Dreamy Fall Pumpkin Lush Recipe: A Cozy Autumn Treat

Whipping up a delectable pumpkin lush dessert always brings warmth to chilly autumn evenings.

Sweet layers of creamy goodness melt together in perfect harmony.

Comfort comes from each spoonful that promises rich, indulgent flavors.

Crumbly graham cracker bases create a delightful foundation for silky smooth textures.

Clouds of whipped cream dance atop a spiced pumpkin filling that whispers of cozy memories.

Seasonal ingredients transform this simple treat into something magical.

Dive in and let the deliciousness begin!

How to Assemble Pumpkin Lush

Step 1: Create Crumbly Crust Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until they resemble wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating an even, compact layer that will serve as the foundation for your delectable dessert.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Cheese Layer

In a separate mixing bowl, blend powdered sugar and cream cheese until the mixture becomes silky smooth and free of lumps. Gently spread this luscious cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 3: Prepare Pumpkin Spice Pudding

• Milk
• Pumpkin puree
• Pumpkin pie spice

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a uniform, velvety mixture with no dry patches or clumps.

Step 4: Layer Pumpkin Goodness

Carefully pour the pumpkin pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, creating a beautiful and even distribution across the entire dessert surface.

Step 5: Top With Fluffy Clouds

Spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the pumpkin layer, creating a light and airy final touch to your dessert.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing all layers to set and flavors to meld together perfectly. This waiting period will enhance the texture and taste of your pumpkin lush.

Pro Tips for Pumpkin Lush

• Crush graham crackers finely for a perfect, even crust that holds together beautifully.
• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to create a smooth, lump-free layer that spreads easily.
• Use fresh pumpkin pie spice to enhance the rich, warm flavors of the dessert.
• Chill the dessert overnight for deeper flavor melding and firmer texture that cuts cleanly.
• Opt for full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to maintain the dessert's creamy, indulgent consistency.

Delicious Variations of Pumpkin Lush

• Spiced Pecan Crunch: Replace graham cracker crust with crushed pecans and add cinnamon for extra warmth and nutty texture.
• Maple Caramel Dream: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce between layers and sprinkle with maple-coated nuts for rich, indulgent flavor.
• No-Bake Chocolate Pumpkin: Swap cream cheese layer with chocolate ganache and add dark chocolate shavings on top for decadent contrast.
• Vegan Autumn Bliss: Use coconut cream, dairy-free cream cheese, and almond milk to create a plant-based version with same creamy consistency.

Suggested Pairings for Pumpkin Lush

• Pair Spiced Bourbon Cocktail: Craft a warm, autumnal bourbon drink with cinnamon and nutmeg that complements the pumpkin dessert's rich, creamy flavors.
• Serve Caramel Macchiato: Brew a smooth espresso-based coffee with caramel drizzle that echoes the dessert's sweet, layered profile and enhances its warmth.
• Match Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop premium vanilla bean ice cream alongside the pumpkin lush to create a cool, velvety contrast with its creamy texture.
• Recommend Spiced Chai Latte: Prepare a fragrant chai tea with subtle spices that mirror the pumpkin pie spice in the dessert, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

Best Ways to Keep Pumpkin Lush Fresh and Flavorful

• Seal the Pumpkin Lush in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep chilled for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
• Wrap the dessert securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its original consistency.
• Cut individual servings and store them in separate sealed containers to prevent moisture loss and maintain freshness. This approach helps preserve the layered structure and prevents potential freezer burn.
• Best enjoyed cold directly from the refrigerator. If slightly frozen, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften.

Answers to Common Questions About Pumpkin Lush

• What ingredients do I need for the pumpkin lush?

You’ll need graham cracker crumbs, butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla pudding mix, milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and whipped topping.

• Is pumpkin pie spice necessary for this recipe?

Yes, it adds essential warm, seasonal flavor to the dessert. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.

• Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes better when prepared in advance. You can make it 1-2 days before serving, which allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

What Makes Pumpkin Lush a Festive Favorite

• Craft Delectable Layers: Build a stunning dessert with multiple smooth, creamy layers that create a delightful taste experience in every single bite.
• Minimal Preparation Skills: Requires basic mixing and spreading techniques, making it perfect for beginner bakers who want to impress family and friends without advanced culinary training.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combines beloved fall flavors like pumpkin and warm spices with classic creamy textures, ensuring this treat will be a hit at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert in advance and store in the refrigerator, which means less stress when planning meals for special occasions or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients Needed for Pumpkin Lush

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a crunchy and sweet foundation for the dessert.
• Butter: Helps bind the crumbs and creates a rich, golden base for the dessert.

• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Cream Cheese: Provides a tangy, rich base that complements the pumpkin flavor.

• Pudding Mix: Helps thicken and stabilize the pumpkin layer with a smooth consistency.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the pudding mix.
• Pumpkin Puree: Brings the signature autumn flavor and creates a vibrant orange color.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Delivers warm, classic fall spices that enhance the pumpkin taste.

• Whipped Topping: Adds a light, creamy finish to the dessert and provides a smooth, airy texture.

Pumpkin Lush Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent layers of pumpkin lush dessert weave creamy autumn magic between graham cracker crust and silky cream cheese filling. Seasonal spices dance through each cool, dreamy bite, inviting you to savor fall’s most irresistible sweet creation.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 15 ounces (425 grams) pumpkin puree
• 2 packages (3.4 ounces/96 grams each) instant vanilla pudding
• 2 3/4 cups (660 milliliters) milk
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces (226 grams) whipped topping, thawed

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) melted butter

Flavor and Sweetening Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

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Instructions

1. Crush graham crackers and blend with melted butter, then firmly pack the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating an even, compact base.
2. Whip cream cheese with powdered sugar until silky and uniformly smooth, then carefully spread this layer over the graham cracker foundation.
3. Create the pumpkin layer by thoroughly mixing pudding mix, milk, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice until the consistency is completely uniform and free of lumps.
4. Gently pour the spiced pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution across the surface.
5. Cover the pumpkin layer with a generous, smooth coating of whipped topping, spreading it carefully to the edges of the pan.
6. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld together before serving.

Notes

• Customize the crust by using alternative cookie crumbs like gingersnaps or gluten-free graham crackers for dietary restrictions.
• Enhance the cream cheese layer’s flavor by adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Whip the cream cheese mixture longer for a lighter, fluffier texture that complements the dense pumpkin layer.
• Garnish with toasted pecans or a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice before serving to elevate the dessert’s visual appeal and add a crunchy texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Refrigerating
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 21 g
• Sodium: 170 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 35 mg