Pumpkin Lush is a creamy, indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a smooth, whipped filling, all layered on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake dessert is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season with a refreshing twist on traditional pumpkin pie. Light, fluffy, and packed with warm spices, Pumpkin Lush is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering, holiday meal, or whenever you’re craving a fall-inspired treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect fall flavors: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates the ultimate autumn-inspired dessert.

• No-bake and easy: This dessert requires no baking, making it simple to prepare and perfect for busy days or holiday gatherings.

• Creamy and indulgent: The fluffy, creamy layers and crunchy crust make each bite a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

• Versatile: You can adjust the sweetness, spice level, or toppings to suit your taste.

• Make ahead: This dessert can be prepared the day before and refrigerated, making it ideal for meal prepping or planning ahead for a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the pumpkin layer:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

• 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the whipped cream layer:

• 1 ½ cups whipped topping (for topping)

• Optional: Additional cinnamon for garnish

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

Directions

For the crust:

1. Prepare the crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

2. Press the crust into a pan: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish (or a similar-sized pan) to form a firm, even crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to compact it.

3. Chill the crust: Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the next layers to let the crust firm up.

For the pumpkin layer:

1. Make the pumpkin filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground ginger (if using). Mix until fully combined.

2. Add the pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of whipped topping to the pumpkin mixture until everything is well combined and fluffy.

4. Layer the pumpkin mixture: Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

For the whipped cream layer:

1. Top with whipped cream: Spread the remaining 1 ½ cups of whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer. Smooth it out gently with a spatula.

2. Optional garnish: Dust the top with a little extra cinnamon for a touch of color and extra flavor.

Chill:

1. Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.

Serve:

1. Serve chilled: Once the dessert has set, slice it into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, pumpkin-filled layers!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 9-12 servings, depending on the size of the portions.

• Preparation time: 15-20 minutes (excluding chilling time)

• Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)

• Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Add nuts: Stir in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust mixture for extra texture and flavor.

• Sweetened condensed milk: For a richer pumpkin layer, replace part of the powdered sugar with sweetened condensed milk for added creaminess.

• Spiced whipped cream: For extra flair, make your own whipped cream and flavor it with a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg.

• Vegan version: Use a dairy-free whipped topping and cream cheese substitute to make this dessert vegan-friendly. You can also use graham crackers with no animal ingredients in the crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: While this dessert is best served fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. To thaw, transfer the dessert to the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Just make sure it’s stiff enough to hold its shape when spread over the layers.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s better to make it ahead of time so the flavors can meld together. Make it the night before and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before serving.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe, as pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar that could alter the flavor of the layers.

Can I add chocolate to this dessert?

For a fun twist, you can sprinkle some mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the whipped cream layer.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, you can replace the graham cracker crust with an Oreo crust, a shortbread crust, or even a pecan crust for a different flavor and texture.

Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert in individual serving dishes or mason jars. Just divide the layers evenly between the containers and chill as usual.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Lush is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin, spices, and creamy layers into a light, no-bake treat. With its rich, velvety pumpkin filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a perfect dessert for gatherings, holidays, or when you simply want to indulge in a delicious pumpkin treat. Chill, slice, and enjoy this delightful dessert that captures the best of autumn in every bite!

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