Name: Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese – softened to room temperature (block-style); 8 ounces Pumpkin Puree – about 1 cup (DO NOT use pumpkin pie filling); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar – packed; ¼ cup Confectioner’s Sugar; 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract; 1 ½ tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice; ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon; ¼ tsp Kosher Salt; 3 cups Cool Whip – DIVIDED & Thawed (8-ounce tub); Gingersnap Cookies or Graham Crackers – finely crushed; Chocolate Shavings

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 28 reviews

If you’re craving the ultimate autumn treat that is light, fluffy, and packed with the warm spices of the season, this Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. It’s a wonderfully easy-to-make dessert that balances the smooth richness of cream cheese and the sweet earthiness of pumpkin, all wrapped up with a cloud-like whipped topping. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or just want a decadent yet airy dessert, this pumpkin mousse will steal the show every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There are five light brown cookies with ridged patterns stacked and leaning on each other at the top left. Below the cookies, a small clear bowl holds a dark amber liquid. To the right of the liquid is a round white bowl with three spices: white granules on the left, dark brown powder on the right, and a smaller cinnamon-colored powder below the darker one. At the top right is a large block of cream-colored soft cheese on brown paper. Below that, a clear bowl contains bright orange pumpkin puree with a slightly chunky texture. To the left of the pumpkin puree is a bowl filled with fine white powder, and below that is a bowl of dense, dark brown sugar. On the bottom right, there is a bowl filled with fluffy white whipped cream. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple but essential ingredients, each chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and the stunning golden-orange color that pumpkin lovers adore. Every element plays its part, from the cream cheese that adds tang and silkiness to the pumpkin pie spice that warms the palate.

8 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy blending and creamy texture.
8 ounces Pumpkin Puree: About 1 cup; be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor.
½ Cup Light Brown Sugar: Packed tightly to add natural sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
¼ Cup Confectioner’s Sugar: Provides a delicate sweetness and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract: A splash of warmth and depth to round out the flavors.
1 ½ tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice: The signature blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that makes pumpkin desserts unforgettable.
½ tsp Ground Cinnamon: Enhances the spice profile with extra warmth.
¼ tsp Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
3 Cups Cool Whip (thawed and divided): Adds light, fluffy volume and silky smoothness to the mousse.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese

Begin by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand-held mixer set to medium speed. Take your time—about 3 minutes—to get it exceptionally smooth and creamy. Make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula to avoid any lumps. This step is crucial to ensure your mousse has that luscious, velvety texture.

Step 2: Combine Pumpkin and Sugars

Add the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, and confectioner’s sugar to the creamy base. Increase your mixer speed to medium-high and beat until everything is thoroughly combined, about 3 minutes. The pumpkin gives the mousse its signature color and earthy sweetness, while the sugars blend to create a perfectly balanced foundation.

Step 3: Add Flavorings and Spice

Now it’s time to add pure vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Continue beating at medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. The spices fill the mousse with the comforting aromas of fall, making every bite feel cozy and festive.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in 2 cups of the thawed Cool Whip using your rubber spatula. Folding is key here — be gentle to preserve the airy volume of the whipped topping. This step transforms the dense pumpkin mixture into the light, fluffy mousse you’re aiming for. Once combined with no streaks visible, the mousse is ready for chilling or serving.

Step 5: Optional Chilling

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This not only helps the mousse set to the perfect consistency but also lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

To serve, either transfer the mousse into piping bags for elegant presentation or simply scoop it into your favorite serving glasses or bowls. Top with the remaining whipped topping and add your chosen garnishes for a final flourish. This Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe shines best when shared and savored with friends and family!

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe

A clear glass cup shows a three-layer dessert. The bottom layer is a slightly crumbly, light brown crust. Above it is a thick, smooth, and creamy orange layer with small specks. The top layer is whipped white cream, placed on one side of the dessert with some orange zest sprinkled over it. Two dark brown cinnamon sticks and two curled chocolate pieces are placed on top of the white cream. The dessert sits on a white marbled surface with a light sprinkle of brown powder around the glass. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The joy of serving pumpkin mousse is all about the toppings. Crushed gingersnap cookies add a delightful crunch and spicy note that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture. Alternatively, graham cracker crumbs provide a buttery hint of sweetness, and chocolate shavings give a touch of indulgence. Don’t be shy about getting creative—each garnish adds a unique character to your dessert.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin mousse makes for a fantastic ending to hearty fall meals. Pair it with warm apple cider, spiced pecans, or even alongside a rich, dark chocolate treat. It also works brilliantly after savory dinners featuring roasted meats or vegetable-heavy mains, offering a light yet satisfying finish.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe truly standout, serve it layered in clear parfait glasses alternating with crushed cookies or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also pipe the mousse into mini tart shells for handheld bites that are perfect for parties. Another charming idea is dolloping the mousse onto cinnamon-sugar dusted plates with a sprinkle of toasted nuts around the edges for a rustic appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once prepared, your pumpkin mousse keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It’s perfect for making ahead of holiday gatherings so you can spend more time enjoying your company and less in the kitchen.

Freezing

If you want to keep your mousse longer, freezing is an option, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Place the mousse in a freezer-safe container with an airtight seal and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, but expect it to be a bit less airy than fresh.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you find the mousse too firm from chilling, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to soften before serving. This way, you get the perfect creamy mouthfeel every time.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! You can whip 1 ½ cups of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of confectioner’s sugar until firm peaks form to create about 3 cups of homemade whipped cream. It will give your mousse a fresh, natural flavor and equally luscious texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free whipped topping. Keep in mind that the texture and taste might slightly differ, but it can still be delicious.

Can I add extra spices if I like a stronger pumpkin flavor?

Definitely! Feel free to increase the pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon slightly to match your preference. Just keep the balance to avoid overpowering the mousse’s delicate creaminess.

How long does it take to prepare this Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe?

This mousse is a super quick dessert, ready in about 10 minutes of active prep time. Chilling time is optional but recommended for the best texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this mousse in advance for a party?

Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two before your event and chill it in the fridge. The flavors will only get better, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about on party day.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely believe this Creamy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe will become one of your go-to fall desserts. It’s impressively simple, incredibly flavorful, and light enough to enjoy any time you want to celebrate pumpkin season without the heaviness of traditional pies. Give it a try, and I promise it will bring smiles around your table!