Decadent No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert

Welcome the crisp air and cozy flavors of autumn with this incredibly light and irresistibly fluffy Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse! This delightful dessert captures the essence of fall in every spoonful, featuring a perfectly balanced blend of creamy, tangy pumpkin spice mousse and a crunchy, cinnamon-infused graham cracker crust. Crowned with fresh, ethereal whipped cream, it’s the ultimate ending to any meal, promising a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the season, crafted for ease and maximum enjoyment.

About This Easy No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

There’s a tradition I wholeheartedly embrace each year: the arrival of pumpkin spice flavors the moment a gentle chill graces the air. Some might say it’s a bit early to start celebrating autumn, but when a dessert is this utterly delicious and effortlessly simple, who can wait? This incredible no-bake pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is a testament to why we adore fall flavors so much.

Imagine a dessert that requires no oven time for the creamy mousse, yet delivers all the rich, spiced comfort of a classic pumpkin pie, but with an even silkier texture. That’s precisely what this recipe offers. It’s the perfect treat to usher in the autumn season, whether the weather outside is still holding onto summer warmth or has fully embraced the golden hues of fall.

This pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is destined to become your signature dessert throughout the fall season, suitable for any gathering, from casual family dinners to more elaborate holiday feasts. What makes it truly exceptional is its straightforward preparation, making it an ideal choice even for a spontaneous weeknight indulgence. You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy something this good!

The beauty of this recipe also lies in its make-ahead convenience. You can effortlessly prepare these individual cups of no-bake pumpkin cheesecake mousse a day or two in advance. This brilliant feature takes the stress out of hosting dinner parties and even the busy preparations for Thanksgiving, allowing you to focus on your guests and enjoy the moment. Each spoonful is a delightful journey: first, a satisfying crunch from the toasted cinnamon graham cracker crumble at the bottom, followed by the rich, creamy, and subtly tangy pumpkin cheesecake mousse. The light and airy whipped cream topping is the final flourish, enhancing the experience and evoking the comforting flavors of a homemade pumpkin pie, but with a luxurious, velvety twist and significantly less effort.

Forget the complexities of baking a traditional cheesecake or pie. This mousse offers an equally impressive, if not superior, flavor profile with a delightful texture and a fraction of the work. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves fall desserts but appreciates simplicity and convenience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this outstanding pumpkin spice creation!

Key Ingredients for Your Fall Mousse

Crafting the perfect pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that irresistible fall flavor and dreamy texture:

• Graham Crackers: The foundation of our delightful crumble crust. Using your favorite brand is key, as its flavor will shine through. For a consistently delicious outcome, I always reach for Honey Maid. If you’re looking for a slightly different twist, cinnamon-flavored graham crackers can also elevate the spice profile even further. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free graham crackers are a wonderful alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dessert.
• Sugar: This recipe utilizes two types of sugar for optimal results. Granulated sugar provides the necessary sweetness and helps bind the crumble layer, ensuring it bakes up perfectly golden brown. Confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar) is essential for the mousse, dissolving smoothly to create a silky, lump-free texture without adding graininess.
• Unsalted Butter: Crucial for both the crumble and the mousse. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of your dessert. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it, but be mindful to slightly reduce any other added salt in your recipe if applicable, though this mousse recipe doesn’t call for extra salt beyond what might be in the butter. Ensure it’s melted for the crumble to evenly coat the graham cracker crumbs.
• Ground Cinnamon: A touch of ground cinnamon added to the graham cracker crumble base layer is a subtle yet significant detail. It perfectly complements the robust flavors of the pumpkin spice mousse, adding warmth and depth to every bite. This extra layer of spice elevates the entire dessert.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This is the heart of our fall flavor! You have the option to either purchase a pre-blended pumpkin pie spice or easily make your own at home. For convenience, I often buy it, as it’s a fantastic shortcut. This blend typically features familiar, aromatic spices like ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves, all working in harmony to create that signature autumn taste. You can also adjust the amount to your personal preference for a stronger or milder spice kick.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the “cheesecake” element, delivering that characteristic tangy and rich flavor. I highly recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best possible texture and mouthfeel – it yields a creamier, more luxurious mousse. However, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted if you prefer a lighter option. The most critical tip here is to ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature before use. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, uniform mousse.
• Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract is a non-negotiable for elevating the flavor profile of any dessert. It enhances the sweetness and depth of the pumpkin and spice notes. My personal favorite is Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract – its rich, complex aroma is truly amazing. Don’t skimp on good vanilla!
• Pumpkin Puree: This is where the magic happens for the pumpkin flavor and color. It is absolutely vital to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, and using it will throw off the carefully balanced flavors of this recipe. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make your own pumpkin puree; here’s a helpful guide on how to make pumpkin puree from scratch.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (for homemade whipped cream): While store-bought whipped cream might seem like an easy shortcut, homemade whipped cream is always superior for this recipe. It adds unparalleled lightness, freshness, and allows you to control the sweetness, preventing the mousse from becoming overly sweet. To make it, simply add heavy whipping cream to the bowl of a stand mixer (or use an electric handheld mixer) and beat on high speed until light, fluffy, and firm peaks form. You’ll want extra whipped cream for garnishing the finished desserts, perhaps with an additional sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an elegant touch.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

Having the right kitchen tools can make the preparation of this pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse even more enjoyable and efficient. While many items are standard, a few specific pieces will ensure your dessert comes out perfectly every time:

• Food Processor: This is a game-changer for preparing the graham cracker crumble. A food processor quickly and evenly pulverizes the graham crackers into fine crumbs, creating a consistent base for your crust. It also helps incorporate the butter and spices efficiently.
• Half Sheet Baking Pan: You’ll need a half sheet baking pan for toasting the graham cracker crumble. Lining it with aluminum foil ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking. The rimmed edges are also helpful to keep the crumble contained while baking.
• Stand Mixer or Electric Handheld Mixer: A stand mixer (with a paddle attachment) or a robust electric handheld mixer is absolutely essential for creating both the fluffy whipped cream and the smooth, airy cheesecake mousse base. The power and efficiency of these mixers ensure that your ingredients are properly aerated, resulting in the perfect light texture. Remember to clean out the mixer bowl thoroughly between whipping the cream and preparing the mousse base to avoid any cross-contamination of flavors or textures.
• Large Mixing Bowls: A set of durable metal mixing bowls will come in handy. You’ll need at least one large bowl, ideally chilled, for whipping the heavy cream. Another large bowl will be used for gently folding the whipped cream into the pumpkin cheesecake mixture, a critical step to maintain the mousse’s airy quality.
• Spatula: A flexible spatula is indispensable for scraping down the sides of your mixer bowl, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated, and most importantly, for gently folding the whipped cream into the mousse base without deflating it.
• Dessert Dishes or Jars: For serving these beautiful individual desserts, I personally used stemless, wide-mouthed wine glasses, which offer an elegant presentation. While I don’t have a direct link to those, these dessert glasses are another excellent option, providing a lovely display for the layers of crumble and mousse. Small mason jars or ramekins also work wonderfully.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

Creating this irresistible pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is easier than you think. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly layered and flavorful dessert:

Crafting the Cinnamon Graham Cracker Crumble

The base of this dessert is a crucial element, providing a delightful crunch and a hint of cinnamon that perfectly complements the creamy mousse.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 325˚F (160˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. This step is essential for easy cleanup and preventing the crumble from sticking.
2. Process Graham Crackers: Place the graham crackers into the bowl of your food processor. Pulse until they are transformed into fine, uniform crumbs. This ensures a consistent texture throughout the crumble.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted unsalted butter to the graham cracker crumbs in the food processor. Pulse a few more times until the mixture comes together, forming small, moist nuggets. The butter helps bind everything and makes the crumble wonderfully golden when baked.
4. Bake and Cool: Transfer the crumble mixture onto the prepared foil-lined baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, breaking up any larger chunks with a spoon or your fingertips. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the crumble turns a light golden brown and smells fragrant. Once baked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely to room temperature. A fully cooled crumble is essential to prevent it from softening the mousse later.

Preparing the Velvety Pumpkin Spice Mousse

The heart of this dessert is its incredibly smooth, airy, and flavorful pumpkin spice mousse.

1. Beat Cream Cheese Mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer), combine the softened cream cheese, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and completely smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Incorporate Pumpkin Puree: Add the pumpkin puree to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again on medium speed until the pumpkin is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color and texture. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; just combine until smooth.
3. Gently Fold in Whipped Cream: This is a critical step for achieving that airy mousse texture. Remove the bowl from the mixer. Gently fold in the previously prepared homemade whipped cream using a spatula. Use a gentle, upward motion, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. This folding technique ensures the mousse remains light and airy. Continue until no streaks of whipped cream are visible.

Assembling Your Mousse Desserts

Now comes the fun part: layering your delicious components into beautiful individual desserts!

1. Layer the Crumble: Take your 6 chosen dessert dishes or jars. Add an equal layer of the cooled cinnamon graham cracker crumble to the bottom of each dish. You can press it down gently with the back of a spoon if you prefer a firmer crust, or leave it loose for a more crumbly texture.
2. Add the Mousse: Carefully spoon or pipe equal amounts of the pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse over the crumble layer in each dish. If you want a perfectly smooth top, use the back of a spoon to gently even out the surface of the mousse. For a cleaner and more professional presentation, use a wet paper towel to wipe any mousse smudges from the edges of your dishes.

Chilling, Decorating, and Serving

Chilling is crucial for the mousse to set properly and for the flavors to meld beautifully. The final touches elevate the dessert from delicious to truly special.

1. Refrigerate: Cover the assembled dessert dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the mousse to firm up and the flavors to deepen. Ideally, chill for 4 hours or even overnight for the best results.
2. Decorate and Serve: When you’re ready to serve, remove the desserts from the refrigerator. Add a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream to the top of each mousse. For an extra touch of fall elegance and flavor, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon over the whipped cream, or use a few mini chocolate chips, candied pecans, or a small cinnamon stick as a garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

Pro Tips for a Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

Achieving a show-stopping pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is simple with a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure your dessert is nothing short of perfection:

• Soften That Cream Cheese! This might seem obvious, but it’s absolutely crucial. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy mousse, no matter how long you beat it. Allow your cream cheese to sit at room temperature for at least an hour before you begin, or gently warm it in its foil wrapper in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes.
• Don’t Over-Whip the Heavy Cream: When making your homemade whipped cream, beat it until firm peaks form, meaning when you lift the whisk, the peaks hold their shape without collapsing. Be careful not to beat it for too long, as it can quickly turn into butter, which will ruin the light, airy texture needed for the mousse. Stop as soon as those beautiful peaks appear.
• Gentle Folding is Key: When incorporating the whipped cream into the pumpkin cheesecake mixture, use a gentle hand and a spatula. Overmixing at this stage will deflate the whipped cream, leading to a denser, less airy mousse. Fold until just combined, stopping as soon as no streaks of white whipped cream are visible.
• No Time for the Crumble? No Problem! We understand that sometimes you need to cut a corner or two. If baking the graham cracker crumble isn’t feasible, you have a couple of delicious alternatives. You can serve the mousse without this layer entirely for an even lighter dessert, or for a touch of indulgence, add a layer of store-bought chocolate fudge sauce or caramel sauce at the bottom of your dessert dishes instead. You could also use crushed gingersnap cookies or a store-bought cookie crumb crust mix for a quicker, no-bake alternative.
• Taste and Adjust: Before assembling, taste your pumpkin mousse mixture. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can carefully fold in a little more confectioner’s sugar. If you desire a stronger spice presence, add a tiny pinch more pumpkin pie spice.
• Presentation Matters: While the taste is paramount, a beautiful presentation enhances the experience. Using clear dessert glasses allows the layers of crumble, mousse, and whipped cream to shine. Don’t forget that clean edge tip – wiping the rims with a damp paper towel before chilling makes a noticeable difference.
• Chill for Success: Don’t rush the chilling process. The mousse needs ample time in the refrigerator to properly set and for all the incredible fall flavors to meld together. Rushing this step could result in a softer, less stable mousse.

More tasty cheesecake-inspired recipes to try this season: Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse | Triple Berry Cheesecake | Pecan Pie Cheesecake | Mini No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecakes

Can You Freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse?

Absolutely! One of the many wonderful qualities of this pumpkin cheesecake mousse is its freezer-friendliness, making it an excellent option for meal prepping desserts or saving leftovers. To freeze the mousse, it’s best to do so before adding the crumble or whipped cream, or at least before the final assembly into individual dishes.

Simply spoon the prepared mousse mixture into an airtight, freezer-safe container. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn and absorb odors from other foods. Label the container with the date. The mousse can be safely frozen for up to 8 weeks without a significant loss in quality or texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the frozen mousse in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight until it becomes soft and easily spooned out. Once thawed, you can assemble it with a fresh batch of crumble (if desired) and homemade whipped cream. Remember, it’s always best to make the whipped cream fresh just before serving, as freezing and thawing can alter its light and airy texture. This flexibility means you can always have a delicious, homemade fall dessert ready for unexpected guests or a spontaneous treat!

How Long Can I Chill These Pumpkin Desserts For?

The beauty of this no-bake pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse lies in its fantastic make-ahead capabilities. Once assembled in their individual cups or dishes, these delectable desserts can be stored, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. This generous chilling window makes them an ideal choice for any upcoming gathering, dinner party, or holiday celebration. Preparing them in advance frees up valuable time on the day of your event, allowing you to relax and enjoy the company of your guests. The longer chilling time also allows the flavors to deepen and meld, often resulting in an even more delicious and cohesive dessert experience. Just make sure they are well-covered to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any refrigerator odors.

Need some more inspiration for dessert? Check out my dessert recipes page!

What to Serve with Your Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

This creamy and flavorful pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is not only an easy recipe to prepare but also boasts a sophisticated flavor profile that makes it a versatile dessert. Despite its richness, it’s surprisingly light, making it a perfect sweet ending to a hearty fall meal without feeling overly heavy. Its distinctive autumn flavors make it an ideal pairing for dishes that share a similar seasonal theme.

For a truly cohesive and hearty fall meal, consider continuing the pumpkin or squash theme throughout your menu. Here are some delicious main course options that would pair wonderfully with this exquisite mousse:

• Spicy Black Bean Chicken Pumpkin Enchilada Bake: The warmth and spice of this dish would transition beautifully to the dessert, providing a satisfying balance of savory and sweet. The robust flavors of the enchilada would be perfectly rounded out by the creamy, cooling mousse. Get the recipe here.
• Cheesy Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake: Indulgent and comforting, a cheesy pumpkin gnocchi bake offers a rich, savory experience that highlights autumnal ingredients. The lightness of the mousse would provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta dish. Find the recipe here.
• Bacon Butternut Squash Risotto with Roasted Chicken: This pairing is a celebration of fall flavors. The smoky bacon, sweet butternut squash, and creamy risotto provide a luxurious main course. The pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse would then offer a lighter, yet equally flavorful, finish that echoes the seasonal notes. Try this risotto recipe.
• Roasted Turkey or Chicken with Root Vegetables: For a more traditional holiday meal, a perfectly roasted turkey or chicken alongside a medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes would be a delightful precursor to the mousse. The dessert’s pumpkin spice profile would tie in beautifully with the classic flavors of a festive dinner.
• Pork Loin with Apple Glaze: The sweet and savory notes of a tender pork loin with an apple glaze would harmoniously blend with the dessert. Apples and pumpkins are quintessential fall fruits, and their flavors complement each other wonderfully.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal holiday dinner, this pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is a dessert that fits seamlessly into any fall menu, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and deliciousness.

How to Store Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and delightful texture of your pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse. Here’s how to best keep your delicious creations:

• Refrigeration for Assembled Desserts: Once you have assembled the mousse in individual cups or dishes with the graham cracker crumble, they should be stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover each serving tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any unwanted flavors from other items in your fridge. These assembled desserts will stay fresh and delicious for 1 to 2 days. This makes them an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for entertaining or enjoying over a couple of days.
• Freezing the Mousse Separately: If you’re looking to extend the shelf life beyond a couple of days, the mousse mixture itself can be frozen. Spoon the prepared pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse (without the crumble or whipped cream topping) into an airtight, freezer-safe container. Ensure it’s sealed tightly to protect it from freezer burn. The mousse can be frozen for up to 8 weeks.
• Thawing Frozen Mousse: To enjoy frozen mousse, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight, or for several hours, until it’s soft enough to be easily spooned out. Once thawed, you can proceed to assemble it with a fresh layer of cinnamon graham cracker crumble and freshly whipped cream just before serving. It’s always recommended to prepare fresh whipped cream when serving thawed mousse, as whipped cream does not freeze and thaw well.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy this delightful fall dessert at your convenience, ensuring every bite is as fresh and flavorful as possible.

Finally, if you make this incredible pumpkin mousse recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing when you all make my recipes, and I genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback means the world to me and helps other home cooks discover and enjoy these dishes too.

Feel free to drop any questions below in the comments section as well – I’m always here to help!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I adore seeing these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s genuinely my favorite thing to look through those photos. It truly means the world to me!

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Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Mousse

Creamy, smooth, and tangy, this no-bake pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse is a must-have dessert for fall meals and holiday gatherings!

Prep Time:
15 minutes mins

Cook Time:
10 minutes mins

Additional Time:
2 hours hrs

Total Time:
2 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Servings:
6

5 from 40 votes

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Equipment

• Half Sheet Pan
• 9-Cup Food Processor
• KitchenAid Stand Mixer
• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Spatula

Ingredients

Crumble

• 1 sleeve graham crackers (approx. 9 crackers)
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 5 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Mousse

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)

Instructions

• For the Crumble: Preheat the oven to 325˚F (160˚C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
• In the bowl of a food processor, add graham crackers and process until fine crumbs. Add granulated sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon, then pulse until the mixture comes together to form small, moist nuggets.
• Dump the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, until light golden brown. Set aside to cool completely to room temperature.
• For the Mousse: Add softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use an electric mixer). Beat until fluffy and smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. Beat in pumpkin puree until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream with a spatula until just combined and no white streaks remain.
• To Assemble: Divide the cooled crumble among 6 dessert dishes or jars. Top with equal amounts of the pumpkin spice cheesecake mousse, spreading the top with the back of a spoon to even out. You can also pipe the mousse into the dishes for a decorative touch if you prefer. For a clean presentation, wipe the edges of your dishes with a damp paper towel.
• Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled desserts with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, and up to 2 days, allowing the mousse to set and flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with an extra dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 357kcal |
Carbohydrates: 39g |
Protein: 3g |
Fat: 26g |
Saturated Fat: 16g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 7g |
Trans Fat: 0.4g |
Cholesterol: 70mg |
Sodium: 152mg |
Potassium: 121mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 13g |
Vitamin A: 2995IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 55mg |
Iron: 1mg

Calories:
357kcal

Cuisine:
Fall

Category:
Dessert