Pumpkin Lush Dessert – Easy & Irresistible Layers

There’s something about that quiet hum of conversation after Thanksgiving dinner — plates pushed back, coffee poured, and someone, always someone, asking, “Is there dessert?” That’s when this Pumpkin Lush Dessert steals the show. Cool, creamy, nutty, spiced just right… it’s the kind of sweet that makes the table fall silent for all the right reasons.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Lush Dessert

This no-bake, layered fall dessert is pure cozy comfort in a dish. You don’t need to turn on the oven or fuss with complicated steps. In just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have a rich, creamy, crowd-pleasing treat that chills to perfection.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any fall gathering, it’s got that golden mix of pumpkin, cream cheese, and spice, all on a graham cracker crust. Plus, it serves 15 — a true holiday hero.

Ingredients & Equipment

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 instant vanilla pudding mix
• 12 oz can evaporated milk
• 15 oz can pure pumpkin
• 1½ tsp pumpkin spice
• ¼ cup pecans, chopped

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small and large bowls
• Electric or stand mixer
• Silicone or rubber spoon

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until even and sandy.
2. Press into dish: Firmly press the crumb mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish using a flat-bottomed cup or your fingers.
3. Whip the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add 1½ cups of whipped topping and mix on medium until creamy.
4. Layer it on: Spread the cheesecake mixture over the crust. Chill in the fridge while you make the next layer.
5. Make pumpkin layer: In a clean bowl, beat instant pudding mix with evaporated milk until thickened. Then add pure pumpkin and pumpkin spice. Mix until smooth.
6. Fold and layer: Gently fold in ½ cup whipped topping. Spread pumpkin layer over the cheesecake layer.
7. Top it off: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
9. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Longer is even better!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Results

• Let cream cheese soften fully before mixing — it should dent easily with a finger press.
• Thaw whipped topping in the fridge, not the counter, to keep texture light.
• Use a flat-bottomed cup to pack the crust evenly.
• Chill between layers if you have time — it keeps them sharp and clean.
• Wipe your knife between slices for picture-perfect servings.
• Save a few pecans for last-minute garnish — they look beautiful just before serving.

Variations You Can Try

• Swap graham crackers for gingersnap crumbs for a spicier crust.
• Add mini chocolate chips between layers for a fun texture twist.
• Try butterscotch pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the whipped topping for sparkle.
• Make mini versions in mason jars — ideal for individual servings.
• Drizzle caramel sauce between the cheesecake and pumpkin layers.
• Use crushed vanilla wafers if graham isn’t your thing.

Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

Cover your dish tightly and refrigerate up to 4 days. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day. The flavors melt into each other and the texture becomes dreamy.

Freezing? You can — just know that texture may shift slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze individual portions, then let them thaw overnight in the fridge.

Pumpkin Lush Dessert Recipe Card

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More Such Recipes

If you love pumpkin treats, try these next:

• Frosted pumpkin bread with cream cheese frosting for a classic loaf twist
• Best pumpkin cheesecake bars for fall gatherings with a buttery crust
• Pumpkin scones with spiced glaze for cozy mornings — perfect with coffee
• Pumpkin pecan streusel torte with rich autumn flavors — fancy enough for guests

Recipe FAQs

Final Thoughts

If your fall dessert table needs something creamy, cool, and totally lovable, this Pumpkin Lush Dessert checks every box. It’s easy, make-ahead friendly, and a big win with both kids and adults.

Bring this to your next gathering or just make it for yourself — no judgment here. And if you’re looking for more cozy dessert ideas, check out my Pinterest or connect with the Kai Recipes kitchen on Facebook. Happy layering!