Dessert

Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe

Name: Pumpkin Delight Lush Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
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 (divided into 1½ cups and 2 cups); 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding; 12 oz can evaporated milk; 15 oz can pure pumpkin; 1½ tsp pumpkin spice; ¼ cup chopped pecans

ByOlivia Monroe October 24, 2025October 24, 2025

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Introduction

Pumpkin Delight Lush is a creamy, layered dessert that combines the smoothness of cheesecake with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice. This no-bake treat is perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you crave a festive, luscious dessert.

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with scalloped edges placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has four layers: a crumbly light brown crust at the bottom, a thick white creamy layer above it, followed by a smooth orange layer, and topped with a fluffy white whipped cream layer. The top is sprinkled with crushed nuts, mostly pecans, adding texture and color contrast. Behind it, a glass baking dish holds the rest of the dessert showing the same four distinct layers. To the side, there is a red apple and a white and yellow striped 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), divided
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 graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1½ cups of whipped topping and beat on medium speed until combined.
Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and evaporated milk until thickened. Then beat in the pumpkin and pumpkin spice until smooth.
Step 5: Fold ½ cup of whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture gently, then spread it evenly on top of the cheesecake layer.
Step 6: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top for a crunchy finish.
Step 7: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For added texture, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the top layer.
Use gingersnap crumbs instead of graham crackers for a spicier crust.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese layer.
For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and garnish with cinnamon or shaved chocolate instead.

Storage

Store the Pumpkin Delight Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the texture of the whipped topping layers. When ready to serve, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.

How to Serve

A square piece of layered dessert sits centered on a white plate with a gentle scalloped edge. The dessert has four distinct layers: a crumbly golden-brown base, a pale creamy white second layer, a thick middle layer of bright orange, and a thick, fluffy white top layer sprinkled generously with chopped nuts in various shades of brown. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, near a yellow and white striped towel and a glass dish holding the remaining dessert, showing the same four layers and nut topping. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch.

What can I use instead of instant pudding mix?

If you don’t have instant pudding mix, you can use homemade pudding made with cornstarch, sugar, milk, and vanilla, although the texture may differ slightly.