Name: Pumpkin Mousse Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 box (3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix); 2 cups cold milk; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 8 oz whipped topping; Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for topping

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These pumpkin mousse cups are a light, fluffy, and irresistible fall dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. They come together in minutes and are served in individual cups for perfect portions making them ideal for parties, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.

The mousse is creamy, perfectly spiced, and topped with a swirl of whipped cream for a finishing touch. My family loves these because they’re rich enough to feel decadent but still light and airy, and they can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Mousse Cups

This mousse is light yet full of flavor, a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s quick, no-bake, and make-ahead friendly, perfect for last-minute guests or planned gatherings. Plus, serving in individual cups makes them elegant and easy to portion.

Simple Ingredients

You’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients:

Pumpkin Puree: The star of the dessert, full of warm autumn flavor.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Gives structure and creaminess to the mousse.
Milk: Helps set the pudding base.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds that cozy, seasonal spice blend.
Whipped Topping: Lightens the mousse and adds fluff.
Whipped Cream & Cinnamon: For an easy, elegant garnish.

Servings and Timings

Servings: 8 cups
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

What is Needed

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
8 oz whipped topping
Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for topping

Instructions

Make the base: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, pudding mix, milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy. Chill for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture until light and fluffy.
Fill the cups: Spoon or pipe the mousse into small glass cups or jars.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
Garnish & serve: Just before serving, top each mousse cup with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Top Tips

Don’t overmix after adding the whipped topping fold gently to keep it airy.
Pipe the mousse for a neater, bakery-style presentation.
Chill overnight for a firmer, more developed flavor.

Fun Enhancements

Add a layer of crushed cookies or granola at the bottom for texture.
Swirl in caramel or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Garnish with chocolate curls for a fancy look.
Serve these mousse cups alongside a fall dessert board with gingersnaps, chocolate shavings, and caramel sauce for guests to customize their own toppings.

Recipe Variations

Make it lighter by using sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
Use gingerbread spice instead of pumpkin spice for a holiday twist.
Turn it into a parfait by layering mousse with crushed cookies and whipped cream.
Add a splash of vanilla or bourbon, swirl in a spoonful of Nutella, or top with candied pecans for a gourmet twist.
Seasonal Twist: Swap pumpkin pie spice for peppermint extract and cocoa powder for a Christmas-ready mousse.

Recommended Equipment

Mixing bowls
Whisk & spatula
Piping bag (optional)
Small cups, jars, or ramekins

Make Ahead Tips

These mousse cups can be made up to 2 days in advance just add the whipped cream garnish right before serving for the freshest look.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
These do not freeze well, as freezing can break the mousse texture.

Troubleshooting Your Pumpkin Mousse Cups

Why is my mousse too runny?

Make sure the pudding mix has thickened before folding in whipped topping. Use whole milk for the creamiest, most stable texture.

The flavor isn’t strong enough how do I fix it?

Add 1/2 tsp extra pumpkin pie spice or a splash of vanilla extract for more depth.

My mousse isn’t fluffy what went wrong?

Overmixing deflates the whipped topping. Gently fold it in to keep the mousse light.

How to Serve It Beautifully

Serve these cups on a decorative tray with a dusting of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick garnish.
For the ultimate cozy pairing, enjoy them with espresso, chai tea, a caramel latte, or even an after-dinner glass of Baileys for the adults.
Serve in champagne flutes for a fancy dinner, mason jars for a rustic look, or mini shot glasses for bite-sized party treats.

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

Pumpkin mousse is a lighter alternative to pumpkin pie, perfect for those who want something creamy and spiced without the heaviness of baked desserts. The individual cups make them look elegant and party-ready with minimal effort.