A slice of Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie with a graham cracker crust, creamy layers, whipped topping, and pecan garnish.

The fall season calls for cozy flavors, easy baking hacks, and festive desserts that make your kitchen smell like the holidays. Enter the Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie—a no-bake, low-effort, and high-reward treat that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween gatherings, or even just a sweet weekend indulgence. Made with only five ingredients, this recipe brings together creamy pumpkin spice pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust in the most delightful way. And the best part? You won’t even need to turn on the oven.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Chewy Pumpkin Cookies Recipe for another quick fall dessert.

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Why This Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie Is a Must-Try This Fall

A Seasonal Twist on Classic Pumpkin Desserts

While traditional pumpkin pie will always have a spot on the holiday table, this layered Jello version offers a fun and lighter alternative. It’s airy, not overly spiced, and feels just indulgent enough without being heavy. The use of pumpkin spice pudding gives you that familiar flavor, but with a unique texture and presentation that stands out.

Perfect for Holidays, Potlucks, and No-Fuss Prep

If you’re hosting or attending a fall event, this pie is a game-changer. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare and can be chilled overnight, making it a solid make-ahead option. Plus, there’s no baking required—freeing up valuable oven space during Thanksgiving or Christmas cooking marathons.

The Magic of Layers: Texture, Flavor, and Presentation

This pie’s charm lies in its distinct layers:

  1. Base layer: silky pumpkin spice pudding
  2. Middle layer: a fluffy mix of pudding and whipped topping
  3. Top layer: a smooth, cloud-like Cool Whip crown

Each bite brings a combination of textures and flavors that feel surprisingly complex for such a simple dessert. It’s a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is pretty.

Don’t miss our Pumpkin Spice Waffles Recipe to complete your seasonal menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie

Core Five Ingredients You Likely Have On Hand

Here’s what you need for the basic version of this recipe:

IngredientAmount
Graham cracker crust (store-bought)1 (9-inch)
JELL-O Pumpkin Spice Instant Pudding Mix2 boxes (3.4 oz each)
Whole milk2 cups
Pumpkin pie spice¼ tsp
Cool Whip, thawed1 (8 oz) tub

This combo gives you the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and spiced—without needing to open a can of pumpkin purée or worry about baking.

Discover great ideas like our Mini Keto Pumpkin Pie Recipe if you’re watching carbs.

Optional Upgrades: Nuts, Crust Variations, and Drizzle Ideas

  • Garnish: Chopped pecans or caramelized pecans add a delightful crunch.
  • Crust swaps: Try Oreo, chocolate cookie, gingersnap, or Nilla wafer crusts for a flavor twist.
  • Toppings: Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce. A dusting of cinnamon sugar makes it sparkle.

Substitution Tips: What to Do if You Can’t Find Pumpkin Spice Pudding

Can’t find the seasonal pudding? No worries. Use vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix and bump up the pumpkin pie spice to about 1 tsp. You’ll get a similar flavor with ingredients you can find year-round.

Check out our Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip Recipe for another creative take on pumpkin spice flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Layering the Perfect Jello Pie

Prepping the Crust: Store-Bought vs. Homemade Options

Store-bought graham cracker crusts save time, but making your own isn’t hard. Crush graham crackers (or your cookie of choice), mix with melted butter and a bit of sugar, press into a pie dish, and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let it cool before layering.

Discover great ideas like our Pumpkin Loaf Recipe for other autumn classics.

Creating the Layers: Pudding, Creamy Filling, Whipped Topping

  1. Mix it up: In a medium bowl, whisk dry pudding mix, milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
  2. Layer 1: Spread half of this mix into your prepared crust.
  3. Layer 2: Fold half the Cool Whip into the remaining pudding. Spread this over the first layer.
  4. Layer 3: Top with the remaining Cool Whip.

Tips for Assembling a Visually Stunning Dessert

  • Use an offset spatula for clean, even layers.
  • Chill for at least 4–6 hours for firm slices.
  • Sprinkle chopped pecans or drizzle caramel right before serving for extra flair.

Check out our Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling for more sweet layered treats.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Serving Tips

How Long to Chill for Best Results

The secret to a perfectly sliceable pie is patience. After layering, chill the pie for 4 to 6 hours—or ideally overnight. This gives each layer time to set up properly, making for clean, defined cuts when serving. If you’re in a rush, you can place it in the freezer for about 1 hour, but avoid freezing it solid, or you’ll lose that silky pudding texture.

Can You Freeze It? What to Expect

While technically freezable, freezing isn’t recommended unless absolutely necessary. The pudding may separate or develop an icy texture, and the crust can become soggy once thawed. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Drinks, Toppings, and Pairings

Pair your pumpkin spice pie with warm fall drinks like:

  • Pumpkin spice latte
  • Hot apple cider
  • Cinnamon chai tea

Garnish ideas:

  • Whipped cream dollops
  • Caramel drizzle
  • A dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon sugar
  • A side scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream

Looking for inspiration? Try our Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer to serve with this dessert.

Common Mistakes and Expert Tips for Success

Preventing Soggy Crusts and Runny Layers

A soggy crust is the ultimate no-bake party foul. To avoid it:

  • Use a thick graham cracker crust that’s firmly packed.
  • Chill thoroughly before serving. Cutting into the pie too early can result in messy slices.
  • Avoid overmixing the pudding and Cool Whip; overdoing it can cause the mixture to deflate and lose structure.

Making It Look Bakery-Worthy with Simple Touches

Want that Instagram-worthy pie? Try these:

  • Use a piping bag to swirl the top layer of Cool Whip.
  • Add a ring of crushed pecans or gingersnap crumbs around the edge.
  • Chill the pie in a glass pie dish to show off the pretty layers.

Check out our Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip Recipe for another show-stopping dessert idea.

Kid-Friendly and Allergen-Friendly Adjustments

Make it family- and guest-friendly with a few tweaks:

  • Use a gluten-free crust for guests with sensitivities.
  • Replace dairy milk with almond or oat milk, though the texture may be a bit thinner.
  • For nut-free households, skip the pecan garnish or sub in chocolate chips or graham cracker crumbs.

Don’t miss our Oatmilk Pumpkin Spice Creamer for a dairy-free fall drink pairing.

FAQs About Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie

Can I use vanilla pudding instead of pumpkin spice?

Yes! If pumpkin spice pudding isn’t available, vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix makes a great base. Simply add 1 to 1½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice to replicate that autumn flavor. The result will still be rich, creamy, and fall-forward.

How far in advance can I make this pie?

This is a make-ahead marvel! You can prepare the pie up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it’s even better the next day. Just keep it covered in the fridge and garnish with toppings like pecans or caramel sauce right before serving.

What toppings pair best with pumpkin spice pie?

The creamy texture of the pie pairs well with:
Crunchy toppings like chopped or candied pecans
Sweet sauces like caramel or white chocolate drizzle
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
You could also add a ring of mini marshmallows for a fun twist.

Is this recipe gluten-free or can it be made that way?

Yes, it can be made gluten-free. Just substitute the standard graham cracker crust with a gluten-free pie crust, which are available at most grocery stores. All other ingredients (pudding mix, Cool Whip, milk, spices) are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels for hidden ingredients.

Final Thoughts on This Easy No-Bake Pumpkin Pie

If you’re looking for a simple, stunning, and flavorful fall dessert, this Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie is the answer. With just five main ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum payoff, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your autumn baking rotation. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want to treat your family, this no-bake pie checks every box: festive, flavorful, and foolproof.

Don’t miss our Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Tangy Frosting for another crowd-pleasing seasonal recipe.

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Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie

A slice of Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie with a graham cracker crust, creamy layers, whipped topping, and pecan garnish.

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Layered Pumpkin Spice Jello Pie is an easy, no-bake fall dessert made with just five ingredients. Featuring creamy pumpkin spice pudding, fluffy Cool Whip, and a graham cracker crust, this pie is a festive favorite for holidays, potlucks, and cozy nights in.

  • Author: gemma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 ready-to-use graham cracker crust (9-inch)
  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes JELL-O Pumpkin Spice Instant Pudding Mix
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
  • Chopped pecans, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry pudding mix, whole milk, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
  2. Spread half of the pudding mixture into the graham cracker crust to form the first layer.
  3. Fold half of the Cool Whip into the remaining pudding mixture until combined.
  4. Spread the pudding-Cool Whip mixture over the first layer in the crust.
  5. Top with the remaining Cool Whip as the third layer.
  6. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top (optional).
  7. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

  • For a different flavor profile, try using a gingersnap or Oreo crust.
  • If pumpkin spice pudding is unavailable, substitute with vanilla pudding and increase the pumpkin pie spice to 1 tsp.
  • Chilling overnight gives the pie the best structure for slicing.
  • Decorate with caramel drizzle, chocolate sauce, or cinnamon sugar for extra flair.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 259 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 237 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 11 mg

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