If you’re searching for a show-stopping yet delightfully simple dessert, the Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a luscious, fluffy whipped cream base infused with warm pumpkin pie spice and swirled with real pumpkin puree, perfectly balanced by cinnamon and a hint of maple syrup. This beautiful board pairs that creamy cloud with crunchy graham crackers, spicy gingersnap cookies, buttery shortbread, and the bright burst of fresh apple slices and strawberries for a festive fall spread that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at. Whether for a cozy get-together or a casual treat, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a flavor-packed autumn paradise that’s bound to impress your guests and make your taste buds sing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe. Each item is simple but essential, bringing in textures and flavors that marry beautifully — from the creamy richness of heavy cream to the fresh crunch of seasonal fruit.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This is the creamy base for whipping into airy whipped cream that holds all the pumpkin spice magic.
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar, divided: Adds just the right touch of sweetness that balances the spices and freshness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the cream’s flavor with warm vanilla notes.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice + 2 tbsp pumpkin purée: The heart of the recipe, these layers create that unforgettable fall essence.
- 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tbsp maple syrup: Adds warmth and natural sweetness, complementing the pumpkin perfectly.
- Graham crackers: Crispy and slightly sweet, perfect for scooping up the whipped cream.
- Gingersnap cookies: Their spicy kick contrasts beautifully with the sweet cream.
- Shortbread cookies: Buttery and melt-in-your-mouth, rounding out the cookie trio.
- Fresh apple slices: Crisp and juicy, adding bright texture and tartness.
- Fresh strawberries: Sweet, colorful, and fresh, brilliant for visual appeal and balance.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe
Step 1: Whip Your Cream to Perfection
Start by pouring 1 ½ cups of the heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar, the vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until soft peaks form – this means when you lift the whisk, the cream holds a peak that gently falls over. This step creates your luscious, pumpkin-spiced whipped cream base that will take center stage on the board.
Step 2: Create the Pumpkin Puree Swirl
In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of pumpkin purée with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and the cinnamon. Gently fold in the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, whipping just enough to combine. Once ready, carefully dollop the pumpkin puree mixture onto the whipped cream base and use a spatula to create gentle swirls for a marbled effect that’s not only pretty but delicious.
Step 3: Assemble Your Cookie and Fruit Selection
Now it’s time to prepare your accompaniments. Lay out graham crackers, gingersnap cookies, and shortbread cookies on your serving board. Slice fresh apples thinly to maintain that satisfying crunch, and remove strawberry stems, leaving them whole for freshness and color. Arrange everything neatly but invitingly around and on top of the whipped cream swirls.
Step 4: Final Touches and Presentation
Give your board a finishing sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and a few extra berries or cookie crumbs for texture and visual interest. The goal here is to make your board as enticing as possible — a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This step turns simple ingredients into an elegant spread perfect for sharing.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe
Garnishes
To garnish your dessert board, think about adding a few toasted pecans or a light drizzle of honey. These small touches add a delightful crunch and extra depth of sweetness, complementing the spice profile beautifully. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream to boost the aroma and invite everyone to dive right in.
Side Dishes
While this board stands out on its own, pairing it with a warm apple cider or a lightly spiced chai tea elevates the experience. These drinks echo the autumn spices in the Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe, enhancing the flavors and warming you up on a chilly day.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe on a wooden charcuterie board or a large ceramic platter for a rustic look. Use small bowls for the whipped cream mixture or spread it directly on the board before adding the cookies and fruit. For a party, preparing individual mini boards or plates gives each guest their own personal fall treat to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), cover the board tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The whipped cream stays fresh for about 24 hours, but cookies may soften, so it’s best enjoyed as fresh as possible.
Freezing
Due to the whipped cream and fresh fruit, freezing the entire board is not recommended as textures will change. However, you can freeze leftover pumpkin puree and cookie dough separately for future use.
Reheating
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Just allow any refrigerated leftovers to sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving if they feel too firm.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly in this recipe and can save time during prep. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No worries. You can easily make your own blend by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This way, your Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe still gets that warm, spiced punch.
Can I substitute the cookies for gluten-free options?
Definitely. There are many gluten-free graham crackers and cookies available that will work wonderfully. The key is to keep a variety of textures and flavors to complement the cream and fruit.
How long will the whipped cream hold its shape on the board?
If kept chilled, the whipped cream maintains its texture for several hours. However, to avoid sogginess on the cookies and fruit, it’s best to assemble the board close to serving time.
Can I make this dessert board vegan?
With some tweaks, yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and select vegan or dairy-free cookies. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary, but it still makes for a delicious, plant-based treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the cozy combination of pumpkin spice whipped cream paired with crunchy cookies and bright fresh fruit. The Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe is a delightful way to bring warmth, flavor, and festivity to your table with minimal effort. It’s perfect for savoring the season with friends and family, no matter the occasion. So gather your ingredients, get your favorite board ready, and let this beautiful, tasty creation steal the show at your next gathering!
Print
Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board with Cookies and Fresh Fruit Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream Board is a delightful fall-themed dessert platter featuring richly flavored whipped creams accented with pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and pumpkin purée. Accompanied by a selection of graham crackers, gingersnap cookies, shortbread cookies, fresh apple slices, and strawberries, it’s perfect for entertaining or cozy autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
Whipped Cream Mixtures
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar, divided
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice + 2 tbsp pumpkin purée
- 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tbsp maple syrup
Accompaniments
- Graham crackers
- Gingersnap cookies
- Shortbread cookies
- Fresh apple slices
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare Vanilla Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will be the base whipped cream flavor.
- Prepare Pumpkin Spice Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée until stiff peaks form. This cream will have a rich pumpkin flavor.
- Prepare Cinnamon Maple Whipped Cream: (Optional step, if you desire) Alternatively, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup until thick and fluffy. Use this for an additional whipped cream variety.
- Assemble the Board: On a large serving board or platter, dollop or pipe the different whipped cream flavors in small bowls or directly on the board. Arrange graham crackers, gingersnap cookies, shortbread cookies, fresh apple slices, and fresh strawberries around the whipped cream varieties artistically.
- Serve: Invite guests to dip or spread the whipped cream onto the cookies and fresh fruit, enjoying a variety of seasonal flavors in this fun, interactive dessert board.
Notes
- Use chilled heavy cream for better whipping results.
- Adjust the sweetness in whipped cream to taste by adding more or less powdered sugar.
- The cinnamon maple whipped cream is optional but adds a nice flavor variation.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top of whipped cream before serving.
- Ensure fresh fruit is sliced just before serving to maintain freshness.
