Dessert

Pumpkin Lush Dessert: A Creamy, Layered Fall Treat Recipe

ByAndria Russo December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

This Pumpkin Lush is a deliciously layered no-bake dessert that combines creamy cheesecake, spiced pumpkin, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you want a sweet treat with seasonal flair.

The image shows a square, layered dessert bar on a white plate with a silver fork beside it. The dessert has three distinct layers: a crumbly, light brown base, a thick, smooth, orange middle layer, and a fluffy white top layer. On top of the white layer is a crunchy, golden-brown crumb topping. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred background that includes a white plate with a stack of similar dessert bars, a glass filled with orange liquid, and some round cookies nearby. A woman's hand is holding the fork, cutting into the dessert bar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 tbsp granulated sugar
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
16 oz whipped topping, thawed
3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding
12 oz can evaporated milk
15 oz can pure pumpkin
1 ½ tsp pumpkin spice
¼ cup pecans, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of whipped topping and mix on medium speed until fully incorporated. Spread this cheesecake mixture over the crust and refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the instant vanilla pudding mix with evaporated milk until thickened. Stir in the pumpkin and pumpkin spice until combined, then fold in ½ cup of whipped topping gently. Spread this pumpkin layer over the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Top the pumpkin layer with the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free ones.
Use a store-bought graham cracker crust if you’re short on time, just ensure it fits a 9×13 inch dish.
Toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor before adding to the topping.

Storage

Store leftover Pumpkin Lush covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften a bit over time, but the flavors remain delicious. For best texture, serve chilled and consume within this timeframe.

How to Serve

The image shows a square layered dessert on a white plate on a white marbled surface, with a woman's hand holding a spoonful of the dessert. The dessert has three layers: a crumbly golden brown base, a thick smooth orange middle layer, and a creamy white top layer. The top is sprinkled with golden brown crumbles, some of which are spread around the plate. In the background, there is a white plate with a stacked dessert and some scattered light brown cookies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the Pumpkin Lush up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

Yes, a store-bought crust works well and saves time. Just be sure to use one sized for a 9×13 inch dish to hold all the layers properly.

Andria Russo