Dessert

Pumpkin Delight Recipe

ByMarina Montclair December 4, 2025December 4, 2025

Introduction

Pumpkin Delight is a creamy, layered dessert perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet treat with seasonal flavors. This easy-to-make no-bake dessert combines pumpkin spice, white chocolate pudding, and a buttery pecan crust for a rich and satisfying experience.

A square-shaped layered dessert sits on a white plate with a simple dotted edge design, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert features three layers: the bottom layer is a light beige crust with small nut pieces visible; the middle layer is thick, smooth, and orange-colored, resembling pumpkin or sweet potato filling; the top layer is a fluffy white cream topped with a generous amount of chopped nuts scattered unevenly, with a few nut pieces spilled around on the plate. The background shows a white baking dish filled with the same dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup butter, softened
¾ cup chopped pecans
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
3 cups whipped topping, divided
2½ cups milk
3 (3.4-ounce) packages white chocolate (or vanilla) instant pudding mix
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the flour, softened butter, and ½ cup chopped pecans until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Step 3: Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Note: For a thicker crust or if using a 9×13-inch pan, increase the flour by ½ cup, butter by ¼ cup, and pecans by ¼ cup.
Step 4: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping, then spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Step 5: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, instant pudding mix, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and 1 cup of whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
Step 6: Spread the pumpkin pudding layer over the cream cheese layer evenly.
Step 7: Top the pumpkin layer with the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping, spreading it gently to cover completely. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top for garnish.
Step 8: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours or until set. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese layer for extra warmth.
Replace pecans with walnuts or skip the nuts to suit your preference or allergies.
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for a lighter version.

Storage

Store Pumpkin Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.

How to Serve

A slice of dessert is shown on a white plate with a dotted rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three layers: the bottom layer is a light brown nutty crust with visible nut pieces, the middle layer is a smooth orange pumpkin-colored filling, and the top layer is a thick, white cream topped evenly with chopped nuts. Some chopped nuts are scattered on the plate around the dessert. In the background, a white dish with more of the dessert is slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Fresh pumpkin can be used if cooked and pureed properly, but canned pumpkin puree offers consistent moisture and flavor, making it the easiest choice for this recipe.

How long does the dessert need to chill before serving?

Chilling for at least 3 hours is recommended to allow the layers to set properly and for the flavors to meld. Overnight chilling works even better if you have the time.