Pumpkin Lush – Creamy, Dreamy Layers of Fall Flavor
If you’re looking for a no-fuss fall dessert that wows everyone at the table, this Pumpkin Lush is it. With its buttery cookie crust, creamy cheesecake layer, silky pumpkin pudding filling, and fluffy whipped topping, every bite tastes like autumn comfort in dessert form.
It’s cool, creamy, and irresistibly layered — making it perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings. Best of all, it’s simple to assemble, requires no complicated baking steps, and can be made ahead of time.
Whether you’re a pumpkin pie fan or just love creamy desserts with a little crunch, this Pumpkin Lush delivers all the fall flavors you crave in an easy, crowd-pleasing way.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Lush
1. No-bake layers
Only the crust gets lightly baked — the rest is creamy, cool, and assembled right in the pan.
2. Make-ahead friendly
Perfect for holidays or entertaining — it tastes even better the next day.
3. Creamy, dreamy texture
Each bite combines buttery crust, rich cream cheese, and spiced pumpkin layers.
4. Easy to customize
You can switch up the crust, add toppings, or make it gluten-free with simple swaps.
5. Feeds a crowd
This lush dessert makes enough for a full 9×13 pan — ideal for parties and gatherings.
6. Classic fall flavor
Pumpkin, cinnamon, and cream — all the best autumn notes in one chilled dessert.
What You’ll Need
This layered dessert comes together with just a few staple ingredients and a touch of pumpkin spice magic.
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or gingersnap cookies
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
For the Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pumpkin spice or butterscotch pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping (or more to cover generously)
- Crushed pecans, cinnamon dust, or cookie crumbs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers (or gingersnaps), melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, creating an even layer.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until lightly golden.
Let it cool completely before adding the next layers.
Tip: For a completely no-bake version, you can skip baking and simply chill the crust for 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping and gently mix until fully combined and fluffy.
Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
Pro Tip: Chill this layer for 15 minutes before adding the pumpkin layer — it helps create cleaner layers when slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer
In another large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, both pudding mixes, cold milk, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
Whisk for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Once it reaches a smooth, pudding-like consistency, spread it carefully over the cream cheese layer.
Smooth the top with a spatula so the pumpkin layer is even and reaches all corners.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer, covering the entire surface.
For a decorative touch, you can pipe the whipped topping in swirls or peaks — or simply smooth it flat for a clean, elegant look.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish with your choice of crushed pecans, gingersnap crumbs, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Slice into neat squares and serve chilled.
Each bite reveals creamy pumpkin pudding, tangy cheesecake filling, and buttery crust — pure autumn indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Lush
- Use cold milk for pudding.
Warm milk won’t set the instant pudding properly. - Chill between layers.
It keeps each layer defined and clean when sliced. - Make sure cream cheese is soft.
Cold cream cheese creates lumps — let it come to room temperature before mixing. - Don’t rush the chilling time.
The longer it sits, the better the texture and flavor. - Customize the crust.
Try Biscoff cookies for a spiced caramel flavor, or gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version. - Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Pumpkin pie filling already has sugar and spices — you want pure pumpkin for this recipe.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve nailed the classic version, try these fun and tasty twists:
1. Pumpkin Cheesecake Lush
Add a second layer of cream cheese filling on top of the pumpkin layer for extra richness.
2. Gingersnap Crust
Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a bolder, spicier base.
3. Caramel Pumpkin Lush
Drizzle caramel sauce between the pumpkin and whipped cream layers for a decadent touch.
4. Chocolate Pumpkin Lush
Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a surprising cocoa-pumpkin twist.
5. Pecan Pie Pumpkin Lush
Add a layer of chopped toasted pecans mixed with brown sugar over the crust before layering.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin Lush is the perfect make-ahead dessert for fall gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with warm drinks or other autumn dishes. Try serving it with:
- Hot apple cider or pumpkin spice lattes
- Cinnamon coffee or chai tea
- Thanksgiving turkey and sides
- Fresh fruit for a lighter finish
- A drizzle of salted caramel or chocolate sauce
It’s a stunning centerpiece dessert — creamy, vibrant, and full of fall flair.
How to Store and Make Ahead
Refrigerator:
Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. The crust stays firm, and the flavors intensify as it sits.
Freezer:
You can freeze Pumpkin Lush for up to 1 month.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Make-Ahead:
Prepare the crust and cream cheese layers a day early.
Add the pumpkin and whipped topping layers the next day for the freshest presentation.
Troubleshooting
Layers are blending together:
Chill each layer before adding the next to prevent mixing.
Pudding not setting:
Make sure to use instant pudding and cold milk. If still too soft, chill longer before assembling.
Crust crumbling too much:
Add a bit more butter to help it hold together, and press it firmly into the pan.
Too sweet:
Use less sugar in the crust or choose unsweetened whipped cream to balance flavors.
Texture too runny:
Chill longer or use less milk next time (start with 1¾ cups instead of 2).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, absolutely. Beat 2 cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust, and ensure your pudding mix is certified gluten-free.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
You can, but it will be sweeter and spicier. Reduce added spices if using pie filling.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy whipped topping, and almond or coconut milk (ensure your pudding mix sets with non-dairy milk).
Can I use one pudding flavor instead of two?
Yes — just use two boxes of the same pudding (vanilla, butterscotch, or pumpkin spice all work well).
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
(Nutrition values will vary slightly depending on crust and topping choices.)
Why This Recipe Works
This Pumpkin Lush takes the best flavors of pumpkin pie, cheesecake, and pudding dessert — and layers them into one show-stopping dish.
The buttery crust adds a crisp contrast to the smooth, creamy layers above, while the pumpkin pudding creates that nostalgic autumn flavor everyone loves.
Because the dessert is chilled instead of baked, it stays incredibly light and creamy. The layers hold their shape beautifully once set, and the overall texture is melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
Each layer complements the others — buttery, tangy, spiced, and sweet — creating a balanced dessert that’s rich but not heavy.
Tips for Customizing Your Pumpkin Lush Routine
- Turn it into mini desserts:
Layer the components into small jars or cups for individual servings — perfect for parties or portion control. - Dress it up for the holidays:
Top with sugared pecans, caramel drizzle, or cinnamon sticks for a festive touch. - Make it lighter:
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version. - Add crunch:
Sprinkle crushed cookies or toffee bits between layers for added texture. - Serve chilled but not frozen:
Let it rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Lush is everything a fall dessert should be — cool, creamy, spiced, and perfectly layered. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough for Thanksgiving dinner.
With its rich pumpkin flavor, light creamy layers, and buttery crust, it’s the ultimate make-ahead dessert that disappears fast at any gathering.
Simple to make, beautiful to serve, and absolutely irresistible — Pumpkin Lush is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen for years to come.
