This easy baked Thanksgiving dessert turns a few pantry basics into something warm, gooey, and crowd-pleasing with almost no fuss. Layering dry graham cracker sheets in a casserole dish creates a simple base that softens in the oven and becomes almost cake-like under a rich pumpkin filling and melty topping, making it a wonderful last-minute treat for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy family dessert when oven space is limited.
Serve this dessert warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a little extra holiday charm. It also pairs nicely with hot coffee, apple cider, or spiced tea, and if you are setting out a Thanksgiving sweets table, this fits in beautifully alongside pecan pie, cookies, or a bowl of fresh apple slices for a lighter contrast.
4-Ingredient Oven Baked Thanksgiving Dessert
Servings: 8
Ingredients
12 dry uncooked graham cracker sheets
1 can pumpkin pie filling, 15 ounces
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8x8-inch casserole dish or small baking dish.
2. Arrange the graham cracker sheets in an even layer across the bottom of the casserole dish, breaking a few pieces as needed to fit the corners.
3. In a bowl, stir the pumpkin pie filling and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth, then spread the mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
4. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top so the surface is nicely covered.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is hot and the marshmallows are puffed and lightly golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before scooping and serving.
Variations & Tips
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra treat, drizzle a little melted chocolate over the warm top just before serving. It gives the dessert a s'mores-style feel that kids especially love.
Picky Eater Shortcut: If your family prefers a smoother texture, spread the pumpkin layer very evenly and let the dessert rest the full 10 minutes before serving so the graham crackers soften nicely and scoop more neatly.
Nutty Holiday Twist: Add a small handful of finely chopped pecans on top with the marshmallows if you would like a little crunch. This makes it feel especially festive for a Thanksgiving dessert table.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the graham crackers and pumpkin layer a few hours ahead, then add the marshmallows right before baking so the top stays fluffy and fresh-looking.