Name: Pumpkin Lush
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed pecan shortbread cookies; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional); For the cream cheese layer:; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip); For the pumpkin layer:; 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling); 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix; 1 ½ cups cold milk; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); For the topping:; 2 cups whipped topping; Optional toppings: chopped pecans or walnuts, crushed gingersnaps, cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for dusting

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required
Perfect for holiday entertaining
Light and creamy, yet full of fall flavor
Can be made ahead of time
Layers of texture from the crust to the creamy topping
Kid-friendly and crowd-approved
Stores well and tastes even better the next day
Easily feeds a group
Customizable with your favorite crust or toppings
A refreshing alternative to traditional pumpkin pie

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Graham cracker crumbs or crushed pecan shortbread cookies
Melted butter
Granulated sugar (optional, depending on crust)

For the layers:

Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
Instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix
Cold milk
Pumpkin pie spice
Ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Optional toppings:

Chopped pecans or walnuts
Crushed gingersnaps
Cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for dusting

Directions

Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs (or cookie crumbs) with melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
Cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in a portion of whipped topping. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Pumpkin layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, pudding mix, milk, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon until thickened. Spread gently over the cream cheese layer.
Top layer: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer.
Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle with chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Slice and serve cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 to 15 servings.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours minimum (overnight preferred)
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use a gingersnap or pecan cookie crust for extra seasonal flavor
Swap vanilla pudding for butterscotch or cheesecake flavor
Use freshly whipped cream instead of whipped topping for a homemade touch
Add a caramel drizzle before serving
Layer in crushed toffee or chocolate chips for a twist
Make individual servings in jars or cups for a fun presentation
Add a hint of maple syrup to the pumpkin layer for depth

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will continue to develop.

Freezing: You can freeze Pumpkin Lush for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Note that texture may slightly change upon thawing.

Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served chilled—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

No, use plain pumpkin purée. Pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, which could alter the flavor and texture of the dish.

What type of pudding should I use?

Instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix works best. Avoid cook-and-serve varieties for this no-bake dessert.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, it’s actually better when made the night before. The layers set and the flavors blend beautifully overnight.

Is real whipped cream okay to use?

Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized so it holds up well in the layers. You’ll need about 3–4 cups whipped.

What’s the best crust option?

Graham crackers, gingersnaps, or pecan shortbread cookies all work well. Choose based on your preferred flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for the crust and ensure the pudding mix is gluten-free.

How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for firm layers and full flavor development.

Can I add a layer of nuts or cookies in between?

Yes, a sprinkle of crushed nuts or cookies between layers adds great texture.

What’s the texture like?

It’s creamy, fluffy, and light, similar to a mousse or pudding, with a soft but structured base.

Is this overly sweet?

No, it’s sweet but well-balanced thanks to the tangy cream cheese and earthy pumpkin.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Lush is the ultimate fall dessert when you’re craving something easy, elegant, and irresistibly creamy. With its luscious layers, spiced pumpkin flavor, and buttery crust, it offers all the comfort of pumpkin pie with none of the fuss. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or just because, this no-bake dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite.