If you’re craving a sweet treat that captures the essence of autumn without firing up your oven, a No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie is exactly what you need. This dessert combines the smooth, airy texture of mousse with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, all nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a quick solo indulgence, this pie is simple to prepare, delightfully creamy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re new to no-bake desserts or a seasoned fan, this No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: No baking means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dessert.
- Seasonal flavors: The blend of pumpkin and warm spices makes it a perfect autumn indulgence.
- Light and creamy texture: The mousse delivers a fluffy, airy experience that’s not too heavy.
- Versatile for celebrations: Ideal for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or an everyday treat.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with different crusts or dairy-free options.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This no-bake pumpkin mousse pie features simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Every element is essential to achieving that creamy mousse with a slightly crunchy crust finish.
- Pumpkin puree: Use smooth, unsweetened pumpkin puree to get that authentic autumn taste and vibrant color.
- Whipped cream: Adds lightness and airy texture to the mousse; homemade or store-bought works well.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Provides natural sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel without granulated sugar.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- Graham cracker crust: The buttery, slightly sweet crust adds perfect texture contrast with minimal fuss.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness that ties everything together.
Variations for No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
Feel free to get creative with your No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie by customizing it to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s a remarkably adaptable dessert that welcomes fun twists and tweaks.
- Dairy-free version: Swap whipped cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free condensed milk to keep it creamy.
- Gingersnap crust: Replace graham crackers with crushed gingersnaps for extra spice and depth.
- Maple syrup sweetener: Use pure maple syrup instead of condensed milk for a natural, earthy sweetness.
- Chocolate layer: Add a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache on the crust before the mousse for a decadent surprise.
- Nut topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor boost.
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How to Make No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs and mixing them with melted butter to create a firm base. Press the mixture evenly into a pie pan and refrigerate to set.
Step 2: Whip the cream
In a chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form, giving the mousse its fluffy texture.
Step 3: Mix pumpkin and spices
Combine pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth and evenly blended.
Step 4: Fold in whipped cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture to keep the mousse light and airy without deflating it.
Step 5: Assemble and chill
Pour the pumpkin mousse into the chilled crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set before serving.
Pro Tips for Making No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
- Use chilled bowls and beaters: Keeping your mixing tools cold helps the cream whip faster and hold its shape.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in whipped cream to preserve airiness in the mousse.
- Let it chill long enough: The pie needs adequate refrigeration time to firm up properly and combine the flavors.
- Use fresh pumpkin pie spice: Freshly ground spices bring out the best aroma and taste.
- Choose a sturdy crust: A well-packed graham cracker crust prevents sogginess and holds the mousse perfectly.
How to Serve No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
Garnishes
Top your pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a few toasted pecans for that inviting autumn vibe.
Side Dishes
Pair this delightful pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a warm caramel sauce drizzle, or fresh fruit like sliced pears for an elevated dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual mousse portions in small glasses with crushed crust at the bottom, create layered parfaits, or use mini gluten-free crusts for fun, bite-sized pies perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Note that texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Reheating
This no-bake mousse is best served chilled, so avoid reheating. If you prefer a softer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and saves time, just ensure it’s plain pumpkin puree without added sugar or spices.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The basic mousse is gluten-free, but traditional graham cracker crusts do contain gluten. Use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute with crushed nuts for the crust.
Can I make this pie vegan?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of whipped cream and a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.
How long does it take to set?
Chilling the pie for at least 4 hours is ideal, but overnight gives the best, firm texture and flavor meld.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Simply double ingredients and use a larger pie dish or multiple smaller ones for sharing with more friends and family.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie is a must-try for anyone who loves easy, flavorful desserts that celebrate the taste of fall. Its luscious texture, seasonal spices, and effortless prep make it a star at any table. Give this recipe a go and watch it become your go-to pumpkin treat year after year!
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No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free (use gluten-free crust alternatives)
Description
No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie is a creamy, airy dessert capturing the warm flavors of autumn in a crunchy graham cracker crust. With effortless preparation and no oven needed, it’s perfect for cozy fall gatherings or an easy solo treat. This light and fluffy mousse blends pumpkin puree, warm spices, and whipped cream into a deliciously smooth pie that’s customizable and sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full crackers)
- 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Mousse Filling
- 1 cup smooth, unsweetened pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix them thoroughly with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie pan. Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
- Whip the cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, creating a light and airy texture essential for the mousse.
- Mix pumpkin and spices: In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture using a spatula, carefully combining to maintain the mousse’s fluffy texture without deflating it.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the pumpkin mousse filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top evenly. Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set fully before serving.
Notes
- Use chilled bowls and beaters to help whip the cream faster and keep it stable.
- Fold whipped cream gently into the pumpkin mixture to preserve the airy texture.
- Allow sufficient chilling time for the pie to firm up and for flavors to meld.
- Use fresh pumpkin pie spice for the best aroma and flavor.
- Ensure the crust is well-packed to prevent sogginess and support the mousse.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg