Pumpkin Fluff Recipe Made In 5 Minutes (Easy No-Bake Pumpkin Dessert Dip)

This pumpkin fluff has all the classic pumpkin spice flavors from a pumpkin pie and the light and airy texture of my strawberry fluff salad. This is a no-bake pumpkin dessert dip that's quick to make with only 5 ingredients! The result is a sweet and fluffy pumpkin dip that’s perfect for scooping with graham crackers or vanilla wafers. It's the best for fall get-togethers with friends, bringing to a potluck, or if you just want an easy family-friendly treat! 

Why I Love This Pumpkin Fluff

Whenever I’m craving something with pumpkin spice flavor but don’t want to turn on the oven, this pumpkin fluff dip is the answer. It has all the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie, but in a light, creamy, no-bake dessert that comes together in minutes. The texture is fluffy and airy, and the flavor is festive and sweet. 

Another reason I love this recipe is how versatile it is. I can prepare it ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge until guests arrive, then set it out with graham crackers or vanilla wafers for dipping. It's one of those dips that keeps everyone hanging out around the table, and it disappears fast! 

This recipe is festive enough to make for Thanksgiving or a fall potluck, but it’s also easy enough to whip up on a weeknight when the pumpkin craving hits. This is one of those easy pumpkin dessert recipes I find myself coming back to again and again all season long, and I know you will too! 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 can pumpkin purée
• 1 tub Cool Whip
• 1 packet instant pudding (vanilla or cheesecake flavor works best)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

How To Make Pumpkin Fluff

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin purée, instant pudding mix, pumpkin spice, and Cool Whip. 

Step 2: Mix Until Smooth

Mix everything together until creamy and evenly blended. You don't want any lumps, but also don't want to overmix it, so gently fold the ingredients to incorporate them together.

Step 3: Chill the Fluff

This step is optional, but I do think it helps the flavors develop even more.

All I recommend doing is covering the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerating it for 2–3 hours.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the dip into bowls or a large serving dish and serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or any dippers of your choice.

Expert Tips 

• Choose the Right Pudding Flavor– Vanilla pudding keeps things classic, but cheesecake-flavored pudding adds extra tang that makes the fluff taste richer. Avoid chocolate pudding—it overpowers the pumpkin.
• Don’t Use Pumpkin Pie Filling – Make sure to grab plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which already has sugar and spices. Using the filling will make the fluff overly sweet and throw off the balance of flavors.
• Chill for Best Texture – The pudding mix needs a couple of hours in the fridge to fully hydrate and set. Without this chill time, the fluff will lose its texture and won’t scoop as nicely.
• Fold, Don’t Overmix – To keep the Cool Whip airy, fold it gently with a rubber spatula into the pumpkin mixture instead of stirring aggressively. Overmixing deflates it, giving you a denser texture.
• Make It Ahead – This fluff keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead for holiday dinners. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
• Serving Ideas – I love it as a dip with graham crackers or nilla wafers, but it’s also great layered in parfait glasses with crushed cookies or even spooned into a pie crust as a no-bake pumpkin pie.

Variations To Try

• Pumpkin Cheesecake Fluff – Swap in cheesecake pudding mix for a tangy twist, then sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs on top for that classic cheesecake vibe.
• Add Chocolate – Fold in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving for a sweet and chocolatey upgrade.
• Holiday Spiked Version – Add a splash of bourbon, rum extract, or even pumpkin spice liqueur for an adult-friendly dessert at holiday gatherings. This version gets the party started! 
• Healthier Pumpkin Fluff – Make it lighter by using sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping. You can also control the sweetness by using less sugar or a touch of maple syrup instead of extra sugar.
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Fluff – Use a dairy-free whipped topping and a thick nondairy milk (like canned coconut milk or oat milk) in place of regular milk. Just use less liquid so the pudding sets properly.
• Classic Fluff Style – Mix in mini marshmallows to turn it into a traditional fluff salad that’s extra fun for potlucks and family get-togethers. Kids love this version! 
• Add a Crunch – Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or candied nuts for a little texture and a nutty balance to the creamy filling.

Pumpkin Fluff FAQs

Can I freeze pumpkin fluff?

I don't recommend freezing because it changes the texture of the pudding and whipped topping, making the fluff watery once thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge within a few days.

How long does pumpkin fluff last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, pumpkin fluff will stay fluffy and fresh for about 3–4 days. Be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Can I make pumpkin fluff ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this is one of those no-bake pumpkin desserts that’s even better when made ahead. Preparing it the night before gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to set.

What can I serve pumpkin fluff with besides graham crackers?

Pumpkin fluff dip pairs well with vanilla wafers, gingersnaps, pretzels, vanilla Oreos, or apple slices. It also makes a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, or even as a layer in a trifle.

Can I make pumpkin fluff dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free whipped topping and pair it with instant pudding that’s compatible with nondairy milk. Coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk can work, but use slightly less than the package calls for so the pudding sets properly.

Does pumpkin fluff need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, pumpkin fluff should always be kept chilled until serving so it holds its airy texture. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Can I make pumpkin fluff without pudding mix?

Yes, but keep in mind instant pudding mix is the easiest way to get that fluffy, stabilized texture. With that said, you can make pumpkin fluff from scratch with a simple cream cheese base. Beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 cup pumpkin purée, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the pumpkin mixture. The flavor will be slightly richer and the texture a little lighter compared to the pudding version, but it’s still a delicious and fluffy fall dessert.

My Final Thoughts

This pumpkin fluff recipe is the ultimate easy fall dessert. Creamy, light, and spiced just right, it's a treat that adults and kids will both love. Whenever I serve it at family get-togethers, my nieces and nephews are fighting with my sister and brother-in-law over who gets the last bite!

Whether you serve this at a holiday party or whip it up for a weeknight pumpkin fix, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Leave a comment and review below if you make it! If you're looking for another dessert dip that's perfect for the fall season, check out my pecan pie dip.

More Pumpkin Desserts To Try

• Hilly's pumpkin pie
• Pumpkin cream cheese dip
• No bake pumpkin pie
• Pumpkin cream cheese muffins