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.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 12 oz graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Pumpkin Layer
- 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
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Additional whipped topping (for garnish, optional)
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)
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
