If you’re on the hunt for a luscious, easy-to-make fall dessert, I absolutely have to share this Pumpkin Mousse Recipe for Fall Recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen every autumn. It’s creamy, spiced just right, and light enough that you won’t feel like you’re diving into a heavy dessert. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together to make something so elegant and comforting—trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat during pumpkin season!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and Creamy Texture: I love how smooth and dreamy this mousse feels—nothing too heavy, just pure pumpkin bliss.
Simple Ingredients: The ingredients are pantry-friendly and easy to find, so you won’t stress about hunting for anything fancy.
Versatile Serving: You can dress it up with chocolate chips, cinnamon, or candied pecans to suit any occasion or craving.
Quick and Easy Prep: It comes together in about 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute fall gatherings.

The image shows three clear glasses filled with three layers: the bottom and middle layers are a smooth, light orange pumpkin mousse, topped with a layer of white whipped cream sprinkled with small dark chocolate chips. A woman's hand is holding a silver spoon above the closest glass, scooping a mix of the mousse and whipped cream with chocolate chips on top. The background is a clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Pumpkin Mousse, Pumpkin Mousse for Fall, Fall Pumpkin Dessert, Easy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe, Creamy Pumpkin Dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work in harmony to deliver that cozy, spiced pumpkin flavor with a silky whipped finish. When shopping, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree—don’t swap with pumpkin pie filling since the spices and sugar there will throw off the balance.

Flat lay of a block of softened cream cheese on a simple white ceramic plate, a small white bowl filled with light brown sugar, a small white bowl containing vibrant orange pumpkin puree, a small white bowl with fine white sugar, a small white bowl holding golden candied pecans, a small white bowl with dark chocolate chips, a small white bowl with warm brown pumpkin pie spice, a small white bowl with reddish-brown ground cinnamon, a small white bowl filled with thick, freshly whipped cream, and two whole brown eggs arranged symmetrically around the ingredients, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p awthu7i m7354615311229779997 - Pumpkin Mousse, Pumpkin Mousse for Fall, Fall Pumpkin Dessert, Easy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe, Creamy Pumpkin Dessert

Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for smooth blending without lumps.
Brown Sugar: Adds rich caramel notes that complement pumpkin’s earthiness.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This classic blend is key to that signature fall flavor, but feel free to adjust depending on your spice tolerance.
Pumpkin Puree: Use the canned kind labeled 100% pumpkin for the best texture and taste.
Whipping Cream: Choose heavy whipping cream to get those stiff peaks that make the mousse airy and light.
White Sugar: Added to your whipped cream ensures subtle sweetness without overpowering.
Vanilla Extract: Just a dash brightens the whole mousse and rounds out the spices.
Chocolate Chips, Cinnamon, Candied Pecans: Optional toppings that make every bite extra special.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this pumpkin mousse recipe for fall recipe is how easy it is to customize—whether you want something dairy-free, sweeter, or a bit boozy, you can tweak it to fit your vibe.

Dairy-Free Variation: I’ve swapped cream cheese and heavy cream for coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese, and it still turns out rich and dreamy.
Extra Boozy: For grown-up gatherings, adding a splash of bourbon or spiced rum elevates the flavors beautifully.
Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a spicier mousse, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg alongside the pumpkin pie spice.
Chocolate Swirl: Folding in melted dark chocolate before chilling gives a marbled look and decadent taste that my family goes crazy for.

How to Make Pumpkin Mousse Recipe for Fall Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture

Start by beating the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice together in a medium bowl. You want to mix until the texture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed. This step is crucial because it ensures you don’t get lumps, and it also helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Add the Pumpkin Puree

Next, add the pumpkin puree to your cream cheese mixture and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix here, or you’ll lose some of that airy texture you worked so hard to build. The mixture should be smooth with a beautiful autumn orange hue.

Step 3: Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, white sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape firmly without collapsing—this step can take anywhere from 3-5 minutes depending on your mixer. Patience here pays off, trust me!

Step 4: Fold and Assemble

Gently fold about three-quarters of the whipped cream into your pumpkin cheesecake mixture. Folding is key—use a spatula and a light hand, folding from the bottom up and around so you don’t deflate that fluffiness. Once fully incorporated, spoon the mousse into serving cups.

Top each serving with the remaining whipped cream, then sprinkle on chocolate chips, a dusting of cinnamon, or candied pecans for a little extra flair. This little finishing touch adds a perfect texture contrast and makes your presentation shine.

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Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Mousse Recipe for Fall Recipe

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: I can’t stress enough how much easier it is to whip the cream cheese when it’s soft—take it out 30 minutes before you start.
Don’t Over-whip the Cream: If you go past stiff peaks, the cream can turn grainy or butter-like, so watch closely near the end.
Gentle Folding Technique: I learned this the hard way—vigorous stirring deflates your mousse and makes it dense, so fold delicately.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the mousse rest in the fridge for at least an hour enhances the flavors and texture wonderfully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Mousse Recipe for Fall Recipe

The image shows three clear glasses filled with smooth, light orange pumpkin mousse, each with visible soft swirls and layers inside. The mousse is topped with a dollop of white whipped cream and sprinkled with small dark chocolate chips. One glass is in the front and centered, with two others slightly blurred in the background. Around the glasses are scattered chocolate chips and a small jar tipped over spilling brown cinnamon powder. To the right, there is a white bowl filled with light brown sugar on a bright orange cloth with white check patterns. The setting rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Pumpkin Mousse, Pumpkin Mousse for Fall, Fall Pumpkin Dessert, Easy Pumpkin Mousse Recipe, Creamy Pumpkin Dessert

Garnishes

I’m all about simple but tasty garnishes here. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg brings out the warm spices, while chocolate chips add a bit of indulgence. Candied pecans introduce a lovely crunch that balances the mousse’s softness perfectly. Sometimes, I even add a dollop of whipped cream with a drizzle of maple syrup for extra richness.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin mousse pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced chai or coffee. For a full fall-themed spread, I love serving it alongside apple slices dipped in caramel or a simple pecan pie—it’s a great way to round out a cozy harvest meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or dinner parties, I like layering the pumpkin mousse in glass parfait cups with crushed gingersnap cookies between layers for a delightful crunch surprise. Serving it in mini mason jars with festive ribbon tied around adds a charming rustic touch that guests always comment on.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them covered tightly in the refrigerator. I usually place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the mousse to prevent a skin from forming. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days.

Freezing

I’ve tried freezing this mousse a couple of times. It’s possible, but be prepared for a bit of texture change—the cream may separate slightly once thawed. If you freeze it, scoop it into an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Since this mousse is best enjoyed chilled, you don’t want to reheat it. If you’ve frozen it, just let it come to fridge temperature gradually before serving, then give it a gentle stir to bring back some of the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, because pie filling is already sweetened and spiced. Using pie filling would make the mousse too sweet and the seasoning unbalanced.
How long should I chill the pumpkin mousse before serving?

I recommend chilling the mousse for at least one hour. This helps the flavors set and the texture become wonderfully firm yet airy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives like cashew cream cheese and coconut cream. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
What’s the best way to fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture?

Use a large rubber spatula and gently scoop from the bottom of the bowl upwards, turning the bowl slowly as you fold. This preserves the airiness without deflating your whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Mousse Recipe for Fall Recipe has truly become my go-to for easy, impressive seasonal desserts. I love how it feels fancy without fuss, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes your house smell like fall as much as it tastes like it. Whether you’re whipping this up for a casual weekend treat or your next dinner party, I promise it’ll impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and let me know if your family goes crazy for it too!