Creamy Pumpkin Dessert with Ginger Snap Crust
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because today we’re diving headfirst into something so ridiculously good, it might just make you forget about that pile of laundry mocking you from the corner. We’re talking about Creamy Pumpkin Dessert with Ginger Snap Crust, and no, it’s not just for Thanksgiving anymore. This glorious concoction is basically a pumpkin pie that went to a fancy party, ditched the pie plate, and decided to live its best life in a square dish with a crunchy, spicy ginger snap makeover. Why should you try it? Because life’s too short for bland desserts, and frankly, you deserve a win that doesn’t involve wrestling a toddler into their pajamas.
The first time I attempted this dessert, it was a “surprise!” for my husband. The surprise was mostly for me when I realized I’d completely forgotten to buy ginger snaps. So, naturally, I tried to “ginger-ize” some plain vanilla wafers with a questionable amount of ground ginger and a sprinkle of… well, hope. My husband took one bite, looked at me with the kind of expression usually reserved for finding a rogue sock in the fridge, and just said, “Honey… what *is* this?” My kids, bless their honest little hearts, simply called it “spicy dust pie.” Lesson learned: just buy the ginger snaps. Or don’t, and tell everyone it’s “deconstructed deconstructed.” Your call.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Dessert with Ginger Snap Crust
- It’s basically pumpkin pie without the emotional baggage of wrestling a raw crust into submission.
- That ginger snap crust? It’s crunchy, spicy, and hides all your mistakes (culinary or otherwise).
- It’s socially acceptable to eat for breakfast if you call it “pumpkin spice yogurt parfait” and use a large spoon.
- Requires minimal actual baking skills, maximum bragging rights. You’ll look like a culinary genius, trust me.
- It’s the perfect excuse to buy a fancy serving dish you’ll use once a year. Or, you know, just use the pan it bakes in. No judgment here.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Crust Crash Course: Buy pre-crushed ginger snap crumbs. Or just smash the cookies in the bag with a rolling pin while muttering about your day. Therapy and dessert, all in one.
- No-Wash Wonder: Press the crust directly into a foil-lined baking dish. Peel off the foil to serve, toss, and pretend the dishes magically cleaned themselves. My secret weapon against the dreaded “pile of doom.”
- Instant Gratification: Use a store-bought can of pumpkin pie mix instead of pure pumpkin puree and all the separate spices. Shhh, I won’t tell if you don’t. Your secret is safe with me (and everyone else who does this).
- The “Clean Spoon” Myth: If you’re tasting, just use the same spoon. It’s for *you*. Who’s judging? (Hint: it’s not me).
Serving Ideas
- The Classic: A giant dollop of whipped cream, because calories don’t count when it’s pumpkin season. It’s science.
- Boozy Upgrade: A shot of espresso or a glass of bourbon. For the adults. Especially if the kids were *particularly* enthusiastic today.
- Keep it Simple: Honestly? Just a fork. Maybe a small plate if you’re feeling fancy. This dessert is a star on its own.
- Brunch Dish: Serve it alongside a mimosa. It’s basically a fancy breakfast casserole, right? Right.
What to Serve It With
Tips & Mistakes
Storage Tips
Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap – unless you enjoy pumpkin-scented everything else in your fridge. Been there, done that, bought the scented air freshener.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts. Feeling wild? Use Biscoff cookies for the crust instead of ginger snaps. Or add a layer of cream cheese frosting. Go big or go home, folks. It’s your kitchen, your rules (mostly).
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Frequently Asked Questions

Creamy Pumpkin Dessert with Ginger Snap Crust
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 cups ginger snap cookies, crushed Use a food processor for a fine crumb.
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Make sure it’s not too hot.
- 15 oz canned pumpkin puree Plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1.5 cups cream cheese, softened Let it sit at room temperature before use.
- 2 cups whipped cream For a lighter texture, fold gently.
- 1 cup sugar Adjust based on preference for sweetness.
- 2 tsp pumpkin spice You can use cinnamon if you prefer.
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the crushed ginger snap cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until combined.
- Fold in the whipped cream, gently mixing to keep it airy.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let it cool for a bit, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
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“New favorite here — so flavorful. sweet treat was spot on.”
“Made this last night and it was turned out amazing. Loved how the creamy came together.”
“Super easy and turned out amazing! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and so flavorful results. Perfect for busy nights.”
