This creamy and decadent pumpkin mousse is the perfect fall dessert, blending the rich flavors of pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and a luscious whipped topping. With a smooth texture and a hint of cinnamon, this mousse is a must-try for pumpkin lovers. Topped with homemade rum whipped cream and garnished with cinnamon, it’s a showstopper for your holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients like gelatin, sour cream, and sweetened condensed milk, this pumpkin mousse will satisfy your sweet tooth and make you fall in love with the season. Whether you’re making it ahead for Thanksgiving, a cozy family dinner, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a fall favorite. No-bake dessert, pumpkin mousse recipe, and easy fall dessert are just a few of the keywords that make this mousse a perfect addition to your seasonal menu.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Mousse

1/2 oz unflavored gelatin (2 packets or 14 grams total)
1 cup milk (any kind)
1 cup granulated sugar
15 oz can pumpkin puree
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
16 oz sour cream
16 oz whipped topping, thawed in the refrigerator
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Ingredients for Rum Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp rum (dark or golden) or vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Gelatin: In a small saucepan, combine the gelatin with 1 cup of milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk continually until the mixture just begins to steam and the gelatin has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 15 minutes (do not bring it to a boil).
Make the Mousse Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sugar, sour cream, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix on medium speed until everything is well-blended. Add the whipped topping and mix on low speed until combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Combine the Milk and Gelatin Mixture: Slowly drizzle in the cooled gelatin and milk mixture while the mixer is running. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
Chill the Mousse: Immediately divide the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to set.
Make the Rum Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes or until it thickens. Add the rum or vanilla extract and beat for just a few more seconds to combine. Be careful not to over-beat the cream.
Serve: Pipe or dollop the rum whipped cream on top of each serving of mousse and dust with ground cinnamon to garnish.

Tips

Gelatin: Be sure not to let the gelatin mixture boil, as it may affect the texture of the mousse. Let it cool to room temperature before adding it to the mousse mixture.
Chilling: Let the mousse chill for at least 4 hours, but for the best results, refrigerate it overnight. This ensures the mousse sets properly and achieves the perfect texture.
Whipped Cream: For a lighter whipped cream, use vanilla extract instead of rum for a more kid-friendly version.

Variations and Substitutions

Non-Dairy Options: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and a dairy-free whipped topping, and substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices such as ginger, cloves, or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
Pumpkin Spice Substitution: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

FAQs

Can I make this mousse in advance?
Yes! This mousse is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare it the night before and let it chill in the fridge overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop.

What can I use instead of rum in the whipped cream?
If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute with vanilla extract for a milder flavor. For a different kick, you can also use bourbon or maple syrup.

Can I freeze the pumpkin mousse?
While the mousse can be frozen, the texture may change slightly once thawed. It’s best to serve this dessert chilled, but fresh, for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Toppings: Garnish the mousse with extra whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even candied pecans for added texture and flavor.
Pair with: Serve alongside ginger snaps or pumpkin bread for a delicious fall dessert spread.
As a party dessert: This mousse works great for holiday gatherings or dinner parties. Its rich flavor and creamy texture are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy pumpkin mousse is a creamy, decadent dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. The combination of smooth pumpkin puree, spiced pumpkin pie flavor, and airy whipped cream is irresistible. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving a cozy fall treat, this pumpkin mousse is sure to become a new favorite!