Description

Pumpkin Lush is an easy, no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth pumpkin spiced cream cheese layer, and a fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for midweek comfort, this festive treat combines classic fall flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg with a creamy texture that sets in the fridge, making it a quick, delicious option for pumpkin lovers seeking a sweet, indulgent dessert with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

12 oz graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
15 oz pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Garnish (optional)

Additional whipped topping
Ground cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
Make the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Add pumpkin and spices: Add the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and the texture is smooth.
Layer pumpkin mixture: Spread the pumpkin cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the remaining pumpkin mixture until light and fluffy. Spread this whipped pumpkin layer evenly on top of the previous pumpkin layer.
Chill: Cover the dessert dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the layers are set and chilled.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired to enhance presentation and flavor.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
Chilling time can be extended overnight for a firmer set.
For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers.
Ensure pumpkin puree is plain without added spices for best control over flavor.
This dessert is best served cold and should be kept refrigerated until ready to serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Pumpkin Lush, no bake dessert, pumpkin dessert, layered dessert, graham cracker crust, fall dessert, pumpkin cream cheese, easy pumpkin recipe