As the leaves begin to turn and the scent of autumn fills the air, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a delightful dessert that captures its essence. Our Creamy Pumpkin Mousse with Maple Whipped Cream is a perfect blend of rich flavors and smooth textures, making it an irresistible treat for gatherings or a cozy night in.
This dessert stands out not only for its velvety consistency but also for its ease of preparation. In just 10 minutes—plus a little time to chill—you’ll have a crowd-pleasing mousse that can serve anywhere from 4 to 6 people. The combination of pumpkin and real maple syrup provides a comforting flavor profile that is reminiscent of holiday celebrations.
The health benefits of the key ingredients are noteworthy, too. Pumpkin is a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants, while the heavy whipping cream adds a luxurious creaminess without overwhelming the dish. Using real maple syrup instead of refined sugars gives this mousse a natural sweetness, along with a hint of caramel-like flavor.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! Here’s everything you need:
Ingredients
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 6 T. real maple syrup, divided
- 1 15-oz. can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened, cubed
- 2 T. pumpkin pie spice
- 1 t. real vanilla extract
- 1/3 c. half & half
- Optional: Pecan halves, Ground cinnamon, for dusting
Directions
- Beat the heavy whipping cream in a large bowl with a hand mixer until it doubles in size. Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and continue beating until light and fluffy. Cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the pumpkin purée, cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, half & half, and remaining maple syrup together until thoroughly blended.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if desired, then transfer to individual dessert bowls. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- To serve, remove from refrigerator and top with maple whipped cream, pecans, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired. Enjoy!
This creamy pumpkin mousse is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply wishing to treat yourself. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of spiced chai for a perfect autumn experience.
Feel free to experiment with variations of this recipe; it can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients meet your dietary needs. Additionally, you can use flavored creamers in place of half & half for a unique twist!
Lastly, remember to avoid overmixing the cream; it should be fluffy and airy, providing the right texture for this delectable dessert.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how your pumpkin mousse turned out!
