling look for deep golden brown sugar for the richest flavor
• Ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice: Deliver big autumn aroma freshly opened spices are more fragrant
• Ground ginger and cloves: Give a subtle zing and spice use ground ginger for ease and whole cloves freshly ground for max flavor
• Heavy cream: Lends silkiness and helps bind the pie mixture
• Egg whites: Create a fluffy mousse make sure they are very fresh for best volume
• Cream of tartar: Stabilizes the meringue so the mousse remains airy
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and body use superfine sugar so it dissolves nicely
• Softened cream cheese: Gives the mousse its rich tang use full-fat for the creamiest result
• Vanilla: Balances the flavors a pure extract makes a difference
• Mini marshmallows: The secret to that mousse’s cloudlike texture choose fresh ones so they melt easily
• Chopped gingersnaps and graham crackers: Deliver the crust crunch mix and match for spicy or mild flavor

Instructions

Make the Pie Filling:

Combine the pumpkin puree brown sugar cinnamon pumpkin pie spice ground ginger ground cloves and heavy cream in a medium bowl Mix until very smooth and glossy then set aside This step creates a sweet silky layer

Make the Mousse:

In a large mixer bowl whisk together egg whites cream of tartar and sugar Place this over simmering water and whisk constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the egg whites are warm They should reach 160 degrees on a thermometer which takes about 4 to 6 minutes When the mixture feels smooth between your fingers it is ready Transfer the bowl to your stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment Beat first at low speed increasing to high until you see soft peaks form This can take up to 7 minutes The egg whites should look airy and glossy In a fresh bowl stir together softened cream cheese and vanilla until no lumps remain Microwave mini marshmallows in a separate bowl in short bursts until just melted It usually takes no longer than 30 seconds Spoon the melted marshmallows into the cream cheese mixture Stir immediately until everything is combined and smooth Fold a small scoop of the beaten egg whites into the marshmallow base to lighten it Then gently add the remaining egg whites in two or three stages folding carefully to keep the mousse billowy Do not rush this to keep the final texture light Refrigerate about one hour to set

Make the Crust and Assemble:

Drop about 1 and a half tablespoons of the gingersnap and graham cracker crumb mixture into the base of each jar Use the back of a spoon to lightly pack it This gives every bite real crunch Spoon two tablespoons of pumpkin filling on the crust Gently smooth the top with the spoon Add two tablespoons of cream cheese mousse next Spread gently to create a nice even layer Create a second set of layers following the same steps ending with mousse on top Add your choice of toppings at this stage A drizzle of caramel extra crushed cookies a swirl of whipped cream or even a bit of shaved chocolate make these little pies irresistible Chill jars until you are ready to serve The flavors meld beautifully as they sit

Pumpkin puree is my secret weapon here It somehow turns simple cream and spices into a dessert that honestly gets better after a night in the fridge I always smile remembering everyone sneaking into the kitchen for just one more spoonful

Storage Tips

Once assembled keep the jars tightly covered in the fridge They will stay fresh and creamy for two days If you wish to prepare further ahead assemble the filling and mousse separately and combine just before serving This prevents the crust from softening

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nutty flavor swap in some crushed pecans or walnuts with the cookie crust Dairy free options work too use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cream cheese plus your favorite non dairy whipped topping If you have trouble finding gingersnaps graham crackers alone work beautifully

Serving Suggestions

Serve these jars straight from the fridge with a tall glass of milk or hot coffee For special occasions add a decorative ribbon to each jar These also shine on a Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving dessert bar since guests can grab and enjoy with no mess

Cultural Context

Pumpkin pie has deep roots in American holiday traditions but these minis nod to Southern icebox desserts where layered chilled sweets reign Combining classic flavors with a fuss free method means everyone can enjoy homemade pumpkin pie even without an oven

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in sweet potato puree for an earthy twist in spring Top with candied cranberries or cinnamon roasted nuts in winter Create a tropical version using coconut cream for the mousse layer

Success Stories

I have seen friends take these pies to outdoor picnics and they vanished before the main course For potlucks I get recipe requests from people who swear they do not like pumpkin Until they try a spoonful right from the jar

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the layers in freezer safe jars leaving out extra toppings Place lids on and freeze for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge and finish with whipped cream or sauces before serving

These little jars bring pumpkin pie joy with only a fraction of the fuss. Make a batch and savor cozy flavors wherever you share them.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you keep the mousse light and fluffy?

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the marshmallow and cream cheese mixture to preserve airiness.

→ Can I prepare these jars in advance?

Yes, the jars can be assembled and chilled a day before serving. Add toppings just before serving for best results.

→ What toppings pair well with this dessert?

Try caramel drizzle, extra gingersnap crumbs, or whipped cream for added flavor and texture.

→ Is it possible to use different cookies for the crust?

Absolutely! Substitute gingersnaps or graham crackers with biscotti or vanilla wafer crumbs if desired.

→ What is the best way to layer the components?

Start with the crumb mixture, then add pumpkin, followed by mousse. Repeat layers to showcase each texture.