Introduction
Pumpkin Mousse Parfait with Whipped Cream is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers silky, spiced pumpkin mousse with airy whipped cream, creating a treat that’s both elegant and comforting. Served in clear glasses, these parfaits look stunning while offering the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie in a lighter, creamier form. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, this dessert delivers indulgence without being too heavy, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional pies and cakes.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s easy, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. The pumpkin mousse has the richness of pumpkin pie filling but with a lighter, airy texture that melts in your mouth. I also adore how it looks in parfait glasses – the layers of golden pumpkin and fluffy whipped cream are as beautiful as they are delicious. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, which makes hosting stress-free.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because:
- It requires no baking – just mix, layer, and chill.
- It’s lighter than pie but still delivers all the fall flavors.
- The parfait presentation makes it perfect for entertaining.
- It can be customized with toppings like cookie crumbs, nuts, or caramel drizzle.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 parfaits
- Calories per Serving: ~280–320 kcal
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Mousse:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3/4 cup (90 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Crushed gingersnaps or graham crackers
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
Simple Cooking Directions
- Whip cream for mousse and set aside.
- Beat cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
- Fold in whipped cream to make mousse.
- Layer mousse and whipped cream in glasses.
- Chill, garnish, and serve.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
1. Make Whipped Cream for the Mousse
- In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Set aside.
2. Make the Pumpkin Base
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add pumpkin purée, powdered sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Mix until creamy and lump-free.
3. Combine
- Gently fold whipped cream into pumpkin mixture until light and fluffy.
4. Make Whipped Cream Topping
- Whip remaining 1 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
5. Assemble the Parfaits
- In serving glasses, layer pumpkin mousse and whipped cream alternately.
- Repeat layers until glasses are full.
6. Chill & Garnish
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with cookie crumbs, nuts, or caramel drizzle.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled in parfait glasses, mason jars, or small dessert cups.
- Add a festive garnish like crushed gingersnaps or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving dessert tables or autumn dinner parties.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Use cold heavy cream for best whipping results.
- Fold gently when combining whipped cream with pumpkin mixture to keep it airy.
- For a stronger spice flavor, add extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Make ahead the night before for easy serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Pumpkin Parfait – Add a layer of crushed chocolate cookies.
- Maple Pumpkin Mousse – Stir in 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the pumpkin base.
- Nutty Crunch – Add layers of toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Mini Cheesecake Style – Add a graham cracker crumb base before layering.
- Kid-Friendly Fun – Top with mini marshmallows or candy corn for Halloween.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as whipped cream loses texture when thawed.
Special Equipment Needed
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Parfait glasses, mason jars, or dessert cups
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Mousse Parfait with Whipped Cream is a light, creamy, and festive dessert that delivers the comforting flavors of fall without the heaviness of traditional pies. Elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for everyday indulgence, this no-bake recipe is versatile, beautiful, and crowd-pleasing. Whether for Thanksgiving, a dinner party, or a cozy night in, this parfait is sure to impress and satisfy
Pumpkin Mousse Parfait with Whipped Cream
Description
Pumpkin Mousse Parfait with Whipped Cream is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers silky, spiced pumpkin mousse with airy whipped cream, creating a treat that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Mousse:
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
Optional Garnishes:
Instructions
-
1. Make Whipped Cream for the Mousse : In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
-
2. Make the Pumpkin Base : Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin purée, powdered sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until creamy and lump-free.
-
3. Combine : Gently fold whipped cream into pumpkin mixture until light and fluffy.
-
4. Make Whipped Cream Topping : Whip remaining 1 cup heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
-
5. Assemble the Parfaits : In serving glasses, layer pumpkin mousse and whipped cream alternately. Repeat layers until glasses are full.
-
6. Chill & Garnish : Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with cookie crumbs, nuts, or caramel drizzle.
