Save to Pinterest These Thanksgiving Dessert Shooters are my go-to when I need a festive dessert that everyone can enjoy without overindulging. With creamy pumpkin, spiced cheesecake, and a buttery graham layer in each tiny glass, they make the dessert table instantly more inviting—no plates or forks needed. They are perfect when you want a showstopper sweet that feels light after a big feast.
These shooters came about because I needed a last-minute dessert for Thanksgiving and had only a few things left in my kitchen. Now my nieces help me layer them every year—there is always a bit of cheesecake filling left in the bowl for sampling.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: give an essential familiar crunch and are best when fresh. Look for brands with a toasty aroma
- Unsalted butter: holds the crumb base together and adds richness. Choose real butter for best flavor
- Brown sugar: brings caramel notes and balances the tangy filling. Fresh, soft brown sugar is ideal
- Canned pumpkin puree: delivers autumn flavor and convenience. Be sure to use pure pumpkin not pie filling for best taste
- Maple syrup: creates deep fall sweetness. Choose pure maple for a cleaner finish
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: give warmth and complexity. Always check spices for freshness by aroma
- Salt: enhances every layer and pulls flavors together. Fine sea salt works best
- Cream cheese: becomes the base of the cheesecake layer. Use full-fat for a creamier result and leave it out to soften before mixing
- Powdered sugar: dissolves smoothly into the filling for a luscious texture. Sift if clumpy
- Vanilla extract: rounds out both filling and pumpkin layers. Real extract brings out the best flavors
- Heavy cream: adds structure to the cheesecake layer. Cold cream whips best so chill your bowl too
- Whipped cream: lightens the topping and makes the shooters feel like a real treat. Freshly whipped tastes best
- Ground cinnamon for dusting: adds aroma and a seasonal look
- Chopped pecans: sprinkle a nutty crunch on top but can be skipped. Toast lightly for extra flavor and choose fresh nuts without bitterness
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Base:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and brown sugar in a bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture looks evenly moist and holds together slightly when pressed between fingers. This will give that classic bakery crust texture in every bite
- Pumpkin Layer Mixing:
- Blend pumpkin puree with maple syrup cinnamon nutmeg cloves and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the color is even and it has a smooth silky consistency. Taste and adjust spices if desired as pumpkin can vary in flavor
- Cheesecake Layer Preparation:
- In a separate bowl beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using a mixer until smooth and creamy with no lumps. In a different bowl whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time so the filling stays fluffy and light
- Layering the Shooters:
- Spoon a generous tablespoon of the crumb base into each mini glass then press down gently to form a crust. Add a thick layer of cheesecake mixture spreading to the edges. Follow with a layer of spiced pumpkin filling. If your cups are tall you can repeat for extra layers but save enough cheesecake mixture for the top
- Final Topping and Chilling:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream to each shooter then sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top for a festive finish. Scatter chopped pecans if using. Chill shooters in the fridge for at least one hour so layers set and flavors meld. This makes the dessert easier to eat and more delicious
Save to Pinterest I always look forward to the moment I sprinkle cinnamon on top just before serving because the aroma brings back childhood Thanksgivings with my grandmother who would always insist on the best spices for every dessert.
Storage Tips
Keep shooters covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. Wait to top with whipped cream and nuts until just before serving so the layers stay neat and crunchy. For a firmer cheesecake texture refrigerate overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use gluten free graham crackers for allergy needs or go with crushed vanilla wafers for a milder base. If you are out of maple syrup honey will provide a similar sweetness with slightly more floral notes. Swap in Greek yogurt for a tangier cheesecake layer or use plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream for dairy free
Serving Suggestions
Display shooters on a tiered platter with extra pecans and cinnamon nearby so guests can customize. They are wonderful with coffee or chai tea on chilly evenings. For dessert buffets smaller glasses let guests try a bit of everything without getting stuffed
Cultural and Seasonal Context
These festive parfaits borrow inspiration from classic Thanksgiving pies but make things faster and lighter. The pumpkin and spice combination is rooted in autumn harvest celebrations while the cheesecake layer gives it a modern American twist
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prepare the graham base and spiced pumpkin filling in advance and freeze separately up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whip up the fresh cream cheese layer the day you plan to serve. Layer in glasses right before your event for best results
Success Stories
These shooters have become a new holiday tradition in my family especially for picky eaters who turn down pie. My neighbor made them for Friendsgiving and everyone asked for the recipe including her picky six year old who polished off two
Seasonal Adaptations
Add gingerbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a winter flare In incorporate apple butter in the pumpkin layer for extra autumn sweetness Try cranberries on top for a tart festive finish
Save to Pinterest Chilled, layered, creamy, and full of fall aroma, these shooters make every Thanksgiving table a little more joyful. Customize toppings and enjoy right from the glass for a tidy sweet ending
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve distinct layers in shooters?
Carefully spoon each layer into glasses and gently press the graham mixture, creating neat separations for visual appeal.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and keep chilled up to a day in advance to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
- → What can I use instead of pecans?
Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version, retaining both texture and taste.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crumb layer to make the shooters suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → How can I serve these dessert shooters?
Use mini parfait cups or small shot glasses, chilling before serving for best texture and visual presentation.
- → What pairs well with these shooters?
Serve with coffee or dessert wine to complement the creamy and spiced flavors layered in each shooter.