Name: Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups ginger snap cookie crumbs (Approximately 30 cookies); ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped topping, thawed; 2 cups pumpkin puree, canned or fresh; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the flavors of fall and love a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you are going to fall hard for this Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust. It’s a beautiful blend of spicy ginger snaps baked into a crisp crust that holds layers of smooth cream cheese and luscious pumpkin filling, all crowned with fluffy homemade whipped cream. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy textures that dance across your taste buds and capture the cozy essence of autumn. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a comforting treat, this dessert brings both elegance and ease to the table.

Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this dessert is surprisingly straightforward because it calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to build layers bursting with flavor and texture. Every ingredient plays a key role, from the zesty ginger snap base to the silky pumpkin filling and the light, airy whipped topping.

3 cups ginger snap cookie crumbs: These crumbs form the crunchy, aromatic foundation with lively ginger spice.
¾ cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the cookie crumbs wonderfully to create that perfect crust texture.
1 cup cream cheese (softened): Adds creamy richness and tang to balance the pumpkin’s sweetness.
1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer gently without graininess.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors with a smooth, fragrant note.
2 cups pumpkin puree: The star ingredient offers a naturally sweet, spiced body to the dessert.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth, complementing the pumpkin beautifully.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Introduces a subtle, nutty aroma that’s utterly cozy.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Works hand in hand with the crust to tie the dessert’s spice profile together.
1 cup whipped topping (thawed): Provides velvety smoothness to lighten the cream cheese layer.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfect peaks for a fluffy finishing layer.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream gently for extra indulgence.

How to Make Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mixing the ginger snap cookie crumbs with melted butter creates a moist, flavorful crust base. Press this mixture firmly into your baking dish so it holds shape beautifully after baking. Pop it into the oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely—this step ensures a crunchy, sturdy foundation that contrasts perfectly with the creamy layers.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

Using an electric mixer, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the texture is perfectly smooth and rich. This luscious cream cheese mixture is key to balancing the sweetness and spice from the pumpkin and crust, so don’t rush this step—it should be velvety and light.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer

In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These warming spices perfectly emphasize the natural flavors of the pumpkin, turning a simple puree into a spiced sensation. Stir everything until it’s fully blended and fragrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Now the fun begins! Gently fold the whipped topping into your cream cheese mixture to lighten it up. Spread half of this creamy goodness evenly over the cooled ginger snap crust. Next, layer half of the pumpkin mixture on top. Repeat the process once more—cream cheese mixture, then pumpkin mixture—building beautiful, distinct layers of flavor and color.

Step 5: Create the Whipped Cream Topping

Whip the heavy cream together with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. This fluffy whipped cream is the perfect finishing touch, adding a light, airy crown to your dessert. Spread it generously over the final pumpkin layer for that irresistible inviting look and creamy texture.

Step 6: Chill and Garnish

Cover the entire dessert with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours. This chilling step helps all the layers set together beautifully for clean slices and heightened flavors. Before serving, consider sprinkling a little cinnamon or crushed ginger snaps on top to add a pop of color and an extra hint of spice.

How to Serve Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust

Garnishes

A sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a dusting of nutmeg, or even a handful of crushed ginger snaps adds texture and visual appeal. Toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pair wonderfully to elevate the look and flavors of the dessert.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs delightfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of spiced chai tea. It’s rich enough to be a stand-alone showstopper but also plays well alongside crisp, fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, serve slices layered on individual plates with a dollop of extra whipped cream on top. You can also create mini parfaits by layering the components in clear glasses to showcase the colorful layers of the Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover dessert should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead treat that you can enjoy over several occasions.

Freezing

While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

This dessert is served cold, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer, you can let individual servings sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying their full creamy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works wonderfully and gives a vibrant flavor, just be sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe.

What if I don’t have ginger snaps? Can I use a different cookie?

Ginger snaps are preferred for their spicy kick, but you can substitute graham crackers or speculoos cookies for a different twist. Just note the flavor profile will change slightly.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

The traditional recipe isn’t gluten-free because of the ginger snaps, but you can substitute gluten-free ginger snap cookies to keep the same delicious texture and flavor without gluten.

How long does it need to chill before serving?

Chilling for at least 4 hours is important to let the layers firm up for clean slicing and to meld the flavors perfectly.

Can this dessert be made vegan?

With some adjustments—like using dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy whipped topping, and vegan butter—you can adapt this dessert for a vegan diet while keeping the creamy, spiced experience.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust is one of those dishes that feels like an instant classic the moment you try it. It’s warm, comforting, festive, and surprisingly easy to make—a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering or cozy night in. Trust me, once you experience these luscious layers dancing together, it’ll become your go-to pumpkin treat year after year. So grab those ginger snaps and pumpkin puree, and get ready to indulge in autumn’s dream dessert!

Creamy Layered Pumpkin Dessert With A Ginger Snap Crust Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A luscious and festive creamy layered pumpkin dessert with a crunchy ginger snap cookie crust, perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. This no-bake dessert combines spiced pumpkin puree, smooth cream cheese, and fluffy whipped cream in delightful layers over a buttery ginger snap crust.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
Prepare Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ginger snap cookie crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined and resembles wet sand.
Form and Bake Crust: Press the cookie mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Using an electric mixer, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Mix well to incorporate the spices evenly.
Combine Cream Cheese and Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to create a light and fluffy layer.
Layer First Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread half of the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled ginger snap crust.
Add First Pumpkin Layer: Spread half of the spiced pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Repeat Layers: Repeat layering with the remaining cream cheese mixture followed by the remaining pumpkin mixture to build layered texture and flavor.
Prepare Whipped Cream Topping: In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy and sweet topping.
Top Dessert: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the layered dessert to finish it off.
Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set, allowing flavors to meld and layers to firm up.
Decorate and Serve: For an appealing presentation, sprinkle cinnamon or crushed ginger snaps on top before serving. This dessert can be made a day ahead for convenience.

Notes

The crust can be customized using other spiced cookies if ginger snaps aren’t available.
For a fresher taste, use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned.
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.
Whipped topping can be substituted with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
Refrigerate dessert overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
Serve chilled and garnish with additional cinnamon or crushed cookies for a festive touch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking and Chilling
Cuisine: American