Ah, the arrival of autumn brings with it the unmistakable scent of pumpkin spice wafting through the air—like a cozy blanket for the soul. You’ve probably seen it everywhere—lattes, candles, and even dog treats. But there’s something uniquely satisfying about transforming that iconic fall flavor into a delightfully creamy pumpkin mousse. With just five ingredients, it’s a dessert that feels like a quick hug on a chilly day.
Steps
- Begin by using a hand mixer to whip the cold heavy cream in a large bowl until medium stiff peaks form, which should take about 3 minutes.
- In another large bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree together with the evaporated milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the instant vanilla pudding mix, Greek yogurt, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract to the pumpkin mixture, and whisk until everything is well combined.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until it is fully incorporated.
- Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Serve the mousse in individual portions, and garnish with your choice of graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream, pecans, cinnamon, or ginger cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1 can (15 oz.) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1092kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 96g | Saturated Fat: 60g | Cholesterol: 360mg | Sodium: 264mg | Potassium: 720mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 3858IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 630mg | Iron: 6mg
FAQ
- How long does it take to make pumpkin mousse?
- The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including chilling time.
- Can I prepare pumpkin mousse in advance?
- Yes, this mousse can be made ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 4-5 days.
- What should I use as garnishes for the pumpkin mousse?
- You can top the mousse with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, pecans, gingersnap cookies, cinnamon, or candied walnuts for added flavor and texture.
- Is it necessary to use a hand mixer for this recipe?
- Yes, using a hand mixer is recommended to whip the heavy cream until medium stiff peaks form, which helps achieve the mousse’s light and airy texture.
- Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another ingredient?
- While Greek yogurt is recommended for its creaminess and tang, you can substitute it with another type of yogurt or a similar creamy ingredient, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Tips
- To achieve the best texture, ensure the heavy cream is thoroughly chilled before whipping it to medium stiff peaks.
- Prepare the mousse in advance by spooning or piping it into individual serving dishes for an easy and elegant make-ahead dessert.
- Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing with a variety of toppings such as graham cracker crumbs, whipped cream, pecans, cinnamon, or ginger cookies.
- Store any leftover mousse in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to four to five days to maintain freshness.
Equipment
- Hand mixer – Essential for whipping the heavy cream to medium stiff peaks.
- Whisk – Required for mixing the pumpkin, evaporated milk, and other ingredients smoothly.
