Mason Jar Pumpkin Parfait 🎃 – Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Dessert for Busy Hosts
A vibrant, layered pumpkin parfait that’s ready days ahead—perfect for Thanksgiving hosting without the stress!
This Mason Jar Pumpkin Parfait is the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert hack. With layers of spiced pumpkin puree, tangy Greek yogurt, crunchy granola, and a drizzle of maple syrup, it’s a showstopper that’s made in minutes and stored for days. The clear jars let the vibrant orange layers shine, making it a stylish addition to your holiday table. Plus, it’s portable, so guests can take their dessert to go!
Perfect for hosts who want to savor the moment instead of scrambling in the kitchen, this recipe is designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor. The layers freeze beautifully, and the jars can be prepped days in advance. We’ll walk you through the steps to create this elegant, no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Whether you’re serving a cozy dinner for two or a large family feast, these parfaits will impress with their autumnal colors and cozy pumpkin spice flavor. The granola adds a satisfying crunch, while the Greek yogurt keeps it light and refreshing. And the best part? You’ll finish your Thanksgiving preparations with time to spare!
Let’s dive into the details of this make-ahead marvel that’s sure to become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups spiced pumpkin puree (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- 3/4 cup crunchy granola (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, pumpkin pie spice, crushed pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the jars. Clean 6 mason jars (16 oz size recommended) and set aside. If using homemade pumpkin puree, blend 2 cups cooked pumpkin with 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Step 2: Layer the pumpkin puree. Spoon 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree into each jar, spreading evenly with a spoon. This will create the base layer.
- Step 3: Add the yogurt. Top each jar with 1/3 cup Greek yogurt. Swirl a fork through the yogurt to create a marbled effect with the pumpkin layer below.
- Step 4: Sprinkle granola. Add 2 tablespoons of granola to each jar, pressing it gently into the yogurt for stability.
- Step 5: Repeat layers. Repeat the pumpkin puree, yogurt, and granola layers to create three distinct layers in each jar. Finish with a drizzle of 1 teaspoon maple syrup on top.
- Step 6: Seal and chill. Cover jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the layers. For best results, chill overnight.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Time-Saving Make-Ahead Dessert
These parfaits can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The layers set beautifully in the mason jars, eliminating last-minute stress on Thanksgiving day.
💰 Affordable & Simple Ingredients
With just a few pantry staples like pumpkin puree, yogurt, and granola, this dessert is budget-friendly and easy to customize for dietary needs.
👥 Perfect for Group Serving
The individual jars make portion control easy and eliminate the need for dessert plates. Guests can take their parfait directly to their seats or picnic tables.
🌟 Visually Stunning Presentation
The clear mason jars showcase the vibrant orange pumpkin layers, making these parfaits a festive addition to any holiday table without needing extra decorations.
Mason Jar Pumpkin Parfait Recipe
A make-ahead dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 2 cups spiced pumpkin puree
- - 1 1/2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt
- - 3/4 cup crunchy granola
- - 1/4 cup maple syrup
- - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- - Pinch of salt
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Jars: Clean 6 mason jars. If using homemade pumpkin puree, blend 2 cups cooked pumpkin with 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
💡 Use 16 oz jars size for generous portions.
Layer Pumpkin Puree: Spoon 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree into each jar, spreading evenly with a spoon.
💡 For smoother layers, chill the jars briefly between each addition.
Add Yogurt: Top each jar with 1/3 cup Greek yogurt. Swirl a fork through the yogurt to create a marbled effect with the pumpkin layer below.
💡 Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture.
Sprinkle Granola: Add 2 tablespoons of granola to each jar, pressing it gently into the yogurt for stability.
💡 Choose a granola with nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Repeat Layers: Repeat the pumpkin puree, yogurt, and granola layers to create three distinct layers in each jar. Finish with a drizzle of 1 teaspoon maple syrup on top.
💡 For a festive touch, sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on the final layer.
Chill: Cover jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the layers. For best results, chill overnight.
💡 These can be frozen for up to 1 month—thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Spiced Pumpkin Puree
The base of this parfait, it provides a rich, spiced flavor. For homemade, roast 2 cups of fresh pumpkin until tender, then blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Substitutions: Use store-bought pumpkin puree (look for 100% pure pumpkin) or swap with sweet potato puree for a different twist.
Greek Yogurt
Adds a creamy texture and tangy balance. Full-fat Greek yogurt is ideal, but low-fat or plant-based alternatives work too.
Substitutions: Substitute with coconut yogurt for a vegan option or sour cream for a richer taste.
Granola
Provides crunch and texture. Look for unsweetened granola to control sugar content, or make your own with oats, nuts, and a touch of honey.
Substitutions: Use crushed graham crackers, cereal, or toasted nuts for a gluten-free option.
Maple Syrup
Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture. Choose pure maple syrup for authentic flavor.
Substitutions: Substitute with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free syrup for dietary needs.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mason Jar Pumpkin Parfaits
🍁 Layering Technique
Use a small offset spatula to smooth each layer before adding the next. This prevents the layers from blending and ensures a clean, professional look.
🍂 Chilling Time
For best results, chill the parfaits for at least 4 hours. The longer they chill, the more defined the layers become.
🌾 Portion Control
Use 16 oz mason jars for generous portions. For mini versions, use 8 oz jars and halve the ingredients.
🍁 Presentation Hack
Wrap jars with twine or a ribbon for a festive touch. Add a small label with the dessert name for a polished look.
Variations & Customizations
Dairy-Free Version
Use coconut yogurt and vegan granola for a completely plant-based parfait. Add a sprinkle of vegan chocolate shavings on top.
Protein-Packed Boost
Mix a scoop of vanilla protein powder into the pumpkin puree for an extra protein punch. Top with a dollop of protein-rich Greek yogurt.
Spiced Apple Twist
Swap pumpkin puree with spiced apple puree (made from cooked apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg) for a different autumn flavor.
Mini Jar Party Favors
Make smaller versions in 4 oz jars to serve as holiday party favors or thank-you gifts for guests.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Thanksgiving turkey or ham – the tartness of the yogurt complements rich meats
- Autumn salad with cranberries and pecans – a fresh, crisp contrast
- Spiced apple cider or mulled wine – enhances the pumpkin spice flavors
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of Chardonnay for a buttery finish or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon to balance the sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, try a spiced chai tea or hot chocolate with cinnamon.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the jars up to 3 days in advance. Cover tightly with lids and store in the refrigerator. The layers will set beautifully and maintain their texture.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The yogurt may separate slightly over time—gently stir before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze the jars for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid freezing if using dairy-free yogurt, as it may curdle.
Reheating Instructions
These parfaits are best served chilled. If desired, warm the jars in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the granola layer.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My layers are mixing together. What should I do?
A: Ensure each layer is evenly spread and chilled for at least 2 hours between additions. Using a small offset spatula helps create clean, defined layers.
Q: Can I use a different type of yogurt?
A: Yes, but Greek yogurt provides the best texture. If using regular yogurt, add 1/4 tsp xanthan gum to prevent separation.
Q: How do I prevent the granola from getting soggy?
A: Use a crunchy granola with minimal added sugar. Add the granola just before sealing the jars to maintain its texture.
Q: Can I make this in advance for a dinner party?
A: Absolutely! These parfaits are perfect for prepping ahead. Store in the fridge and serve directly from the jars.
Final Thoughts
This Mason Jar Pumpkin Parfait is a game-changer for holiday hosting. It’s not only a delicious, make-ahead dessert but also a stunning centerpiece that guests will love. The layers of pumpkin, yogurt, and granola offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures, while the clear jars let the autumn colors shine through.
Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving dinner or as a festive snack, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? You’ll finish your preparations with plenty of time to enjoy the holiday with your loved ones. Try it this year and make it a tradition for years to come!
