Pumpkin Lush Recipe

The Creamiest Pumpkin Lush Recipe for Fall Indulgence

Autumn whispers secrets of comfort through this decadent pumpkin lush dessert that promises pure indulgence.

Layers of creamy goodness await your taste buds with each delightful spoonful.

Smooth cream cheese blends perfectly with silky pumpkin, creating a heavenly texture.

Crisp graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch beneath the velvety filling.

Warm spices dance elegantly through each bite, evoking memories of cozy family gatherings.

Whipped topping crowns this magnificent treat with a cloud-like finish.

We promise this dessert will become your new seasonal obsession that everyone will request at potlucks and holiday celebrations.

Pumpkin Lush Storage And Reheat Tips For Later

  • Store the pumpkin lush in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Wrap the dessert tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month, ensuring no air pockets that could cause freezer burn.
  • Move the frozen dessert to the refrigerator overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the layers.
  • Always serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. The layers will stay firm and delicious when kept cool.

Great Additions for Pumpkin Lush

  • Savor Seasonal Spiced Cider: A warm, spiced apple cider complements the pumpkin's rich, autumnal flavors and echoes the dessert's warm spice notes.
  • Pair with Creamy Bourbon: A smooth bourbon with caramel undertones enhances the dessert's creamy texture and highlights the nutty pecan topping.
  • Match with Cinnamon Coffee: A hot cinnamon-infused coffee brings out the pumpkin spice elements and provides a cozy, comforting accompaniment to the lush dessert.
  • Enjoy Vanilla Chai Latte: The spicy-sweet chai creates a harmonious blend with the pumpkin's warmth, adding depth to the dessert's complex flavor profile.

Pumpkin Lush Sweet Styles

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Lush: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies. Use certified gluten-free ingredients for all layers.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Dessert: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream, use coconut whipped topping, and replace half-and-half with coconut milk. Swap butter for coconut oil in the crust.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Treat: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, choose sugar-free pudding mix, and opt for a sugar-free whipped topping to reduce overall sugar content.
  • Nut-Free Version: Eliminate pecans from the topping, replace with toasted coconut flakes or seed crumbles for added crunch and texture.

FAQs

  • What ingredients can I substitute if I don't have graham crackers?

You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or gingersnap cookies as alternatives for the crust.

  • Is this dessert suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be appropriate for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. Consider using gluten-free graham crackers and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.

  • Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this pumpkin lush can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and add the pecan topping just before serving to maintain crunch.

  • How do I prevent my layers from mixing when spreading?

Use a clean, offset spatula and spread each layer gently. Ensure the previous layer is firm and chilled before adding the next layer to help maintain distinct, clean layers.

Pumpkin Lush That’s Cool, Creamy, And Dreamy

  • Quick and Easy Dessert: Whip up this pumpkin lush in just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy home bakers who want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy layers and sweet, spiced pumpkin flavor, making this dessert a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations.
  • No-Bake Comfort: Skip the oven hassle with this no-bake recipe that offers a rich, indulgent dessert experience without complicated cooking techniques, ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Seasonal Sensation: Celebrate autumn's flavors with a dessert that captures the essence of pumpkin spice, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious and impressive sweet treat.

Pumpkin Lush Layer Mix

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs, Granulated Sugar, Unsalted Butter: Classic base that provides a sweet, crunchy foundation with rich buttery flavor. Use fresh graham crackers for best texture. Butter helps bind ingredients and adds richness.
Creamy Layers Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Confectioners Sugar: Smooth, sweet base for cheesecake layer. Choose full-fat cream cheese for best consistency. Confectioners sugar ensures smooth blending.
  • Canned Pumpkin Puree, Pumpkin Spice, Instant Vanilla Pudding, Half-and-Half: Signature autumn flavor profile with creamy texture. Pure pumpkin puree offers authentic taste. Instant pudding helps stabilize and thicken the layer.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Whipped Topping, Chopped Pecans: Light, airy finish with nutty crunch. Use cold whipped topping for easy spreading. Toasted pecans enhance overall flavor and add delightful texture.

Pumpkin Lush Assembly Steps

Step 1: Prepare The Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter in a bowl.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan, creating an even layer that will serve as the delicious foundation for your dessert.

Step 2: Craft The Cream Cheese Layer

Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar until the mixture becomes silky smooth.

Gently fold in whipped topping, then spread this creamy layer evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Develop The Pumpkin Pudding Layer

Combine in a mixing bowl:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Pumpkin spice
  • Vanilla pudding mix
  • Half-and-half

Whisk these ingredients until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

Carefully fold in whipped topping, then spread this luscious pumpkin layer over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Add Final Decorative Touches

Cover the entire dessert with a generous layer of whipped topping.

Sprinkle chopped pecans across the surface for added crunch and visual appeal.

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to set and flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve And Enjoy

Remove from refrigerator, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

This dessert offers a perfect blend of creamy textures and autumnal flavors that will delight everyone at the table.

Pumpkin Lush Layering Tips

  • Swap graham crackers with gingersnap cookies or crushed shortbread for a unique flavor twist that complements the pumpkin.
  • Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping to create a lighter, more diet-friendly dessert without sacrificing taste.
  • Toast ground pecans or add a dash of cinnamon to the pumpkin layer for deeper, more complex autumn-inspired notes.
  • Prepare this dessert up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and develop richness.
  • Let the dessert chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the layers set properly and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
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Pumpkin Lush Recipe

Pumpkin Lush Recipe


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4.9 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy layers of Pumpkin Lush dessert blend classic autumn flavors into an irresistible treat that dances between sweet and spicy. Chilled perfection awaits with each spoonful, inviting you to savor seasonal comfort in pure deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
  • 1 cup half-and-half

Topping and Garnish Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whipped topping
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with sugar and melted butter, creating a compact base layer. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, ensuring an even and smooth foundation.
  2. Whip cream cheese until velvety, gradually incorporating confectioner’s sugar. Gently fold in prepared whipped topping, maintaining a light and airy texture. Carefully spread this creamy mixture over the graham cracker crust, creating a uniform cheesecake layer.
  3. Combine pumpkin puree with warming pumpkin spice, instant vanilla pudding mix, and smooth half-and-half. Stir until the mixture thickens and develops a rich, silky consistency. Delicately fold in additional whipped topping to enhance the filling’s lightness.
  4. Spread the pumpkin pudding mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, creating a vibrant autumnal surface.
  5. Crown the dessert with a generous layer of whipped topping, creating soft peaks. Scatter chopped pecans across the top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
  6. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing layers to set and flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.
  • Reduce sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a diabetic-friendly version.
  • Enhance flavor by toasting pecans briefly before sprinkling for a deeper, nuttier profile.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped cream for richer texture, ensuring ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Emily Harper

Emily Harper

Nutrition Consultant & Recipe Analyst

Expertise

Healthy Recipe Modification, Nutritional Analysis & Meal Planning, Global Cuisine & Dietary Adaptations​

Education

School: French Pastry School, Chicago, IL

Program: L’Art de la Pâtisserie

Focus: Intensive training in traditional French pastry techniques, baking theory, and confectionery arts. ​


Emily’s journey started in a pastry kitchen but took a detour into the world of health and flavor science.
Graduating from the French Pastry School and studying nutrition opened her eyes to a new mission: making healthy food taste like something you’d actually crave.
At Dining At Home, Emily’s the go-to for smart, feel-good recipes that don’t trade flavor for nutrition.
She’s all about adding a fresh spin on old favorites and finding small ways to make everyday meals a little brighter.
Outside of the kitchen, Emily is most at home walking forest trails, testing plant-based recipes, or sharing a picnic under a wide-open sky.

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