Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Parfait with Maple Whipped Cream

Fall is a season of layers crisp mornings, warm sunlight, and the gentle unfolding of color. This Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Parfait mirrors that beauty: rich pumpkin custard, buttery pecans, tender cake crumbs, and a cloud of maple-sweetened whipped cream, all layered into a visually stunning, soul-soothing dessert.

Each spoonful is a balance of spice, sweetness, and texture comforting yet elegant, simple yet unforgettable. Perfect for a morning treat, a fall brunch, or a cozy dessert after dinner.

Affirmation for the Moment

“I savor each layer of life, knowing every moment is a gift.”

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Custard:

• 1 cup pumpkin purée

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup whole milk

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ginger

• 2 large egg yolks

• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Streusel:

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cake Layer:

• 4–5 slices of soft spice cake or gingerbread (store-bought or homemade), cut into cubes

For the Maple Whipped Cream:

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Make the Pumpkin Custard:

1. In a saucepan, combine pumpkin purée, cream, milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, and spices. Heat gently until warm.

2. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly temper by adding a few tablespoons of the warm pumpkin mixture, whisking constantly.

3. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened. Cool completely.

2. Make the Pecan Streusel:

1. Mix pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Cool.

3. Make the Maple Whipped Cream:

1. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to use.

4. Assemble the Parfaits:

1. In clear glasses, layer:

   
   

   • A spoonful of cake cubes

   • A layer of pumpkin custard

   • A sprinkle of pecan streusel

   • Repeat to fill the glass, finishing with a generous swirl of maple whipped cream and a few pecan crumbs on top.

5. Serve:

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let flavors meld.

Serving Notes

These parfaits pair beautifully with chai tea, a lightly spiced latte, or even a crisp glass of apple cider. They make a beautiful centerpiece for fall brunch or an elegant dessert for guests.

Reflection from the Kitchen

This parfait reminds us that life, like dessert, is best experienced in layers moments of sweetness, richness, and crunch all coexisting beautifully. Each bite is an invitation to pause, reflect, and savor the present.