Dessert

Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon October 25, 2025October 25, 2025

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.

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a fluted edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has four visible layers: a crumbly golden brown crust at the bottom, followed by a white creamy layer, then a thick light orange layer, and topped with a fluffy white whipped cream layer sprinkled generously with chopped pecans. Some crumbs are scattered around the dessert on the plate. Behind the plate, there is a glass dish with the same dessert, showing the same layers and pecan topping, placed next to an apple and a yellow-striped kitchen towel. 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 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

A square slice of layered pumpkin dessert sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface, showing three visible layers: a crumbly light brown base, a smooth orange pumpkin filling in the middle, and a fluffy white whipped topping sprinkled with chopped nuts on top. The larger matching dessert in a clear glass rectangular dish is visible in the background, with the same layered pattern and nuts spread evenly on the whipped cream layer. There is a yellow and white checkered cloth and a small orange pumpkin placed beside the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.