When autumn rolls in and the craving for all things pumpkin spice hits hard, this Creamy Pumpkin Fluff becomes my go-to dessert.
It’s light, fluffy, cozy, and indulgent without actually being heavy.
Even better, it’s sugar-free, no-bake, and only takes 10 minutes to whip together.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it checks all the right boxes: easy, festive, light, and make-ahead friendly.
During the holidays or cozy fall weekends, I always want something sweet but not overly complicated.
This dessert satisfies that craving and keeps things low-sugar without sacrificing flavor.
Plus, it’s a great crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks!
Whether you’re watching your sugar intake or just want a quick fall-flavored treat, this Creamy Pumpkin Fluff delivers warm, spiced flavor in every spoonful—no oven required.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned 100% pumpkin puree, not the sweetened pumpkin pie filling.
It gives the dish its creamy base and autumn flavor.
Sugar-Free Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix: Helps thicken the fluff and adds sweetness without added sugar.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that screams fall.
Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor and balances the spices.
Sugar-Free Cool Whip: Adds volume and fluffiness while keeping things light.
Optional Toppings: Whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon add visual flair and texture.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use chilled ingredients for a fluffier texture—especially the Cool Whip and pumpkin puree.
Don’t skip chilling the mixture before serving; it firms up and tastes even better cold.
Mix gently when folding in the Cool Whip to keep the mixture light and airy.
Make it in advance for holidays—it holds up well in the fridge for several days.
If serving for guests, spoon into small dessert jars and garnish individually for a prettier presentation.
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Fluff
Step 1: Combine Pumpkin and Pudding
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and sugar-free vanilla pudding mix until smooth.
The pudding mix will start to thicken the puree slightly, forming a silky base.
Step 2: Add Flavor
Stir in the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract.
Make sure everything is evenly incorporated.
At this stage, it should smell like fall!
Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip
Gently fold in the thawed sugar-free Cool Whip using a spatula.
Fold until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fully blended.
It should have a mousse-like texture.
Step 4: Transfer and Chill
Spoon the pumpkin fluff into individual dessert cups, ramekins, or a large serving bowl.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably more.
The longer it chills, the better the texture becomes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, top each portion with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon for that beautiful finish.
What to Serve It With
This Creamy Pumpkin Fluff is versatile and pairs beautifully with many dippables or side treats. Here are a few fun ideas:
Gingersnap cookies – Perfect for dipping!
Cinnamon graham crackers
Sliced apples or pears for a healthier twist
Crumbled shortbread on top for texture
Pumpkin bread slices to scoop it up
Variations / Substitutions
Use regular pudding mix and Cool Whip if sugar isn’t a concern.
Try different pudding flavors like cheesecake or butterscotch for a flavor twist.
Add crushed graham crackers into the fluff for a pie-like texture.
Make it keto by using keto-friendly whipped topping and pudding mix.
Make it dairy-free by using coconut whipped topping and checking your pudding ingredients.
Storage & Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
The texture remains fluffy and rich even after a couple of days.
Avoid freezing, as the whipped topping tends to lose its structure when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better if made a few hours ahead, as chilling helps it set and deepen the flavor.
Can I freeze pumpkin fluff?
Freezing isn’t recommended. The texture can become watery and grainy after thawing.
What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?
Pumpkin puree is plain pumpkin with no added sugar or spices.
Pumpkin pie filling contains sweeteners and spices and won’t work the same in this recipe.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can, but the texture may be softer and less stable.
Use stabilized whipped cream if possible.
Is this pumpkin fluff keto-friendly?
Not by default, but you can modify it by using low-carb pudding mix and keto whipped topping.
How do I make it look fancy for a party?
Pipe it into dessert jars, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a mini cookie for garnish.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all ingredients and use a large mixing bowl.
Serve in a trifle dish or dessert tray for sharing.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pumpkin Fluff is one of those simple recipes that punches above its weight.
With just five ingredients and no baking involved, it delivers rich autumn flavor, creamy texture, and the kind of comfort that only pumpkin spice can bring.
I love serving this when I want a dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen.
It’s a go-to for weeknight cravings, Thanksgiving sideboards, or fall brunch spreads.

Creamy Pumpkin Fluff
Ingredients
- 1 can pumpkin puree 15 oz
- 1 box sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix 1 oz
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container sugar-free Cool Whip thawed (8 oz)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree and vanilla pudding mix until smooth.
- Stir in pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
- Gently fold in thawed Cool Whip until the texture is smooth and fluffy.
- Spoon into dessert jars or a large serving bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve chilled with optional toppings like whipped cream or chopped pecans.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/creamy-pumpkin-fluff/
Notes
- Be sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Sugar-free options make this lighter, but you can use regular pudding and Cool Whip if preferred.
- Great make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving or fall parties!