If you are looking to wow your family and friends with a dessert that’s bursting with autumn goodness, then you are in for a treat with this Pumpkin Lush Recipe. It’s a luscious, layered pumpkin dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a spiced pumpkin pudding middle, all topped with fluffy whipped topping. This no-fuss delight is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a cozy, sweet bite of fall.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pumpkin Lush Recipe is a breeze, yet each one plays an essential role in creating those irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From the crunchy crust to the creamy pumpkin filling, everything comes together beautifully.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Provides a sweet, crunchy base that holds the dessert together.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust for balance.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Binds the crust ingredients while adding rich flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened (1 8 oz package): Creates a smooth, tangy layer that contrasts perfectly with the pumpkin.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer without grittiness.
- Whipped topping, divided (1 8 oz tub): Adds lightness and fluffiness, helping to balance richness.
- Pumpkin purée (1 15 oz can): The star ingredient—rich, earthy, and full of fall flavor.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 3.4 oz box): Gives the pumpkin layer a smooth, thick texture.
- Instant pumpkin spice or butterscotch pudding mix (1 3.4 oz box): Infuses warm spices that bring cozy autumn vibes.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Used to blend the pudding mixes smoothly with the pumpkin.
- Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon): Boosts the natural spice notes in the pumpkin filling for that signature flavor.
- Additional whipped topping and crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans for garnish (optional): Adds extra texture and visual appeal just before serving.
How to Make Pumpkin Lush Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you need it. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until all the crumbs are evenly coated and moldable. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a nice, even layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s fragrant and set, then allow it to cool completely. This crust is the perfect crunchy foundation for your layered masterpiece.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy with no lumps. Next, gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping to lighten up this rich layer. Once blended, evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. This layer adds a tangy richness that beautifully complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Step 3: Whip Up the Pumpkin Pudding Layer
Grab another bowl and whisk together the pumpkin purée, instant vanilla pudding mix, instant pumpkin spice pudding mix, cold milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Keep mixing until the pudding thickens and becomes velvety. Carefully spread this luscious pumpkin filling over the cream cheese layer, making sure it’s smooth and even. This spiced pumpkin layer is where all the seasonal magic happens!
Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping and Chill
Finally, spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer, smoothing out the surface to create a fluffy, cloud-like finish. Pop the entire dish into the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight, allowing all the flavors to meld and the dessert to fully set. This chilling step really lets the Pumpkin Lush Recipe shine, giving it that irresistible, sliceable texture.
How to Serve Pumpkin Lush Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, garnish your Pumpkin Lush with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added crunch or a handful of chopped pecans for a nutty twist. A little extra whipped topping on each slice makes it look as delightful as it tastes. A light dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice adds a final cozy touch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Side Dishes
This rich and creamy Pumpkin Lush pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears to balance out the sweetness. For gatherings, serve it alongside a cup of hot cider or warm coffee to enhance the autumnal flavors and create a comforting dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress with presentation? Serve individual portions in clear glass cups or mini mason jars to showcase the gorgeous layers. You can also create a festive trifle by layering Pumpkin Lush with some whipped cream and candied pecans in a large glass bowl for a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, cover the Pumpkin Lush tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this Pumpkin Lush Recipe due to the whipped topping, which can lose its texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, but if freezing is necessary, do so without the whipped topping and add that after thawing for a better texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not needed. Simply take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften the layers slightly for the best eating experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Yes, but fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth before using to maintain the right moisture and texture that canned pumpkin provides in this recipe.
Is it possible to make Pumpkin Lush Recipe vegan?
You can try vegan substitutes for cream cheese, whipped topping, and butter, but be mindful that pudding mixes often contain dairy, so check labels or use homemade pudding alternatives.
How long does Pumpkin Lush need to chill?
Chilling for at least four hours is important to allow the layers to set properly, but overnight chilling yields the best texture and flavor melding.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the Pumpkin Lush Recipe benefits from making ahead because the flavors develop as it sits, making it even tastier the following day.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crust?
A pecan shortbread crust makes a fantastic substitute that adds extra crunch and a buttery flavor, giving the dessert a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a dreamy, creamy, and delightfully spiced Pumpkin Lush Recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself to this wonderful taste of fall magic. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Print
Pumpkin Lush Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and No-Cook (baked crust combined with no-bake layered filling)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin Lush is a deliciously creamy layered dessert perfect for the fall season. It features a graham cracker crust baked to golden perfection, topped with a smooth cream cheese layer, a luscious pumpkin pudding filling, and finished with fluffy whipped topping. This easy-to-make recipe requires no complex cooking methods and is ideal for Thanksgiving or any autumnal gathering.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Pumpkin Layer
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pumpkin spice or butterscotch pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Garnish (Optional)
- Additional whipped topping
- Crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula.
- Prepare the pumpkin filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, instant vanilla pudding mix, instant pumpkin spice or butterscotch pudding mix, cold milk, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture thickens and is well combined. Spread this pumpkin filling over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add the whipped topping: Top the pumpkin layer with the remaining whipped topping and spread it out smoothly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill and serve: Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set properly. Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping, crushed graham crackers, chopped pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- This dessert improves in flavor and texture the longer it chills, making it an excellent make-ahead choice for holidays.
- For added crunch and flavor variation, consider using a pecan shortbread crust instead of the traditional graham cracker crust.
