Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin Delight Lush is a creamy, layered dessert perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you crave a sweet, spiced treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake layer, and smooth pumpkin topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and enjoy.
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 together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Pour this mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and press down firmly to form an even crust.
- Step 2: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and well combined. Slowly add 1½ cups of the whipped topping and continue beating on medium speed until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the next layer.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the instant vanilla pudding mix with the evaporated milk until it begins to set. Then, blend in the pure pumpkin and pumpkin spice until smooth.
- Step 5: Gently fold ½ cup of the whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture. Spread this layer evenly over the cream cheese layer in the dish.
- Step 6: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer to cover it completely. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
- Step 7: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with toasted coconut flakes.
- Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a spicier crust.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness and richness.
Storage
Store the Pumpkin Delight Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, serve chilled. If desired, you can gently stir any separated whipped topping before serving. This dessert does not freeze well, as the whipped topping may separate on thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Fresh pumpkin can be used if cooked and pureed until smooth, but canned pumpkin offers consistent moisture and sweetness, so adjustments to the recipe may be needed to maintain the right texture.
Is this dessert suitable for make-ahead entertaining?
Yes, this dessert can be made up to a day in advance, making it a convenient option for parties and gatherings. Just keep it refrigerated and add pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy.
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Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert is a creamy, layered treat featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese cheesecake layer, and a spiced pumpkin pudding topping, all adorned with whipped topping and crunchy pecans. This no-bake dessert is perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations, combining classic pumpkin flavors with a luscious texture.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 16 oz whipped topping (thawed), divided
Pumpkin Layer
- 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
- Prepare the crust: In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Pour this mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and press down evenly to form the crust layer.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and combined. Then, beat in 1½ cups of whipped topping on medium speed until well incorporated.
- Assemble the cheesecake layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Refrigerate this layer while you prepare the pumpkin pudding layer.
- Prepare the pumpkin pudding layer: In a mixing bowl, beat instant vanilla pudding mix with evaporated milk until thickened. Next, beat in the pure pumpkin and pumpkin spice until fully blended.
- Combine pumpkin layer with whipped topping: Fold ½ cup of the whipped topping into the pumpkin pudding mixture gently until smooth. Spread this pumpkin layer evenly over the cheesecake layer in the dish.
- Add the final whipped topping layer and garnish: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the pumpkin layer to create a fluffy top. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the whipped topping.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 2 hours or until well set before serving to allow the layers to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to ensure creamy texture.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix is key to setting the pumpkin layer quickly without baking.
- Can be made a day ahead to enhance flavors and save time.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with toasted coconut flakes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin dessert, no bake dessert, layered dessert, pumpkin spice dessert, thanksgiving dessert, graham cracker crust, cream cheese dessert
