No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel

As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the warm scent of spices, there’s a comforting ritual that beckons: dessert time! This No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel is a delightful addition to any autumn gathering, effortlessly combining the classic flavors of pumpkin with a twist that will make your taste buds dance.

When I first paired the light and fluffy pumpkin mousse with a Sweet & Salty Pretzel Pie Crust, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Imagine sinking your fork into a rich and airy filling that’s perfectly complemented by a crunchy crust—a dish that’s both indulgent and refreshingly different.

This recipe not only screams festive but also promises ease, as it requires no baking and can be prepared a day or two in advance. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply wanting to impress friends over coffee, you’ll love how it delivers big on flavor without all the fuss. So, let’s dive in and elevate your dessert game!

Why is No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel a Must-Try?

Indulgence awaits! This dessert is a stunning centerpiece for any autumn gathering, combining the lightness of mousse with a salty, crunchy pretzel crust. Make-ahead magic: You can prep this pie a day or two in advance, freeing up your time for fun. Year-round appeal: While perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s an exciting alternative to traditional pies all year. Flavor explosion: Each bite bursts with rich pumpkin, sweet caramel, and unique textures. For an even easier experience, consider browsing my other delicious no bake recipes to add to your repertoire!

No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust
• Salted Pretzels – Provides a crunchy and salty base for the pie crust. Substitution: Use gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free option.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor. Notes: Lightly packed for accurate measurement.
• Butter or Brown Butter – Binds the crust together while adding richness. Notes: Can be adjusted for flavor preference.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile of the crust. Substitution: Omit or replace with pumpkin pie spice if preferred.

For the Pumpkin Mousse Filling
• Heavy Cream – Used to whip and create a light texture in both the mousse filling and the whipped cream topping. Note: Cold cream whips better.
• Cream Cheese – Serves as the base for the mousse, providing creaminess. Substitution: Neufchâtel cheese can be used for lower fat content.
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides the signature pumpkin flavor. Note: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to the filling. Substitution: Use maple syrup for a different flavor twist.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the caramel sauce. Notes: Adjust for desired sweetness.
• Water – Used in the caramel-making process to help dissolve the sugar. Note: Essential for the wet method of caramel preparation.
• Butter – For the caramel sauce, it adds richness and flavor. Substitution: None recommended.
• Warm Heavy Cream – Mixed into the caramel to create a smooth consistency. Note: Heating first prevents temperature shock.

How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie

Prepare the Crust:
Crush the salted pretzels in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. Mix these crumbs with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture holds together like wet sand. Press this delicious mixture into a removable-bottom tart shell and chill until firm, about 30 minutes.
Make the Mousse:
Whip 1 cup of heavy cream to stiff peaks and set aside. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in the pumpkin puree, spices, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture and pour it into the chilled crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Prepare Whipped Cream:
Whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. If you like, spread this fluffy whipped cream over the mousse before serving for an extra touch.
Make Caramel Sauce:
Combine granulated sugar and water in a pot, stirring gently to dissolve. Boil the mixture without stirring until it reaches an amber color, about 330° – 335°F. Remove from heat and add butter, then stir in warmed heavy cream gradually while whisking until smooth. Allow to cool and store in a jar, reheating to serve.
Serve:
Gently remove the pie from the tart shell and slice it with a sharp knife. Drizzle each slice generously with the homemade salted caramel before serving for a delightful touch.

Optional: Top each slice with a sprinkle of crushed pretzels for an added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie

Chill the Bowl: Use a chilled bowl when whipping cream for better volume and texture in your mousse and topping.
Don’t Skimp on Chilling: Allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Avoid Crystallization: When making caramel, do not stir the mixture once it starts boiling; stirring can cause sugar to crystallize.
Be Precise with Measurements: For a successful crust, ensure your pretzel mixture is moist enough to hold together, adjusting the butter if needed.
Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling for a cleaner, more authentic flavor in your No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie.

What to Serve with No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel?

Indulging in your no bake pumpkin mousse pie is even more delightful when paired with the right complements that enhance its flavors and textures.

Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: Soft and chewy cookies bring a warm spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin, enhancing the autumn vibe.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the pie’s rich texture and warms those pumpkin notes.
Spiced Apple Cider: The crispness of apple cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves harmonizes with the flavors of pumpkin and caramel.
Candied Pecans: Their sweet crunch adds texture and richness, balancing the smoothness of the mousse and giving an unexpected twist.

For a more whimsical approach, consider hosting a dessert platter featuring bite-sized treats. Just imagine cozying up with friends over a selection of seasonal goodies, each bite more tempting than the last.

Chocolate Drizzled Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination echoes the pie crust with a fun twist, offering an extra crunch.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm, comforting drink delivers a perfect pairing—its rich coffee and spice notes bring out the warmth of the pumpkin flavors.
Pecan Pie Bars: Combining the buttery flavors of pecan pie with the lusciousness of your mousse pie creates an unforgettable dessert duo.
Chai Tea: Aromatic and slightly spicy, chai is a warm embrace for your taste buds and enhances your cozy dessert experience.

With these delightful pairings, your No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel will become the star of the table, perfect for any festive gathering!

How to Store and Freeze No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie

Refrigerator: The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover it with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole pie in plastic wrap and then foil. The pie can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Caramel Sauce: Store any leftover salted caramel sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Serving from Freezer: If serving from frozen, slice the No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie while still frozen and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying.

Make Ahead Options

These No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the pie up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to chill the mousse and set the crust perfectly. Start by making the Sweet & Salty Pretzel Pie Crust and chilling it in the fridge, then whip up the mousse and pour it into the crust. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. On the day of serving, make the salted caramel and drizzle it over the pie for that fresh, decadent touch. Just remember, keeping it covered ensures the pie stays fresh and just as delicious!

No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel Variations

Feel free to make this delightful pie your own with these wonderfully creative twists and substitutions.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels to create a crust that everyone can enjoy without worry. It’s a simple swap that maintains all the deliciousness.
Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the pretzel crust for a buttery graham cracker crust for a traditional taste. The sweetness of the graham will balance beautifully with the pumpkin filling.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the mousse for a rich, indulgent texture. This adds a delightful surprise that chocolate fans will adore.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger in the mousse for a personalized flavor profile. Just a touch can elevate the autumn vibe even more.
Add Some Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts to the mousse filling for added crunch and nuttiness, creating a lovely contrast to the creamy texture.
Maple Twist: Replace the vanilla extract with pure maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness that elevates the pumpkin flavor. It’s a unique twist that pays homage to the season.
Dairy-Free Delight: Opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan cream cheese to make this dessert completely dairy-free while still supremely creamy.
Heat Things Up: For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the mousse. This unexpected flavor will add warmth that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.

Customize your creation and enjoy this no bake pie however you desire!

No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie with Salted Caramel Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Look for brands that list only “pumpkin” on the ingredient label. If possible, choose organic options for better flavor and quality.

What is the best storage method for the pie?
The No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to maintain its freshness and prevent odors from affecting the taste. If you’ve got leftovers, enjoy them within that timeframe for the best texture and taste.

Can I freeze the pie or slices?
Yes! To freeze your No Bake Pumpkin Mousse Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. For ease, you might prefer to slice it into individual portions before wrapping, making it easy to grab one at a time. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

What if my caramel sauce crystallizes?
Don’t worry! If your caramel sauce crystallizes, you can gently reheat it on low heat while stirring to dissolve the crystals. Adding a tablespoon of water can also help. If you plan ahead, avoid stirring the mixture while it’s boiling to prevent this issue from happening in the first place.

Are there dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Great question! While this recipe is a delightful indulgence for us, it’s essential to keep it away from pets—particularly any foods containing chocolate, sugar, or dairy, which can be harmful to them. For allergies, ensure that all ingredients are suitable for your guests, particularly with gluten from pretzels and dairy from cream cheese and heavy cream. Always check labels if you’re unsure!

Can I substitute any of the ingredients for a healthier version?
Very much so! You can swap out the cream cheese for Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat alternative. If you prefer a sugar alternative, consider using stevia or another sweetener for the mousse and caramel sauce, adjusting to taste as needed. For those avoiding gluten, using gluten-free pretzels is an excellent choice!