This Pumpkin Fluff is the ultimate fall dessert dip—light, creamy, and bursting with pumpkin spice flavor. It’s made with just a few simple ingredients, no baking required, and comes together in 5 minutes or less. Serve it with cookies, fruit, or graham crackers, and watch it disappear!
Whether you’re planning a fall get-together, looking for a sweet Thanksgiving snack, or just craving something pumpkin-y, this recipe is fast, festive, and totally delicious. Best of all, it’s low-effort but high reward—the kind of easy treat you’ll want to make all season long.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin (not pie filling)
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (for extra sweetness)
- Optional garnish: extra whipped topping, cinnamon, crushed gingersnaps
Preparation:
Step 1: Combine Pumpkin and Pudding
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the pumpkin purée and dry pudding mix until fully combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add Flavor
- Mix in pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and brown sugar if using. Stir well.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix—you want it light and fluffy.
Step 4: Chill
- For best flavor and texture, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. You can also make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra whipped topping, cinnamon, or crushed cookies if desired. Serve with dippers and enjoy!
Variation:
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Fluff: Mix in 4 oz softened cream cheese before adding Cool Whip.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra cinnamon for warmth.
- Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla for a deeper flavor.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free pudding mix and coconut whipped topping.
- Mini Dessert Cups: Spoon into mini cups and top with crushed graham crackers for individual desserts.
COOKING Note:
Always use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains sugar and spices. You can also adjust sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Pumpkin Fluff with a variety of fun dippers:
- Graham crackers
- Gingersnaps
- Vanilla wafers
- Apple slices
- Pretzels
- Cinnamon pita chips
- Mini cookies
- Marshmallows
You can also:
- Serve in a hollowed-out mini pumpkin for a festive touch
- Use as a frosting or filling for cakes and cupcakes
- Layer in a trifle with crushed cookies and whipped cream
Tips:
- Chill before serving—it enhances the flavor and sets the texture
- Double the batch for parties or potlucks
- For extra thickness, use less whipped topping or more pudding
- Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a frozen pumpkin treat
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Total Time: 5–35 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per ¼ cup serving, approx.):
- Calories: ~110
- Protein: ~1g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~5g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Sodium: ~90mg
- Fiber: ~1g
Note: values vary depending on brand of ingredients used.
❓FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Fluff ahead of time?
- Yes! It tastes even better after chilling. Make up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
- You can, but Cool Whip helps it stay fluffy longer. If using homemade, serve the same day.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Fluff?
- Yes, but the texture may change slightly. It’s better eaten fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Can I use sugar-free pudding?
- Absolutely—great for a lower sugar version. Just make sure it’s still instant pudding mix.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
- Use 1 tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp each nutmeg and ginger + a pinch of cloves or allspice.
Conclusion:
Creamy, fluffy, and bursting with cozy fall flavor, Pumpkin Fluff is the no-bake dessert you’ll be making on repeat. It’s perfect for entertaining, after-school snacking, or anytime you’re craving a taste of pumpkin pie without the effort.
Fast to make, fun to serve, and always a hit—this easy dip turns basic ingredients into a seasonal showstopper. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!