Creamy No Bake Pumpkin Pie You’ll Love This Fall
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team
As the scent of autumn fills the air, I can t help but think of one of my favorite seasonal desserts: No Bake Pumpkin Pie. The first cool breeze sends me straight to the kitchen, ready to whip up this delightful treat without turning on the oven. This pie isn t just a feast for the taste buds its creamy, spiced filling and buttery graham cracker crust create a texture so indulgently smooth, you won t believe it takes just a few simple steps.
In those busy weeks leading up to the holidays, who among us hasn t craved something special yet found themselves short on time? This no-bake wonder would be the answer to those moments, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon with minimal effort. So whether you re seeking an impressive dessert for gatherings or simply want to satisfy a sweet craving, this No Bake Pumpkin Pie is your ticket to homemade bliss without the hassle. Let s dive in and get started!
Why is No Bake Pumpkin Pie a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires no baking, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
Irresistibly Creamy: The combination of pumpkin, vanilla pudding, and spices results in a smooth, decadent texture.
Graham Cracker Crust: The buttery crust adds just the right crunch to balance out the creamy filling.
Time-Saving Delight: With just 15 minutes of active prep time, this pie is ready to chill while you enjoy your day!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it s a holiday feast or a cozy family night, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser!
No Bake Pumpkin Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
- Milk Use whole milk for a richer flavor and creaminess.
- Unflavored Gelatin This helps the pie set without baking, giving it that delightful texture.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix Provides sweetness and a silky smooth base that complements the pumpkin.
- Pumpkin Purée Ensure you re using 100% pure pumpkin for the best flavor and texture.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice This spice blend adds warmth and seasonal depth, making your No Bake Pumpkin Pie irresistible.
For the Crust
- Graham Cracker Crust The buttery, crunchy crust is the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, enhancing every bite.
Optional Topping
- Whipped Cream A dollop on top adds a touch of elegance and extra creaminess to this delightful pie.
How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Pie
- Combine gelatin and milk: In a small saucepan, add 1 cup of milk. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes without stirring; this helps the gelatin bloom for a perfect texture.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan on the stove over medium-low flame. Slowly heat the gelatin mixture, stirring frequently until the gelatin is fully dissolved, which should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature for at least 15 minutes.
- Whisk the pudding: In a large bowl, pour in the cooled gelatin mixture along with the two boxes of vanilla pudding mix. Whisk vigorously until the pudding has dissolved and the mixture is smooth, with no lumps remaining.
- Prepare the pumpkin blend: In a second bowl, whisk together the 15-ounce can of pumpkin purée and the 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice until well combined and fragrant, reminiscent of cozy fall days.
- Fold and fill: Gently fold the pumpkin mixture into the gelatin mixture until everything is evenly incorporated and you achieve a beautiful, creamy filling. Scrape this luscious filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula for an inviting finish.
- Chill: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator until firm, which takes at least 4 hours or can be left overnight. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream if desired for that extra touch of sweetness!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a festive flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
No Bake Pumpkin Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious pie and explore different flavors and textures that will surprise your family and friends!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free gelatin for a luscious vegan dessert.
This twist creates a delightful, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. - Spiced Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the pumpkin mixture for a warm kick.
The subtle heat balances the sweetness perfectly, making it an exciting choice for adventurous palates! - Nutty Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added crunch.
This variation adds a wonderful texture and a nutty richness that complements the creamy pie beautifully. - Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it on top before serving for a decadent flair.
The combination of chocolate and pumpkin is simply divine and will elevate your dessert to another level! - Maple Sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of sugar in the pudding mix for a rich, autumnal sweetness.
This swap enhances the natural flavors of the pumpkin and spices, creating a more complex taste. - Coconut Cream Topping: Replace whipped cream with whipped coconut cream for a tropical twist.
It offers a creamy, luxurious topping that pairs wonderfully with the spiced pumpkin filling. - Fruit Infusion: Fold in 1 cup of mashed bananas or pureed apples into the pumpkin mixture for a fruity addition.
This will not only add sweetness but also make the filling extra creamy and flavorful! - Graham Cracker Alternatives: Use crushed Oreo cookies or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust for a unique flavor.
These alternatives introduce a chocolatey richness that beautifully contrasts the spiced pumpkin filling.
Expert Tips for No Bake Pumpkin Pie
- Gelatin Blooming: Always let gelatin sit with the milk for 5 minutes. This key step ensures the pie sets perfectly without any lumps.
- Vigorously Whisk: Whisk the pudding mix into the gelatin until completely smooth. Overlooking this step can leave you with an uneven texture in your No Bake Pumpkin Pie.
- Pumpkin Purée Check: Make sure to use pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling. The differences in seasoning can affect the pie s flavor significantly.
- Chill Time Matters: Don t rush the chilling process. Allowing the pie to set for at least 4 hours ensures it achieves the creamy firmness you re looking for.
- Graham Cracker Crust Choices: If you re feeling adventurous, try making your own crust with crushed graham crackers and melted butter for a fresher taste!
How to Store and Freeze No Bake Pumpkin Pie
Fridge: Keep your No Bake Pumpkin Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best quality and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid refreezing once it s been thawed to maintain texture.
Reheating: No reheating is necessary; serve chilled! Add fresh whipped cream right before serving for a delightful touch.
Make Ahead Options
If you re a busy home cook looking to streamline your dessert game, this No Bake Pumpkin Pie is the perfect recipe to make ahead! You can prepare the pie filling up to 24 hours in advance just follow the steps until you chill it. After pouring the creamy filling into the graham cracker crust, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent any absorption of odors from your fridge. When you re ready to serve, simply garnish with whipped cream right before diving in. This way, you ll have a delicious, stress-free dessert ready to impress at your gatherings or family dinners, while saving precious time!
What to Serve with No Bake Pumpkin Pie?
As autumn leaves crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, pairing your delightful dessert with complementary dishes will elevate your cozy gatherings.
- Spiced Hot Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider enhances the fall flavors, creating a comforting atmosphere that resonates with the season.
- Candied Pecans: These sweet, crunchy bites add a delightful texture contrast to the smooth pie, making each mouthful a delightful surprise.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: The zesty flavor of ginger snaps perfectly complements the creamy pumpkin and spices, making for a nostalgic treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the pie s texture.
- Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup; its velvety richness and spices will harmonize wonderfully with the pie.
- Honey Graham Crackers: Simple yet effective, these can serve as a side to echo the crust and enhance the sweet experience.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a refreshing bite that balances the sweetness of the pie, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
- Coffee or Espresso: Perfectly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso can cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of both your pie and any accompanying treats.
Indulging in these pairings can make your dessert experience even more enjoyable, celebrating the bliss of homemade goodness.
No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your No Bake Pumpkin Pie, make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin purée check the label to avoid any added spices or sugar. Canned pumpkin can be a time-saver, but if you re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting fresh pie pumpkins and pureeing the flesh.
How should I store my No Bake Pumpkin Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. This ensures that the flavors develop beautifully without compromising its creamy texture.
Can I freeze No Bake Pumpkin Pie?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, first cut the pie into slices and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped slices into an airtight container or wrap them in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your pie can last up to 2 months in the freezer, but it s best enjoyed within the first month for optimal taste.
What should I do if my pie doesn t set properly?
Don t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your pie hasn t set, it might be because the gelatin didn t bloom properly. Always allow the gelatin to sit in the milk for at least 5 minutes before heating. If it still doesn t firm up after chilling for a sufficient time, you can carefully reheat the pie mixture, dissolve more gelatin (1/2 teaspoon in a few tablespoons of warm water), then mix it back in. Chill it again until it firms up.
Is this No Bake Pumpkin Pie safe for my pets?
I recommend keeping this No Bake Pumpkin Pie away from pets. While plain pumpkin is safe for dogs and cats in moderation, the sugar, whipped cream, and gelatin included in the recipe can be harmful to their health. Always consult your vet if you re unsure about specific ingredients.
Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker?
Very much so! If you want to switch things up, you can try using an Oreo crust for a chocolatey twist or a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just ensure whichever crust you choose complements the creamy filling of your No Bake Pumpkin Pie!
Enjoy making your pie, and remember, the more the merrier when it comes to sharing delicious desserts!



