Pumpkin Spice Mousse Recipe
Introduction
This Pumpkin Spice Mousse is a light and fluffy dessert that perfectly captures the warm flavors of fall. It’s quick to make, requires no baking, and is an ideal treat for Thanksgiving or any cozy autumn gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- Optional toppings: crushed gingersnaps or crushed nuts, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk together for about 2 minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened.
- Step 2: Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated and the mousse is light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls.
- Step 5: Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the texture set.
- Step 6: Just before serving, garnish with extra whipped cream, crushed nuts or cookies, and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cloves to the mixture.
- Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought for a fresher taste.
- Swap the pumpkin pie spice for equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you prefer a custom spice blend.
Storage
Store the mousse in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently stir before serving if separation occurs. It is best enjoyed chilled and should be served cold for the lightest texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed before using, and the flavor and moisture content may vary. For best results and consistency, canned pumpkin puree is recommended.
Is there a way to make this mousse vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based instant pudding mix, non-dairy milk, and a dairy-free whipped topping to make a vegan version of this mousse.
PrintPumpkin Spice Mousse Recipe
This Pumpkin Spice Mousse is a light, fluffy, and creamy no-bake dessert perfect for fall and Thanksgiving gatherings. Featuring warm pumpkin pie spices blended into a luscious vanilla pudding base with whipped topping, it offers rich autumn flavors in a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal effort and no oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed gingersnaps or crushed nuts
- Cinnamon
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare pudding base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk vigorously for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add pumpkin and spice: Stir in the canned pumpkin puree along with the pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture until it is fully incorporated and the mousse appears fluffy and light.
- Chill mousse: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or bowls, then refrigerate and chill for at least 4 to 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set firmly.
- Serve and garnish: Just before serving, garnish the mousse with extra whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and optional toppings such as crushed nuts, gingersnaps, or chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- This recipe requires no cooking or baking, making it ideal for quick preparation.
- Use canned pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling to avoid overly sweet or spiced mixtures.
- Chilling the mousse is essential to let it set properly and enhance the flavors.
- Optional toppings add texture contrast and visual appeal but can be omitted for a simpler presentation.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix is key to achieving the mousse’s creamy and airy texture.
Keywords: pumpkin spice mousse, no bake dessert, Thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pudding, easy fall dessert, whipped topping mousse
