If you adore creamy desserts with a festive twist, this PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake will become your go-to treat all season long. It takes the tangy smoothness of classic cream cheese, wraps it in warm, spiced pumpkin, and finishes with a pillowy cloud of whipped topping—all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s easy enough for a weeknight sweet fix, but elegant enough for a holiday table.

PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is proof that simple ingredients can create an irresistible dessert. Every piece brings something essential—whether it’s ultra-smooth texture, extra creaminess, or just the right touch of pumpkin spice warmth.

PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese (8 oz., softened): The heart of the cheesecake, lending that signature velvety tang and the perfect creamy foundation.
Canned Pumpkin (1 cup): Pumpkin purée brings autumn’s favorite flavor and a gorgeous golden color—make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the deal, balancing the tang of the cream cheese and the earthiness of the pumpkin.
Pumpkin Pie Spice (1/2 tsp): The classic blend that infuses every bite with cozy, cinnamon-scented warmth.
COOL WHIP Whipped Topping (8 oz. tub, thawed, divided): Folded into the filling for lightness and used on top for that irresistible finish.
Ready-to-use Graham Cracker Crumb Crust (6 oz.): A crisp, slightly sweet base that brings crunch and balances the soft filling.

How to Make PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Base

Start by beating together the PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, canned pumpkin, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice using a hand mixer or stand mixer. You want everything to become beautifully blended, leaving you with a luxurious, orange-hued batter that already smells like autumn. The goal is complete smoothness, so scrape down the bowl as you go.

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in 2 and 1/2 cups of the thawed COOL WHIP whipped topping. This is where the magic happens—the cheesecake gets airy and light without losing its decadence. Be careful here; a gentle hand keeps your filling fluffy and dreamy.

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Spoon the creamy filling into your prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Don’t stress about perfection—those soft swirls add a homemade charm that makes the PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake irresistible.

Step 4: Chill Until Set

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the cheesecake is set and firm. This step is key for clean slices and that classic, rich texture. If you have time, letting it sit a bit longer makes it even dreamier.

Step 5: Top and Serve

Right before serving, crown your cheesecake with the remaining COOL WHIP for a luscious finish. A sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or even a dusting of cinnamon makes it look truly show-stopping.

How to Serve PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Garnishes

Go for a flourish of whipped topping, a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice, or a scatter of chopped pecans to give each slice a touch of elegance. For an even more festive look, try adding a few chocolate curls or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair each slice of PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with a cup of strong coffee, a chai latte, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re building a dessert platter, consider contrasting with fresh berries or crisp apple slices for extra flavor and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Mini cheesecakes in jars make for fun party desserts, and you can also use cookie cutters to create charming individual servings. For the holidays, try piping on whipped topping in rosettes or serving the cheesecake topped with sugared cranberries.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it refrigerated. It’ll stay beautifully fresh for up to 5 days—if it even lasts that long! This makes it so convenient for prepping ahead or nibbling on through the week.

Freezing

Good news: you can freeze this cheesecake! Simply wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (without the whipped topping) in plastic, then foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh whipped topping before enjoying.

Reheating

This PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, serving it well-chilled brings out its smooth, set texture and makes every bite extra refreshing.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of COOL WHIP?

Yes! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully; just whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it in as directed. Note that homemade cream may make the filling a touch softer, so chill thoroughly before slicing.

Do I need to bake the graham cracker crust?

No baking needed! Ready-to-use graham cracker crumb crusts are designed to hold up without oven time, which keeps this PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake truly no-fuss and perfectly no-bake.

Can I substitute low-fat cream cheese?

Low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese can be used if you prefer a lighter version, though the filling may turn out slightly less rich and dense. The flavor will still be deliciously satisfying!

Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely—just swap the regular ready-to-use crust for a gluten-free graham cracker crust, which you can find in most major grocery stores. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

How do I get neat slices when serving?

For smooth slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This allows the blade to glide neatly through the chilled filling, for picture-perfect wedges every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something a little magical about the simplicity and comfort of PHILADELPHIA No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. It’s quick to make, guaranteed to please, and always elicits those delighted sighs from anyone lucky enough to snag a slice. Give it a try, and let it become a favorite in your own kitchen too!