Introduction

Pumpkin Delight Lush is a creamy, layered dessert perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave a sweet treat. With a crunchy graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake, and spiced pumpkin layers topped with whipped topping and pecans, it’s both simple and impressive.

The image shows a single square piece of pumpkin dessert on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three visible layers: a crumbly light brown crust at the bottom, a thick middle layer of smooth orange pumpkin filling, and a top layer of fluffy white whipped cream sprinkled generously with chopped nuts. The dessert piece has a small bite taken out of one side. In the background, a large rectangular glass dish with the same dessert and a bright red apple next to a white and yellow striped cloth can be seen. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 tbsp granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
16 oz whipped topping, thawed
3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding
12 oz can evaporated milk
15 oz can pure pumpkin
1½ tsp pumpkin spice
¼ cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust.
Step 2: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and combined. Then, beat in 1½ cups of the whipped topping on medium speed until blended.
Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Refrigerate this layer while you prepare the next one.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the instant vanilla pudding mix with the evaporated milk until thickened. Stir in the pumpkin and pumpkin spice until fully combined.
Step 5: Fold ½ cup of the remaining whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture, then spread this layer over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
Step 6: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the pumpkin layer. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top.
Step 7: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow layers to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them on top.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the powdered sugar slightly in the cream cheese layer.
Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture for added warmth.

Storage

Store Pumpkin Delight Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften slightly over time but will remain delicious. For best texture, enjoy within two days. No reheating is necessary; serve chilled.

How to Serve

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a scalloped edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has four clear layers from bottom to top: a crumbly, golden-brown crust, a smooth white cream layer, a thick orange layer of pumpkin or sweet potato filling, and a top fluffy white layer likely whipped cream. The top is sprinkled with small pieces of chopped nuts. Crumbs from the crust are scattered lightly around the dessert on the plate. In the background, a larger rectangular dessert with the same layers is visible. A yellow and white textured cloth and a partially seen orange pumpkin add a cozy touch nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, Pumpkin Delight Lush can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until serving. This helps the layers set nicely and enhances the flavors.

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin?

You can use fresh pumpkin that’s been cooked and pureed, but make sure it’s well drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the dessert.

Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 76 reviews

Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert is a creamy, layered no-bake treat featuring a graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a spiced pumpkin pudding topping, finished with whipped topping and crunchy pecans. Perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 tbsp granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

Cream Cheese Layer

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1½ cups powdered sugar
16 oz whipped topping (thawed)

Pumpkin Layer

3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding
12 oz can evaporated milk
15 oz can pure pumpkin
1½ tsp pumpkin spice
½ cup whipped topping (from the 16 oz)

Topping

Remaining 2 cups whipped topping
¼ cup pecans (chopped)

Instructions

Prepare the crust: In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Make the cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and combined. Then, add 1½ cups of whipped topping and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and creamy.
Assemble the cream cheese layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the pumpkin layer.
Prepare the pumpkin layer: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the instant vanilla pudding mix and evaporated milk until thickened. Then, beat in the pure pumpkin and pumpkin spice until fully blended.
Combine pumpkin and whipped topping: Fold ½ cup of whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture gently to maintain a light, fluffy texture. Spread this pumpkin layer evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer.
Add the topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping evenly on top of the pumpkin layer. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for a crunchy finish.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow layers to set and flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, make sure the cream cheese and whipped topping are at room temperature before mixing.
You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts if preferred.
Use a flat-bottomed glass measuring cup or straight spatula to evenly press the crust and smooth the layers.
This dessert keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix.

Keywords: pumpkin dessert, no-bake dessert, layered dessert, pumpkin spice, graham cracker crust, cream cheese dessert