Pumpkin Lush Recipe

The Creamiest Pumpkin Lush Recipe for Fall Sweet Cravings

Crafting a delectable pumpkin lush dessert brings pure autumn magic right to your plate.

Memories of cozy sweaters and falling leaves dance through this creamy creation.

Layers of silky smooth textures promise a delightful experience for anyone seeking comfort in a single bite.

Seasonal spices weave their warmth throughout each decadent spoonful.

Soft graham cracker crust provides a perfect foundation for the dreamy pumpkin filling.

Cream cheese and whipped topping create an irresistible blend of richness that melts in your mouth.

Indulge in this simple yet spectacular dessert that captures the essence of fall’s most beloved flavors.

Pumpkin Lush Highlights And Ingredients

  • Savor Hearty Comfort: This one-pan wonder combines tender pork chops with creamy scalloped potatoes for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.
  • Create a Complete Meal: The recipe brilliantly integrates protein and side dish into a single baking dish, reducing cleanup and maximizing flavor with minimal effort.
  • Master Layered Flavors: Seasoned pork chops and rich, herb-infused potato layers deliver a complex taste profile that elevates this classic comfort food from ordinary to extraordinary.
  • Adaptable Kitchen Magic: Perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe works equally well for weeknight dinners or special weekend gatherings with its foolproof cooking technique.

Ingredients To Make Pumpkin Lush Dessert

For the Crust:
  • Pecans: Provide a rich, nutty base for the dessert.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds richness.
  • Flour: Assists in creating a stable and crisp crust foundation.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy layer with tangy flavor.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps stabilize the cream cheese mixture.
  • Whipped Topping: Provides lightness and extra creaminess to the layer.
For the Pumpkin Layer:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Offers authentic pumpkin flavor and seasonal warmth.
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: Helps thicken and add sweetness to the pumpkin layer.
  • Cold Milk: Helps activate the pudding mix and create a smooth consistency.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Enhances the pumpkin flavor with warm, aromatic spices.
For the Topping and Garnish:
  • Whipped Topping: Adds a light and creamy finish to the dessert.
  • Pecan Halves: Provides a decorative and crunchy garnish (optional).

How To Prepare Pumpkin Lush Dessert

Step 1: Build Nutty Crust

Warm your oven to 350F. Blend finely chopped pecans, melted butter, and flour in a mixing bowl until they become a cohesive mixture.

Press this delightful combination firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slide the dish into the oven and bake until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown, which takes about 15-20 minutes.

After baking, let the crust cool completely to room temperature.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Cheese Layer

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar.

Beat them together until the mixture becomes silky smooth. Gently fold in a generous portion of whipped topping.

Carefully spread this luxurious layer over the completely cooled crust, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Craft Pumpkin Filling

Grab another bowl and whisk together:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Instant vanilla pudding mix
  • Cold milk
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Continue whisking until the mixture transforms into a thick, smooth consistency.

Spread this vibrant pumpkin layer over the cream cheese layer with precision.

Step 4: Crown with Fluffy Topping

Distribute the remaining whipped topping evenly across the pumpkin layer.

For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle pecan halves on top if you desire.

Step 5: Chill and Enjoy

Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 2 hours.

This resting period allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice, serve, and savor the incredible layers of this magnificent dessert.

Tips For Perfect Pumpkin Lush Every Time

  • Toast pecans before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch in the crust.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, lump-free mixing and easier spreading.
  • Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding cream cheese layer to prevent melting and maintain layer integrity.
  • Substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher, less processed taste.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend in the crust.

Flavor Twists For Pumpkin Lush

  • Spiced Maple Pecan Pumpkin Lush: Replace powdered sugar with maple syrup in cream cheese layer. Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Chocolate Pumpkin Dream: Add cocoa powder to pumpkin layer. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over whipped topping for rich chocolate undertones.
  • Caramel Pumpkin Crunch: Drizzle salted caramel sauce between layers. Top with crushed graham crackers for additional texture and sweet-salty profile.
  • No-Bake Autumn Edition: Skip baking crust by using crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter. Chill entire dessert without using oven for easier preparation.

Perfect Pairings With Pumpkin Lush Dessert

  • Cozy Thanksgiving Dessert Centerpiece: Sprinkle toasted pecan halves and a light dusting of cinnamon over the top to create a stunning presentation that screams autumn comfort. Guests will adore the beautiful layered look and rich seasonal flavors.
  • Friendsgiving Potluck Star: Cut into neat squares and arrange on a rustic wooden platter with small decorative forks. This dessert travels beautifully and impresses everyone at the gathering with its elegant, make-ahead simplicity.
  • Individual Dessert Cups: Layer the recipe in clear glass mason jars for a charming personal-sized treat. Top each jar with a sprinkle of crushed pecans and a tiny cinnamon stick for a gourmet touch that's perfect for dinner parties or holiday gifting.

Storing Pumpkin Lush For Best Results

  • Seal the pumpkin lush in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors. Keep in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • Wrap the dessert tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Store frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the delicate layer textures.
  • Cut the dessert into squares and separate each piece with parchment paper inside a sealed container. This prevents sticking and makes grabbing a quick slice super easy.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in Pumpkin Lush?

The key ingredients are pecans, butter, flour, cream cheese, powdered sugar, whipped topping, pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and pumpkin pie spice.

  • Is this dessert easy to make?

Yes, it’s very simple. You just need to prepare four layers by mixing and spreading ingredients, then chill the dessert before serving.

  • Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works perfectly and can add a fresher taste to the dessert.

  • How long will Pumpkin Lush stay fresh?

When stored in the refrigerator, it will remain fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

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Pumpkin Lush Recipe

Pumpkin Lush Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy pumpkin lush dessert combines layers of velvety goodness in a delightful autumn treat. Rich graham cracker crust and spiced pumpkin filling create a memorable sweet experience you’ll savor until the last delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 ½ cups cold milk
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 ½ cups whipped topping
  • Pecan halves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Craft a golden-hued pecan crust by combining finely chopped pecans with melted butter and flour. Press the mixture firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish, then bake at 350F for 15-20 minutes until edges turn crisp and light brown. Allow the crust to cool completely.
  2. Whip softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until silky and uniform. Gently incorporate whipped topping, creating a luxurious, airy layer. Carefully spread this creamy mixture across the cooled crust.
  3. Create a spiced pumpkin layer by whisking pumpkin puree with instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and pumpkin pie spice. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth, thick consistency. Evenly distribute this vibrant orange layer over the cream cheese base.
  4. Crown the dessert with a billowy layer of remaining whipped topping, ensuring complete coverage. For an elegant touch, arrange pecan halves decoratively across the surface.
  5. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and layers to solidify. This chilling period ensures a perfectly set, decadent pumpkin lush ready to delight.

Notes

  • Opt for fresh, high-quality pecans to enhance the crust’s nutty flavor and crisp texture.
  • Toast pecans lightly before chopping to release deeper, more complex nutty notes and boost overall taste.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose blend in the crust.
  • Reduce sugar content by using sugar-free pudding mix and low-fat cream cheese for a lighter dessert option.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 335
  • Sugar: 19.2 g
  • Sodium: 153 mg
  • Fat: 22.4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9.6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31.8 g
  • Fiber: 1.7 g
  • Protein: 4.0 g
  • Cholesterol: 43 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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