If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of autumn without the fuss of an oven, this No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, spiced pumpkin filling layered over a luscious cream cheese base inside a crunchy graham cracker crust makes for a heavenly treat that’s both easy and irresistibly delicious. It’s a recipe that effortlessly brings family and friends together, sharing joy in every spoonful without hours of prep or baking time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step toward making your own cozy, creamy pumpkin pie magic. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors, texture, and that classic pumpkin pie aroma.
- 2 cups canned pumpkin: The smooth, flavorful base that gives the pie its signature taste and vibrant orange color.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens just enough to highlight the natural pumpkin flavors without overpowering the spices.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds richness and a silky texture for the bottom layer, creating depth and creaminess.
- 2 (8-ounce) containers of Cool Whip or other whipped cream: Whipped topping provides lightness and fluffy peaks, perfect for layering and finishing.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Warms the flavor profile with its gentle, spicy sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A blend that gives the pie its nostalgic, comforting aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg: Offers a subtle, nutty kick to round out the spice mixture.
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding: Thickens the pumpkin layer while adding a smooth vanilla undertone.
- 1 cup milk: Needed to activate the pudding mix, ensuring a perfectly creamy texture.
- 2 pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crusts: Crunchy and buttery, these ready-to-use crusts save time and add a lovely contrast to the creamy filling.
How to Make No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crusts
Start by simply setting out your pre-made graham cracker crusts so they’re ready to be filled. These crusts provide a beautifully crisp foundation that pairs perfectly with the creamy layers to come.
Step 2: Make the bottom layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, and one container of whipped cream. Blend with a hand mixer until the mixture is perfectly smooth and fluffy. This velvety cream cheese layer creates a rich base upon which your pumpkin filling will shine. Spread it evenly into each graham cracker crust for a uniform foundation.
Step 3: Prepare the pumpkin layer
In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened. Then add the canned pumpkin, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg, stirring thoroughly to blend those warm autumn spices evenly throughout. This luscious pumpkin mixture is the heart of your pie, packed with seasonal flavors that feel like a hug on a chilly day. Spread it carefully over the cream cheese layer in each crust.
Step 4: Top with whipped cream
Finish each mini pie by topping with the remaining container of whipped cream, spreading it generously for a light and airy topping. For an extra touch of festive charm, sprinkle a bit of pumpkin pie spice across the top — it makes the presentation feel extra special and amps up the aroma.
Step 5: Chill and serve
Place the pies in the refrigerator to chill until fully set, about a couple of hours or overnight if you have time. Serving chilled not only enhances the flavors but gives that perfect sliceable texture that everyone will love. Now your No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe is ready for eager forks!
How to Serve No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting and festive look, consider decorating with toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the whipped cream layer. Adding a cinnamon stick beside each serving adds a rustic, charming touch and a hint of extra spice aroma that delights before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This no-bake pumpkin pie pairs wonderfully with spiced coffee, chai tea, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a savory complement, serve it alongside a light green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the pie’s sweet richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this dessert in individual glass jars or clear cups to showcase the beautiful layers. Top each with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Whether on a holiday table or a casual weekend treat, these presentation ideas will elevate the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping the topping intact and chilled helps maintain the pie’s creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
While this pie tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, though note that the texture of whipped cream toppings may soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
This dessert is designed to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. Keep it chilled for the best taste and texture every time you serve.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
While fresh pumpkin can be used, it requires roasting and pureeing ahead of time, which adds extra steps. Canned pumpkin offers convenience and consistent texture that works perfectly in this no-bake recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
The main concern is the graham cracker crust, which often contains gluten. Look for gluten-free graham cracker crusts or alternative crusts made from nuts or gluten-free cookies to keep it safe.
Can I make this pie vegan?
To adapt this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute cream cheese and whipped topping with vegan versions, and ensure the instant pudding mix is dairy-free. This way, you keep the creamy texture without any animal products.
How long does it take to set in the fridge?
It typically takes at least two hours for the pie to fully set and for the layers to firm up perfectly. Overnight chilling is ideal if you want a firmer texture and enhanced flavors.
Can I double or triple this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! This No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe scales beautifully. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use larger or more graham cracker crusts to serve everyone comfortably.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough giving this No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe a try, especially if you’re after a fuss-free dessert that delivers all the cozy autumn vibes. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s fast, fun, and packed full of that classic pumpkin spice magic. Once you make it, I’m sure it will earn its spot in your family’s recipe rotation too!
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No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Family Favorite Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious No-Bake Pumpkin Pie recipe is a quick and easy family favorite that comes together in just 20 minutes. Featuring a creamy two-layer filling inside a pre-made graham cracker crust, it’s a perfect autumn dessert that requires no baking. The recipe combines a smooth cream cheese base with a spiced pumpkin pudding layer, topped with whipped cream for a light and flavorful finish.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crusts
Bottom Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip or other whipped cream
Pumpkin Layer
- 2 cups canned pumpkin
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Top Layer
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip or other whipped cream
- Optional: pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crusts: Set out the pre-made graham cracker crusts to be ready for the filling.
- Make the bottom layer: In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sugar, and one 8-ounce container of whipped cream using a hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Evenly fill the graham cracker crusts with this cream cheese layer.
- Prepare the pumpkin layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens. Then add the canned pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Spread this spiced pumpkin mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer in the crusts.
- Top with whipped cream: Use the second 8-ounce container of whipped cream to spread smoothly over the pumpkin layer. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top for a decorative touch.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pies uncovered or covered until set, ideally for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled and enjoy your pumpkin pie dessert!
Notes
- Use pre-made graham cracker crusts to save time and simplify the recipe.
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with any whipped topping of your choice.
- Refrigerating the pie for longer (up to 4 hours) enhances firm texture and flavor meld.
- Optionally garnish with cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for presentation.
