If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that captures everything magical about fall with zero oven time, No Bake Pumpkin Pie is your answer. This dreamy treat layers a rich yet light cheesecake base with a spiced, silky pumpkin pudding over a classic graham cracker crust—and the best part is, even novice bakers can whip it up in a flash! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want to indulge in pumpkin goodness any night of the week, this no bake pumpkin pie offers big flavor, cloudlike texture, and true simplicity.

No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple but essential ingredients are each handpicked for taste, texture, and color—you’ll be amazed at what they create together! Each one adds just the right note, from the tangy cream cheese to the aromatic warmth of pumpkin pie spice.

Cream Cheese: Softened for easy blending, it makes the base luxuriously creamy without needing to bake.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese and balances the tang, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
Cool Whip or Whipped Cream: Divided between layers, it brings a light, fluffy texture you can’t resist.
Pre-made Graham Cracker Crust: The ultimate shortcut for sweet, crisp base—no oven required!
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Gives structure to the pumpkin layer so the pie slices beautifully.
Milk: Blends with the pudding for a silky, soft filling—whole or 2% both work nicely.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Delivers real pumpkin flavor, color, and a touch of earthiness (don’t use pumpkin pie filling).
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Brings those quintessential fall vibes thanks to its blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
Nutmeg: Enhances the pumpkin flavor with its sweet, warm undertones—freshly grated if you have it!
Cinnamon: Extra warmth and fragrance to make those pumpkin flavors sing.

How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Base

Start by blending your softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and half of the Cool Whip. Use a hand mixer for a super smooth result—this guarantees that luscious, rich yet airy base layer. Take a moment to taste; it should be sweet, tangy, and irresistible! Once mixed, spread this evenly in your pre-made graham cracker crust, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 2: Prepare the Spiced Pumpkin Layer

In a separate bowl, stir together the vanilla pudding mix and milk until it starts to thicken—this shouldn’t take more than a minute. Then fold in the canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The mixture should transform into a bright, golden, and fragrant filling. Pour this over the cream cheese layer and spread gently so the layers stay distinct.

Step 3: Add the Fluffy Topping

Take the rest of your Cool Whip and spread it generously over the pumpkin layer. This billowy cloud is the finishing touch and adds a lovely contrast to the spice and tang of the pie. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or ground cinnamon right on top.

Step 4: Chill Until Set

Now comes the hardest part—waiting! Cover your pie and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours (overnight is even better) to let all those layers set and meld. This step is crucial for clean slices and perfect texture, so don’t rush it. Once it’s fully chilled, you’re ready to slice and enjoy.

How to Serve No Bake Pumpkin Pie

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, try a swirl of whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or toasted pecans. Some folks love a drizzle of caramel sauce—there’s no wrong way to dress up No Bake Pumpkin Pie!

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai, or keep things ultra-festive with a glass of apple cider. If you want to round out a holiday spread, serve alongside spiced nuts, roasted pear salad, or cranberry sauce to balance the rich, cool pie.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual No Bake Pumpkin Pie jars for guests, or cut tiny bite-sized bars perfect for sharing at a party. For a showy holiday look, pile on extra whipped cream and arrange mini pumpkin candies on top—or use a stencil to dust cinnamon into pretty autumn shapes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover No Bake Pumpkin Pie covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The texture actually gets even better on day two, making it perfect for prepping ahead of hectic holiday gatherings.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie for up to one month—just make sure to wrap it well in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Note that the whipped topping may lose some volume, but the pie will still taste delicious!

Reheating

No reheating required—No Bake Pumpkin Pie is at its best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge! If you somehow prefer a slightly warmer texture, slice and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully—just beat cold heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. It brings a fresh, creamy flavor to your No Bake Pumpkin Pie.

Is there a substitute for graham cracker crust?

Definitely—try a cookie crust (like gingersnap or vanilla wafer), or make a quick homemade base with almond flour and melted butter for a gluten-free twist on no bake pumpkin pie.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

Stick with plain canned pumpkin puree for this recipe, since pumpkin pie filling already has added sugar and spices, which can make the pie overly sweet and throw off the layered flavors.

How can I make this pie dairy-free?

For a dairy-free No Bake Pumpkin Pie, swap in your favorite plant-based cream cheese and use coconut whipped topping and nut milk for the pudding layer. The result is just as creamy and spiced!

Will the pie set firmly enough to slice?

Yes! As long as you let it chill for the full 3–4 hours, the wonderful combo of cream cheese and pudding will set to sliceable perfection, with distinct layers that hold up beautifully on the plate.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a pumpkin fanatic or just looking for a fuss-free dessert, No Bake Pumpkin Pie is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Treat yourself to a slice and savor all the creamy, spiced goodness—it’s a recipe worth sharing with everyone you love!

No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Pie