If you are looking for a dessert that combines creamy comfort with cozy fall flavors, then you will absolutely adore this Pumpkin Lush. It’s a luscious, layered treat that brings together a crunchy graham cracker crust, a dreamy pumpkin cream cheese layer, and fluffy whipped topping in perfect harmony. Every bite bursts with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, making this dish an irresistible celebration of autumn that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin Lush recipe relies on a handful of straightforward, accessible ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect texture and vibrant flavors. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the spice-kissed pumpkin filling and light whipped topping, every component adds something special.

12 oz graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy base that provides a sturdy yet tender foundation for all those luscious layers.

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crumbs together and adds richness to the crust without overpowering the other flavors.
1 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a silky smooth cream cheese layer.

8 oz cream cheese (softened): Delivers creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
15 oz pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that smells and tastes like fall in every bite, lending moisture and bright orange color.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warm spice essential for that classic pumpkin pie flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth with a sweet, nutty note that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, making the whole dessert taste rich and inviting.

1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Brings lightness and fluff to the top layer, making every spoonful feel like a cloud.
Additional whipped topping (for garnish, optional): For a pretty finish and an extra touch of indulgence.
Ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional): Sprinkled on top for visual appeal and a little more spice.

How to Make Pumpkin Lush

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. Then firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This crust will provide a lightly crisp and buttery base that supports the creamy layers above perfectly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until the texture is completely smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for getting that luscious, velvety layer that melds with the pumpkin so well.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Spices

Next, stir in the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract into your cream cheese base. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and silky smooth. This spicy pumpkin mixture brings that signature fall flavor that makes Pumpkin Lush such a standout dessert.

Step 4: Layer the Pumpkin Mixture

Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula to create an inviting, uniform layer that will soon be topped with fluffy whipped goodness.

Step 5: Fold in Whipped Topping

Fold the cup of whipped topping gently into the remaining pumpkin mixture until it’s light and airy. This step transforms the filling into a creamy and fluffy second layer. Spread this new mixture evenly on top of the pumpkin layer in your dish.

Step 6: Chill to Set

Cover your layered masterpiece with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This chilling time helps the Pumpkin Lush set beautifully, so the layers hold together while providing a cooler, more refreshing bite when served.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, add some extra whipped topping dollops and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to make your Pumpkin Lush look as stunning as it tastes. The garnish adds that perfect finishing touch to impress your guests or spoil yourself.

How to Serve Pumpkin Lush

Garnishes

Adding a swirl of whipped topping with a dusting of cinnamon on top is a simple way to make the Pumpkin Lush visually appealing and enhance its spiced aroma. You can also sprinkle roasted pecans or a few chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Serve Pumpkin Lush after a hearty fall meal as a sweet, comforting finale that everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

You can turn Pumpkin Lush into individual parfaits by layering the components in clear glasses and garnishing each with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. This presentation is perfect for parties and makes serving effortless yet elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Lush tightly covered in the refrigerator. It holds well for up to 3 days, during which the flavors meld even more wonderfully, and the layers remain deliciously creamy and firm.

Freezing

While freezing Pumpkin Lush is possible, it’s best to avoid it if you want to maintain the ideal texture. The whipped topping may become watery after thawing. If you do freeze it, cover it tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is meant to be enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Serve straight from the refrigerator for the best creamy, cool experience.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can roast fresh pumpkin and puree it yourself, but make sure it’s smooth and drained well to avoid extra moisture that could affect the texture of your Pumpkin Lush.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses graham cracker crumbs which typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies.

Can I substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream will add a fresh, rich touch and works beautifully as a substitute for store-bought whipped topping.

How long should I chill Pumpkin Lush before serving?

At least 2 hours is recommended to allow the layers to set properly. For best results, consider chilling it overnight to enhance the flavors and texture.

What if I want a stronger pumpkin spice flavor?

Feel free to increase the cinnamon or nutmeg slightly, or even add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to deepen the spiced notes in your Pumpkin Lush.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Lush, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to autumn desserts. Its cozy flavors, creamy layers, and delightful texture make it an absolute crowd-pleaser. So grab those ingredients, get layering, and enjoy every delicious bite with friends and family.

Pumpkin Lush Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 7 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Pumpkin Lush is a decadent no-bake layered dessert featuring a graham cracker crust topped with a creamy pumpkin-spiced cheesecake layer and a fluffy whipped topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations, combining classic pumpkin flavors with a smooth, indulgent texture.

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 Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.

Add Pumpkin and Spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and smooth.
Layer Pumpkin Mixture: Spread the pumpkin cheesecake layer evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top surface with a spatula for an even layer.
Add Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into any remaining pumpkin mixture if present until well incorporated and fluffy. Spread this whipped layer evenly over the pumpkin layer.

Chill: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours or until it is fully set and firm.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add additional whipped topping as desired and sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top for a decorative and flavorful finish.

Notes

This dessert is best served chilled and can be made up to 24 hours in advance.

For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.

Store leftover Pumpkin Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can add chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for added crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake, assembling

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of recipe)
Calories: 280

Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g

Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: pumpkin lush, pumpkin dessert, no bake pumpkin cheesecake, fall desserts, layered pumpkin dessert