No-Bake Mini Cheese Pumpkin Cracker Pies Recipe

Introduction

These No-Bake Mini Cheese Cracker Pumpkins are a delightful fall treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a buttery cracker crust and a creamy pumpkin spice filling, they offer all the flavors of pumpkin pie in a bite-sized form.

A close-up view of a small pie with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, textured crust with a mix of brown and golden colors, the middle layer is a smooth, dense orange filling with a slightly glossy surface, and the top layer is a large, fluffy swirl of white whipped cream dusted with light brown powder, all sitting on a white plate against a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 cup finely crushed buttery round crackers, such as Ritz
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whipped cream
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Step 2: Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it. Evenly distribute the cracker mixture into 12 cups and press firmly to form compact crust bases.
  3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth using a whisk or electric mixer.
  4. Step 4: Add the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until creamy and well combined.
  5. Step 5: Spoon or pipe equal portions of the pumpkin filling onto each prepared crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula or spoon.
  6. Step 6: Refrigerate the mini pies for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set before serving.
  7. Step 7: Just before serving, top each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream and, if desired, a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Tips & Variations

  • Substitute the buttery crackers with graham crackers for a different flavor profile.
  • If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the pumpkin pie spice to 3/4 teaspoon.
  • Use canned or homemade whipped cream for fresh topping right before serving.
  • For easier filling, pipe the pumpkin mixture into the crust using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off.

Storage

Store the mini pumpkin pies covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled. If needed, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a small pumpkin cheesecake with three distinct layers, placed on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown, crumbly graham cracker crust packed tightly, with a rough texture and uneven edges extending upwards slightly. The middle layer is a thick, smooth pumpkin cheesecake with a bright, warm orange color, and a creamy, slightly moist texture. The top layer is a generous swirl of white whipped cream with soft, fluffy peaks, lightly dusted with a fine sprinkle of brown cinnamon powder. The background is softly blurred, highlighting the dessert's rich details. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these mini pies in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. Just wait to add the whipped cream topping until right before serving for the best texture and appearance.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth and remove excess moisture. Canned pumpkin purée provides consistent texture and flavor, making it the easier choice.

Print
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No-Bake Mini Cheese Pumpkin Cracker Pies Recipe


  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 mini pies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These No-Bake Mini Cheese Cracker Pumpkin pies are a delightful and easy-to-make autumn treat. Featuring a buttery cracker crust filled with a smooth, spiced pumpkin cream cheese filling, they’re perfect for quick dessert options without turning on the oven. Each mini pie is garnished with whipped cream and a hint of cinnamon, offering a creamy, festive bite-sized dessert that’s ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup finely crushed buttery round crackers (such as Ritz)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Filling

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1/2 cup whipped cream
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cracker crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed buttery round crackers, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring the butter evenly coats the cracker crumbs.
  2. Form individual crust bases: Line a 12-cup mini muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease the cups. Evenly distribute the cracker crust mixture into each cup. Press firmly and compact the mixture to create sturdy mini crust bases for the pies.
  3. Mix the pumpkin cheese filling: Using a whisk or electric hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the canned pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is homogeneous and has a silky texture.
  4. Fill the mini crusts: Spoon or pipe equal portions of the pumpkin cheese filling onto each prepared crust. Smooth the tops gently to create an even surface for setting.
  5. Chill to set: Place the mini pies in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the filling to firm up and develop the perfect texture.
  6. Finish and garnish: Just before serving, top each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch of flavor and festive presentation.

Notes

  • You can substitute buttery crackers with gluten-free crackers if desired.
  • For a stronger pumpkin spice flavor, add a bit more pumpkin pie spice to the filling.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • These mini pies can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated until serving.
  • If whipped cream isn’t available, cool whip or any other whipped topping can be used as a garnish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: no bake pumpkin mini pies, pumpkin cream cheese dessert, autumn dessert, easy no bake pumpkin pie, mini pumpkin cheese pies

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