Pumpkin Whipped Cream Topping – A Cozy Fall Delight
When the crisp autumn air rolls in and pumpkins start popping up everywhere, it’s only natural to want to weave that cozy flavor into everything you make. From lattes and pies to pancakes and waffles, there’s one simple way to add that touch of fall magic: Pumpkin Whipped Cream Topping. Fluffy, creamy, and infused with just the right amount of pumpkin and warm spice, this whipped cream takes even the simplest dessert to the next level.
Imagine topping your morning coffee with a generous swirl of spiced cream, spooning it onto a warm slice of pie, or using it as the crown jewel for pancakes on a chilly weekend morning. It’s quick, easy, and feels like a hug in dessert form.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 3 tablespoons pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (plus extra for dusting)
Instructions:
- Place a mixing bowl and beaters (or the whisk attachment of a stand mixer) in the fridge for about 10–15 minutes before starting. Chilled equipment helps the cream whip up fluffy.
- In the chilled bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks begin to form.
- Add the pumpkin purée, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Continue beating until medium-to-stiff peaks form. Don’t overmix, or the whipped cream will turn grainy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if desired.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Give it a quick whisk before serving again if it softens.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin spice or a dusting of cinnamon before serving for that extra cozy touch.
Tips & Tricks:
- For an ultra-light version, fold the pumpkin purée in by hand after whipping the cream to stiff peaks. This keeps the cream extra airy.
- Want a more decadent flavor? Add a tablespoon of maple syrup in place of some of the powdered sugar.
- Make sure you’re using plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.
Variations:
- Spiked version: Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adults-only treat.
- Chocolate twist: Sprinkle in a tablespoon of cocoa powder with the pumpkin spice for a chocolate-pumpkin cream.
- Sugar-free option: Use powdered monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar for a lighter topping.
Pumpkin Whipped Cream Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill mixing bowl and beaters for 10–15 minutes.
- Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add pumpkin purée, powdered sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice. Beat until medium-stiff peaks form.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 days.
- Dust with extra pumpkin spice before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- Spoon it over pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or pecan pie at Thanksgiving.
- Dollop onto hot cocoa, pumpkin spice lattes, or chai tea for a café-style finish.
- Layer it between graham crackers and chocolate pudding for a quick fall-inspired parfait.
- Spread on waffles or pancakes for a festive autumn breakfast.
Storage Information:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
- If the cream deflates, re-whip gently with a hand whisk.
- Not freezer-friendly, as whipped cream loses its texture when frozen.
FAQ:
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare the cream a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Can I use canned whipped cream? While you can fold pumpkin purée and spices into it, fresh homemade whipped cream tastes infinitely better.
- What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice? Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts for a homemade version.
History / Fun Facts:
Whipped cream has been enjoyed since the 16th century, originally referred to as “milk snow” in Europe. Pumpkin, a beloved symbol of autumn in North America, has been paired with spices for centuries—particularly by early settlers who combined indigenous pumpkins with European spices. This Pumpkin Whipped Cream Topping brings together both traditions, creating a sweet, spiced celebration of the harvest season.
