Introduction
This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie is a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie with the same beloved flavors, perfect for when you want a quick dessert without heating up the oven. For more seasonal treats, try the Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread Recipe or the Sparkling Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Truffles Recipe.
Ingredients
This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, creating a creamy, spiced filling that’s perfectly set in a crisp graham cracker crust.
- 1 cup (249g) pumpkin puree
- 1 3.4 ounce box instant vanilla pudding mix
- ¼ cup (59ml) milk
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped Cream for serving
Timing
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 0 minutes |
Total Time | 15 minutes (plus chilling) |
Context: This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie is a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie with the same beloved flavors, and it’s ready about 50% faster than similar recipes since it requires no oven time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Crust
Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a touch of sugar in a medium bowl. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact the crust for a sturdy base.
Step 2 — Chill the Crust
Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15–20 minutes. This step helps the crust set and prevents it from becoming soggy when the filling is added later.
Step 3 — Make the Filling Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it is completely smooth and free of lumps. This ensures a silky texture for your no-bake pumpkin pie filling.
Step 4 — Add Pumpkin and Spices
Add the canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the cream cheese. Beat again on medium speed until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color.
Step 5 — Incorporate Sweeteners
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the pumpkin mixture. Continue beating until the filling is smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels if desired.
Step 6 — Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light and airy texture for your delightful no-bake pumpkin pie.
Step 7 — Assemble the Pie
Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator. Spoon the pumpkin filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 8 — Final Chill
Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The pie is ready when the filling is firm to the touch and holds its shape when sliced.
Step 9 — Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, you can garnish with additional whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. This scrumptious no-bake pumpkin pie is best served chilled.
Nutritional Information
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 5g |
Carbohydrates | 38g |
Fat | 17g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 210mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.
Healthier Alternatives
- Greek Yogurt for Heavy Cream — Adds protein while maintaining creaminess with a subtle tang.
- Almond Flour Crust — A gluten-free, lower-carb alternative to traditional graham crackers.
- Coconut Cream for Dairy — Creates a rich, dairy-free filling with a light coconut note.
- Monk Fruit Sweetener — A zero-calorie, lower-carb swap that keeps the sweetness without sugar.
- Pumpkin Purée with Less Sugar — Use unsweetened purée and reduce added sweeteners for a lower-carb version.
- Vanilla Protein Powder Addition — Boosts protein content while enhancing the classic spiced flavor.
- Reduced-Sodium Spice Blend — Mix your own pumpkin pie spice to control and lower sodium intake.
- Avocado for Creaminess — Adds healthy fats and a velvety texture without dairy or excess carbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic dessert experience.
- Serve alongside a warm cup of chai tea or spiced coffee to complement the pumpkin spice flavors.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, potlucks, or any autumn celebration where you want impressive results with minimal effort.
- Top with toasted pecans or crushed ginger snaps for added texture and visual appeal.
- Create individual servings in small mason jars or ramekins for a charming, portion-controlled presentation.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of nutmeg for an elegant finishing touch.
This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie is a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie that maintains all the beloved flavors while offering incredible convenience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply craving a seasonal treat, these serving ideas will elevate your dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using fresh pumpkin puree, which contains too much water. Fix: Always use canned pumpkin puree for a thicker, more stable filling.
- Mistake: Not chilling the crust long enough before adding the filling. Fix: Refrigerate the graham cracker crust for at least 30 minutes to prevent sogginess.
- Mistake: Overmixing the filling, which incorporates too much air. Fix: Gently fold ingredients until just combined for a dense, creamy texture.
- Mistake: Skipping the taste test before setting the pie. Fix: Adjust spices and sweetness while the filling is still soft to perfect the flavor.
- Mistake: Relying solely on refrigeration without adequate setting agents. Fix: Ensure your recipe includes cream cheese or whipped cream for structural integrity.
- Mistake: Pouring warm filling into the crust, causing it to weep. Fix: Let the filling mixture cool to room temperature first for a cleaner slice.
- Mistake: Not allowing the pie to set for the full recommended time. Fix: Chill this scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Mistake: Using low-fat dairy products that won’t whip properly. Fix: Stick with full-fat cream cheese and heavy whipping cream for best results.
- Mistake: Adding liquid sweeteners that thin out the filling. Fix: Use granulated or powdered sugar to maintain the proper consistency.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Keep this scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheat: Since this is a no-bake dessert, reheating is not typically required. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Do not microwave, as this can compromise the texture.
Always refrigerate promptly after serving, and ensure your refrigerator maintains a safe temperature below 40°F (4°C) to keep this delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie fresh and safe to eat.
Conclusion
This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie delivers all the beloved flavors of traditional pumpkin pie without turning on the oven. It’s the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. Give it a try and share your results in the comments below! For another pumpkin treat, try this Pumpkin Butter.
FAQs
How long does this scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie need to set in the refrigerator?
This scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie typically needs at least 4 hours to set properly. For best results, let it chill overnight. This allows the filling to firm up perfectly for slicing.
Can I make this no-bake pumpkin pie ahead of time?
Yes, this scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to two days in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
What kind of crust works best for a no-bake pumpkin pie?
A pre-made graham cracker crust is ideal for this scrumptious No Bake Pumpkin Pie. You can also use a homemade crust from crushed cookies. The no-bake filling pairs wonderfully with these ready-to-use bases.