Silken Pumpkin Indulgence

Effortlessly Easy & Delicious Pumpkin Mousse: Your Go-To No-Bake Fall Dessert Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a light, airy, and incredibly flavorful Pumpkin Mousse! This delightful no-bake dessert is a true seasonal star, perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving feasts, or simply a cozy evening treat. If you’re looking for a quick and simple way to enjoy the classic flavors of pumpkin pie without the hassle of baking, you’ve found your new favorite recipe. Our pumpkin mousse is not only effortlessly easy to prepare, requiring just about five minutes of active mixing, but it also offers a rich, creamy texture and a perfectly balanced spice profile that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a versatile dessert that can stand alone as an elegant treat, transform into a show-stopping no-bake pie, or be layered into festive parfaits. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet sophisticated pumpkin delight!

Creamy Pumpkin Mousse garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon, served in a glass bowl.

Table of Contents

  • Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Mousse
  • Prep and Chill Time
  • Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pumpkin Mousse
  • Adaptations for Dietary Restrictions
  • Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Pumpkin Mousse
  • Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Mousse
  • Serving Suggestions & Variations
  • Storage Tips for Your Pumpkin Mousse
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Full Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Mousse

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this simple yet sophisticated pumpkin mousse recipe. It truly hits all the right notes for a memorable dessert. First and foremost, its **ease of preparation** is unparalleled. Forget complex baking steps, temperamental ovens, or lengthy cooling times. This recipe comes together in mere minutes, making it ideal for busy holidays or spontaneous cravings.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes this pumpkin mousse an absolute must-try:

  • **No-Bake Perfection**: Say goodbye to a hot oven! This recipe requires absolutely no baking, freeing up valuable oven space during holiday meal preparations like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
  • **Quick to Assemble**: The active preparation time is incredibly short – less than 10 minutes. This means you can spend more time enjoying your guests and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
  • **Light & Creamy Texture**: Unlike heavy pumpkin pies, this mousse is wonderfully airy and smooth, offering a refreshing contrast. It’s a delightful change for those who prefer lighter desserts.
  • **Rich Pumpkin Flavor**: Packed with authentic pumpkin taste, generously enhanced by warm, aromatic spices like cinnamon. It captures the essence of fall in every spoonful.
  • **Versatile Serving Options**: This mousse is incredibly adaptable. Enjoy it plain as an elegant dessert, use it as a decadent filling for no-bake pies, or layer it into festive parfaits. The possibilities are endless!
  • **Naturally Gluten-Free**: As written, the recipe is inherently gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without the need for complex substitutions. (Always double-check ingredient labels for certified gluten-free products if allergies are severe).
  • **Make-Ahead Friendly**: It requires several hours of chilling, making it a perfect dessert to prepare a day or even two days in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen and the mousse to achieve optimal texture, reducing last-minute stress.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this pumpkin mousse recipe guarantees delicious results every time. It’s an impressive dessert that requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to savor the moment.

⏲️ Prep and Chill Time

One of the many charms of this pumpkin mousse is its minimal active preparation time. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can whip this up! The actual mixing process takes a mere **5 minutes**, making it one of the fastest dessert recipes you’ll ever encounter. This makes it a fantastic choice when you need a delicious dessert in a hurry, or when you want to minimize your time in the kitchen.

However, patience is key for the chilling phase, which is crucial for the mousse to set properly and develop its full, rich flavor and delightful texture. We recommend chilling the mousse for a minimum of **3 hours**. This extended chill time allows the instant pudding to fully activate and firm up, transforming the mixture into a true mousse consistency. It also gives all the lovely pumpkin and spice flavors ample time to meld together, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious dessert. For best results and ultimate convenience, planning at least a day ahead is highly advisable. This gives you ample time to prepare the mousse, let it chill thoroughly (perhaps even overnight while you sleep!), and have it perfectly ready for serving when dessert time rolls around.

A crucial step to remember is thawing your whipped topping. If you’re using a frozen variety (like Cool Whip), be sure to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to make the mousse. This ensures it’s perfectly thawed but still very cold when you need it, which is essential for achieving that signature light and airy consistency. Attempting to fold in partially frozen or too-warm whipped topping can lead to a less desirable texture, potentially making your mousse watery or inconsistent. Bottom line: plan at least a day ahead to ensure your whipped topping is ready and your mousse has enough time to chill to perfection.

🥘 Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pumpkin Mousse

Creating this irresistible pumpkin mousse requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry, especially during the fall season. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the mousse’s signature flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

  • Pumpkin Puree (30 ounces): The undisputed star of our show! You’ll need a large, 30-ounce can of **pure pumpkin puree**. It is absolutely critical to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling comes pre-spiced and sweetened, which will completely throw off the carefully balanced flavors of this recipe. Always look for cans that explicitly state “100% Pure Pumpkin” on the label. Pure pumpkin puree provides the earthy, naturally sweet, and comforting base flavor that defines this beloved autumn dessert.
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (Two 3.4-ounce boxes): This is our secret weapon for achieving a perfectly set, smooth, and stable mousse without any baking. Two standard-sized (3.4-ounce) boxes of **instant vanilla pudding mix** are needed. Please ensure it’s the instant variety, as cook-and-serve pudding will not thicken properly in this no-bake application and will yield disappointing results. The vanilla flavor beautifully complements the pumpkin, and its rapid-setting properties provide the ideal mousse-like consistency.
  • Milk (¼ cup): A quarter cup of **milk** is essential to help activate the instant pudding mix and bring the entire mixture together into a wonderfully creamy consistency. While the recipe is quite forgiving, using whole milk will yield a slightly richer and more decadent result. However, 2% milk or even skim milk can also be used successfully without a significant impact on the final texture. For a dairy-free adaptation, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk work exceptionally well.
  • Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): To enhance the inherent warmth and classic spice notes of the pumpkin, one teaspoon of **ground cinnamon** is incorporated. Cinnamon is a timeless companion to pumpkin, bringing out its natural sweetness and adding a layer of comforting aroma and depth. If you prefer a more complex and robust spice profile, feel free to substitute or add a touch of pumpkin pie spice blend, which typically includes other autumnal favorites like ground nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Adjust to your personal preference!
  • Whipped Topping (4 cups, thawed): Four cups of **thawed whipped topping** (such as Cool Whip) are gently folded into the pumpkin mixture to create that iconic light, airy, and fluffy texture characteristic of a true mousse. It adds essential volume, a delicate sweetness, and a subtle richness without making the dessert feel heavy. If you prefer to avoid store-bought options, you can certainly whip your own heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Just ensure your homemade whipped cream is very well-chilled before carefully folding it into the pumpkin base to maintain the desired airy texture.

Gathering these simple, accessible ingredients is the crucial first step toward enjoying this delightful and hassle-free autumn dessert!

🌾 Adaptations for Dietary Restrictions

One of the many appealing aspects of this pumpkin mousse recipe is how naturally accommodating it is to certain dietary needs. As originally written, this recipe is both **gluten-free** and **vegetarian**, making it an excellent choice for a wide array of guests at your next gathering. This means fewer worries about specialized ingredients or complex modifications for most common dietary considerations.

Here’s a deeper look into its dietary benefits and potential adaptations:

Naturally Gluten-Free

The core ingredients – pure pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, ground cinnamon, and whipped topping – are typically gluten-free. Most reputable brands of instant pudding mixes are formulated without gluten-containing ingredients, but it’s always a good practice to double-check the product label to ensure no hidden gluten-containing components or “may contain” cross-contamination warnings, especially if dealing with severe allergies or celiac disease. Similarly, popular brands of whipped topping are generally gluten-free. This inherent gluten-free nature means you can confidently enjoy this creamy dessert without worrying about gluten, making it a safe and delicious option for those with celiac disease or general gluten sensitivities.

Vegetarian-Friendly

This recipe contains no meat, poultry, fish, or other animal products besides dairy, making it perfectly suitable for vegetarians. The primary dairy component comes from the milk and the whipped topping. For those who also consume dairy, this recipe fits seamlessly into a vegetarian diet.

Dairy-Free (Vegan) Adaptation

For those following a dairy-free or strict vegan diet, this pumpkin mousse can be effortlessly adapted with just a couple of simple substitutions, without compromising on taste or texture:

  • Milk Substitution: Replace the regular dairy milk with an unsweetened plant-based milk. Excellent choices include unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, all of which will work well with the instant pudding mix. If you opt for full-fat canned coconut milk, be aware that it may impart a subtle coconut flavor, which some might enjoy as an extra tropical twist to the pumpkin.
  • Whipped Topping Substitution: Substitute traditional whipped topping (which typically contains dairy) with a plant-based whipped topping. Many brands now offer readily available coconut-based, almond-based, or soy-based whipped toppings that perform identically to their dairy counterparts and are perfect for folding. Alternatively, for a truly homemade vegan option, you can make your own coconut whipped cream: chill a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight in the refrigerator, scoop out the solid cream part (discarding any liquid), and whip it with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Ensure it’s very cold before folding it in.

By making these minor yet effective adjustments, this pumpkin mousse transforms into a delightful and inclusive vegan dessert that almost everyone can enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions!

As a general rule, always remember to carefully check the labels of all packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements and to avoid any unwanted surprises or allergens.

📋 Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Pumpkin Mousse

Creating this luscious pumpkin mousse is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal culinary expertise. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, creamy, and flavorful dessert that will be the highlight of your fall table:

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are ready. Specifically, if you are using a frozen whipped topping, make sure it has been completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures it’s cold but soft and ready to be gently folded into the mixture without compromising the mousse’s texture. Gather your 30-ounce can of pure pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ cup of milk, and both 3.4-ounce boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire contents of the 30-ounce can of pure pumpkin puree, the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, the ¼ cup of milk, and the dry powder from both 3.4-ounce boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix. It’s important to add the dry pudding mix directly to the pumpkin mixture, as adding it to milk first would make a thicker pudding rather than a mousse base.
  3. Beat Until Well Blended: Using an electric beater (either a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment), beat the pumpkin mixture on medium speed for approximately two minutes. Continue beating until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined, the mixture is smooth, and there are no lumps or dry streaks of pudding mix remaining. You will notice the mixture starting to thicken as the instant pudding mix begins to activate. Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.
  4. Gently Fold in Whipped Topping: This is a crucial step for achieving the light, airy, and fluffy texture that defines a true mousse. Add the 4 cups of thawed (and still very cold) whipped topping to your thickened pumpkin mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture. The key here is to use a light, upward motion, repeatedly turning the mixture over itself, to incorporate the whipped topping without deflating the air you’ve just introduced. Continue folding until the mixture is thoroughly blended and uniform in color and consistency, with no visible streaks of plain whipped topping remaining. Be careful not to overmix, as this can reduce the mousse’s airy quality.
  5. Portion and Chill: Once thoroughly mixed, carefully transfer the pumpkin mousse into your desired serving vessels. You can opt for a large, elegant decorative serving bowl for a family-style dessert, or individual dessert cups, ramekins, small glasses, or even mason jars for more personal, elegant single servings.
  6. Chill Until Set: Place the filled serving dishes into the refrigerator. It is absolutely essential to chill the mousse for a minimum of **3 hours**. This extended chilling period allows the instant pudding to fully set and solidify the mousse, while also giving all the delicious pumpkin and spice flavors ample time to meld and deepen. For the best possible texture, firmness, and flavor, chilling overnight (8 hours or more) is highly recommended. The mousse will firm up considerably as it chills, reaching its optimal light yet stable consistency.

Once thoroughly chilled, your delicious and perfectly set Pumpkin Mousse is ready to be garnished and served! Enjoy the rich rewards of your minimal labor with this delightful autumn treat.

💭 Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Mousse

While this recipe is incredibly simple and forgiving, a few expert tips can elevate your pumpkin mousse from simply delicious to absolutely extraordinary. Following these suggestions will help you achieve the best possible flavor and that coveted light, airy texture every time:

  • Always Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: This cannot be stressed enough. Ensure you are buying 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sweeteners and spices that will drastically alter the flavor profile and sweetness level of your mousse, leading to an unbalanced result. Check the label carefully!
  • Thoroughly Thaw Whipped Topping (and Keep it Cold): For the lightest, fluffiest mousse, your whipped topping (like Cool Whip) must be completely thawed. Transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator at least 8 hours or, ideally, the night before you plan to make the mousse. It needs to be soft enough to fold, but still very cold. If it’s even slightly frozen, it won’t fold in smoothly; if it’s too warm, it risks separating or making your mousse watery and less stable.
  • Master the Gentle Folding Technique: When incorporating the whipped topping, resist the urge to vigorously beat or stir it in. Instead, use a rubber spatula and a gentle, “folding” technique. Gently scoop from the bottom of the bowl and fold it over the topping. This preserves the airy structure of the whipped topping, which is crucial for the mousse’s light and ethereal texture. Overmixing will deflate the mousse, resulting in a denser dessert.
  • Do Not Skimp on Chill Time: The chilling period is absolutely non-negotiable. It’s not just for cooling; it’s essential for allowing the instant pudding to fully activate and set the mousse. A minimum of 3 hours is necessary, but an overnight chill (6-8 hours or more) will consistently yield the best results – a perfectly firm yet wonderfully creamy mousse with deeply melded flavors.
  • Adjust Spices to Your Taste: The recipe calls for cinnamon as a fantastic base spice. However, this is your chance to personalize your mousse! Feel free to add a pinch of ground nutmeg, a dash of ground ginger, a tiny hint of ground cloves, or substitute the cinnamon with a full teaspoon of a high-quality pumpkin pie spice blend for a more complex and traditional autumnal flavor profile.
  • Enhance for a Richer Pumpkin Flavor: If you desire an even deeper, more pronounced pumpkin flavor, consider whisking in a tablespoon of brown sugar or pure maple syrup along with the pumpkin puree. This can subtly sweeten and intensify the autumnal notes without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • Control the Sweetness: Taste the pumpkin mixture (before folding in the whipped topping) to gauge its sweetness. While the pudding and whipped topping add sweetness, if you prefer a significantly sweeter dessert, you can whisk in an additional tablespoon or two of powdered sugar or granulated sugar at this initial mixing stage.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a flawless and unforgettable pumpkin mousse that will delight everyone who tries it!

Serving Suggestions & Variations

This easy pumpkin mousse is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions and preferences. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or a casual get-together, here are some delightful ways to serve and customize your dessert:

Classic & Elegant Presentation

  • Individual Dessert Cups: The most popular and aesthetically pleasing way to serve mousse. Spoon or pipe the mousse into elegant glasses, small ramekins, clear dessert cups, or even mini mason jars. This offers a sophisticated presentation and provides perfect portion control for your guests.
  • Garnishes Galore: A simple garnish can elevate the entire dessert. Consider these options:
    • A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top is classic and enhances the aroma.
    • Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream (homemade or store-bought) for an extra layer of creamy decadence.
    • Sprinkle with a few chocolate shavings (dark or white chocolate work beautifully).
    • Top with candied pecans, toasted walnuts, or roasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
    • A sprig of fresh mint can add a pop of color and freshness.
    • A drizzle of caramel sauce or maple syrup for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

No-Bake Pie Perfection

Transform your luscious pumpkin mousse into a stunning no-bake pie! This is an excellent option for holidays when oven space is precious, or when you just want a less fuss dessert with a “wow” factor.

  • Crust Options: The choice of crust can dramatically change the profile of your pie:
    • Gingersnap Crust: The spicy notes of crushed gingersnaps perfectly complement the warm spices in the pumpkin. Simply crush gingersnaps finely (a food processor works wonders), mix them with melted butter, press the mixture firmly into a pie dish, and chill until set before filling.
    • Graham Cracker Crust: A perennial favorite, a classic graham cracker crust offers a sweet, buttery, and slightly crumbly base that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin. Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and a touch of sugar, press into your pie plate, and chill.
    • Shortbread Crust: For a more buttery, tender, and melt-in-your-mouth base, a crushed shortbread cookie crust is a luxurious and sophisticated option.
    • Chocolate Cookie Crust: For a darker, richer contrast, consider a crushed chocolate cookie crust (like Oreos, with or without the cream filling).
  • Preparation: Once your chosen crust is prepared and thoroughly chilled (or lightly baked if preferred, then cooled), simply spoon the prepared pumpkin mousse into the crust. Smooth the top evenly. Chill the entire pie in the refrigerator for several hours or, ideally, overnight until it is completely set and easy to slice.

Festive Pumpkin Parfaits

Create beautiful, layered parfaits that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. This is particularly festive for holiday brunches, dessert bars, or individual servings at a dinner party.

  • Dynamic Layering: In clear glasses or stemmed dessert dishes, alternate layers of the creamy pumpkin mousse with a variety of textures:
    • Crushed Gingersnaps: Adds a wonderful, spicy crunch and textural contrast that everyone loves.
    • Extra Whipped Cream: Provides an additional layer of creamy decadence and lightness between the mousse layers.
    • Other Crunch Elements: Get creative with other crumble options such as crushed speculoos cookies, toasted granola, a homemade streusel topping, or even crushed Biscoff cookies.
  • Elegant Topping: Finish your parfaits with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkling of additional crushed gingersnap crumbs, a dusting of cinnamon, or a small ginger cookie on top for a truly professional and inviting touch.

Other Creative Ideas

  • Mini Tarts: Fill pre-baked (and cooled) mini tart shells with the mousse for charming, bite-sized delights that are perfect for a dessert buffet.
  • Cookie Sandwiches: Use the pumpkin mousse as a delightful filling between two soft ginger cookies, shortbread cookies, or even vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
  • Dessert Shooters: For parties or larger gatherings, serve the mousse in small shot glasses with a mini spoon for an easy-to-grab, elegant, and perfectly portioned treat.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this versatile pumpkin mousse is guaranteed to be a delightful and memorable hit that will disappear quickly!

Storage Tips for Your Pumpkin Mousse

Proper storage is essential to maintain the delicious taste, light texture, and freshness of your homemade pumpkin mousse. Here’s how to keep it at its best:

  • Refrigeration is Key: Due to its dairy content (milk and whipped topping), pumpkin mousse must always be stored in the refrigerator. Transfer any leftover mousse into an airtight container. If you’ve portioned it into individual dessert cups or a pie, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents the mousse from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the refrigerator and keeps it from drying out.
  • Optimal Shelf Life: When stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade pumpkin mousse typically maintains its quality for about 3-4 days. While it might still be edible beyond this period, its delicate texture might begin to degrade, and the flavors may not be as vibrant and fresh. For the best experience, consume it within this timeframe.
  • Freezing for Longer Storage: While pumpkin mousse is generally best enjoyed fresh and perfectly chilled, it can be frozen if you have leftovers or wish to prepare it far in advance. However, be aware that freezing and thawing can sometimes slightly alter the texture of the whipped topping, potentially making it a bit less airy or causing a minor separation.
    • To Freeze: Transfer the prepared mousse to a freezer-safe, airtight container. Leave a small amount of headspace to allow for slight expansion.
    • Freezer Life: It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Beyond this, the quality may start to diminish.
    • To Thaw: When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen mousse to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can encourage bacterial growth and compromise the texture.
    • After Thawing: After thawing, gently whisk the mousse if the texture appears to have separated slightly or seems a bit watery. This can often restore some of its creaminess.
  • Excellent Make-Ahead Dessert: This mousse is an excellent candidate for a make-ahead dessert. You can comfortably prepare it a full day or even two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This not only allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully but also ensures the mousse achieves its optimal firmness and consistency, making your entertaining much easier.

Enjoying your pumpkin mousse fresh, properly chilled, and within its optimal storage window will always yield the most delightful and satisfying dessert experience!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making and serving this delicious pumpkin mousse to help you achieve perfect results every time:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

While you certainly can use fresh pumpkin puree, it comes with a caveat. It’s crucial that your fresh pumpkin puree has a very similar consistency to commercial canned puree – meaning it should be thick, smooth, and relatively dry. Fresh pumpkin can sometimes be more watery, which might prevent the mousse from setting properly and result in a looser texture. If you opt for fresh, ensure it’s been well-drained and cooked down to a thick, paste-like consistency to remove excess moisture. For simplicity, consistency, and guaranteed results, canned pure pumpkin puree is highly recommended for this recipe.

Can I make this pumpkin mousse ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of the greatest advantages of this recipe. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. In fact, chilling it overnight in the refrigerator often enhances its flavor as the spices have more time to meld, and it guarantees the perfect, firm yet creamy set texture. You can confidently prepare it up to 1-2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, you can, and it will give your mousse an even richer, more natural flavor! If using homemade whipped cream, ensure you whip cold heavy cream with a tablespoon or two of powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until it reaches stiff peaks. It must be very cold before you gently fold it into the pumpkin mixture. Bear in mind that homemade whipped cream, without the stabilizers found in store-bought whipped toppings, might be slightly less stable over time, but it will still be incredibly delicious.

What if my mousse isn’t setting properly?

If your pumpkin mousse isn’t setting to the desired firm consistency, it could be due to a few common reasons:

  • Insufficient Chill Time: The most frequent culprit. Ensure it has chilled for at least the recommended 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pudding to fully activate and set.
  • Incorrect Pudding Mix: Double-check that you used instant vanilla pudding mix. Cook-and-serve varieties will not thicken without heat.
  • Too Much Liquid: Accurately measure your milk. Even a slight excess can impact the setting.
  • Whipped Topping Temperature: If your whipped topping was too warm or not properly thawed when folded in, it might not integrate correctly or could cause the mousse to remain loose.

If it’s still too loose after ample chilling, a quick fix can sometimes be to whisk a tiny bit more instant pudding mix (dry, straight from the box) into a small portion of the mousse, mix it very well, and then carefully fold this into the main batch before re-chilling.

How can I make this mousse spicier or add more pumpkin flavor?

To enhance the spice profile, you can increase the amount of ground cinnamon slightly (e.g., to 1.5 teaspoons) or add a pinch of other warm spices like ground ginger, nutmeg, or a tiny dash of ground cloves. A good quality pumpkin pie spice blend can also be used in place of, or in addition to, the cinnamon for a more complex and balanced autumnal flavor. For a more pronounced pumpkin taste, ensure you’re using high-quality pure pumpkin puree, and consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the pumpkin mixture before adding the whipped topping, as these sweeteners can help deepen the pumpkin’s natural flavors.

Recipe

Pumpkin Mousse garnished with cinnamon

Pumpkin Mousse

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This delightfully light and creamy no-bake pumpkin mousse is an easy, naturally gluten-free dessert perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. It’s incredibly versatile, serving beautifully on its own, as a decadent filling for a no-bake pie, or layered into festive parfaits.
AuthorMary Ann
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes

Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings
Calories 217

Ingredients

  

  • 30 ounce can pure pumpkin puree
  • 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4-ounces each)
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 4 cups whipped topping, thawed and chilled
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Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the 30-ounce can of pure pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ cup of milk, and the contents of both 3.4-ounce boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix. Using an electric beater, mix until well blended and smooth, about two minutes.
  • Gently fold in the 4 cups of thawed whipped topping. Use a spatula and a light, upward motion until the mixture is thoroughly combined, airy, and uniform in color. Avoid over-mixing to maintain the light mousse texture.
  • Spoon the pumpkin mousse into a large serving bowl or individual dessert cups. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the mousse to set completely and for the flavors to fully develop.

Notes

This mousse makes an excellent filling for a no-bake pie using a graham cracker, gingersnap, or even a shortbread cookie crust. For a festive touch, create pumpkin parfaits by layering the mousse with crushed gingersnaps and whipped cream. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate shavings.

Nutrition per serving

Calories: 217 calCarbohydrates: 41 gProtein: 3 gFat: 6 gSodium: 189 mgFiber: 3 gSugar: 32 gNet Carbohydrates: 38 g

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📌 Pin This Recipe!

If you’re as excited about this incredibly easy and utterly delicious pumpkin mousse as we are, don’t forget to save it for later! Pin this recipe to your favorite fall dessert board or holiday recipes board on Pinterest. This way, you can easily find it whenever a craving for a light, creamy, and flavorful no-bake pumpkin treat strikes. Sharing this recipe is also a wonderful way to spread the joy of simple, seasonal desserts with your friends and family, making their meal planning for autumn celebrations a little bit easier and a lot more delicious!

Pumpkin Mousse garnished with cinnamon, presented beautifully in a glass.