Description
Pumpkin Lush is a quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy pumpkin spice layer and a luscious whipped topping. Perfect for midweek comfort, this layered treat combines seasonal spices with smooth pumpkin and cream cheese for a decadent, yet simple dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 12 oz graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Filling
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Garnish (optional)
- Additional whipped topping
- Ground cinnamon
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.
- Make cream cheese base: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add pumpkin and spices: Add pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Layer pumpkin mixture: Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the remaining pumpkin mixture until well incorporated and fluffy. This lighter layer is then spread evenly over the pumpkin layer in the dish.
- Chill the dessert: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top with additional whipped topping and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired, adding a decorative and flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Be gentle when folding in the whipped topping to retain its light and fluffy texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor development.
- This dessert is best served chilled and should be kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin dessert, pumpkin lush, no-bake dessert, pumpkin recipe, easy pumpkin dessert, fall dessert, creamy pumpkin dessert
