No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe

The Perfect No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe for Autumn Bliss

Creamy layers of autumn-inspired pumpkin lush promise a delightful dessert without turning on the oven.

Chilled treats always spark excitement in my kitchen.

Smooth, velvety textures blend seamlessly with graham cracker crusts for a perfect no-fuss sweet.

Seasonal spices dance through each decadent bite, creating a memorable experience.

Minimal effort yields maximum flavor in this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Whipping up this simple yet impressive recipe will make you the star of any gathering.

Why No Bake Pumpkin Lush Is a Perfect Anytime Dessert

  • Crafting Crowd-Pleaser: A dessert that brings smiles to everyone's faces with its irresistible layers and creamy texture.
  • Zero Oven Action Needed: Skip the baking hassle and create a delightful treat using simple mixing and layering techniques.
  • Seasonal Sensation: Perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, and pumpkin spice lovers who crave a cool and creamy dessert.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert in advance, giving you more time to enjoy with friends and family while impressing them with your culinary skills.

Ingredients for No Bake Pumpkin Lush

Crust Base:
  • Graham Crackers: A classic cookie that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the dessert.
  • Butter: Creates a rich and binding element that helps the crust hold together.
Cream Cheese Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Offers a tangy and smooth base that adds creamy texture to the dessert.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a silky consistency in the cream cheese mixture.
  • Whipped Topping: Adds lightness and volume to the cream cheese layer.
Pumpkin Layer:
  • Evaporated Milk: Provides a rich and creamy base for the pumpkin mixture.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Delivers authentic pumpkin flavor and seasonal warmth to the dessert.
  • Instant Vanilla Pudding: Helps thicken the pumpkin layer and adds subtle vanilla sweetness.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Brings classic autumn spices that enhance the pumpkin flavor.
Garnish:
  • Graham Crackers, Cinnamon: Adds texture and extra warmth to the final presentation of the dessert.

Simple Preparation for No Bake Pumpkin Lush

Step 1: Create Crumbly Crust Foundation

Grab a mixing bowl and crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Drizzle melted butter over the crumbs and mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, creating an even layer that will serve as the delicious base of your dessert.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Cheese Layer

Using an electric mixer, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture becomes silky smooth. Gently fold in a container of whipped topping, creating a light and fluffy cream cheese mixture. Carefully spread this layer over the graham cracker crust, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 3: Craft Spiced Pumpkin Filling

In a separate mixing bowl, combine:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Evaporated milk
  • Instant vanilla pudding mix
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Blend these ingredients with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes perfectly smooth and well-incorporated. The result should be a rich, velvety pumpkin layer with warm autumn spices.

Step 4: Layer and Chill Dessert

Gently spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer. Top the entire dessert with the remaining whipped topping, creating a cloud-like final layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set completely.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, sprinkle crushed graham crackers and a light dusting of cinnamon over the top. Slice into squares and serve chilled. This dessert can also be frozen for a refreshing treat, just remember to thaw for 30 minutes before enjoying.

Pro Tips to Nail No Bake Pumpkin Lush Every Time

  • Crush graham crackers finely for a smoother, more even crust that holds together perfectly.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a silky, lump-free layer that spreads effortlessly.
  • Chill the dessert overnight for deeper flavor melding and firmer texture that cuts cleanly.
  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives for a celiac-friendly version without compromising taste.
  • Experiment with seasonal spices like nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the pumpkin's warm, cozy profile.

Creative Twists for No Bake Pumpkin Lush

  • Autumn Spice Crunch: Replace graham crackers with gingersnap cookies for a spicier base and sprinkle toasted pecans on top for extra texture.
  • Maple Pumpkin Dream: Swap powdered sugar with maple syrup in the cream cheese layer and add a drizzle of warm maple syrup before serving.
  • Chocolate Pumpkin Fusion: Mix cocoa powder into the pumpkin layer and add chocolate chips between layers for a rich, decadent version.
  • Nutty Pumpkin Bliss: Incorporate almond extract into the cream cheese layer and top with sliced almonds for a nutty complexity.

Ideal Pairings for No Bake Pumpkin Lush

  • Brew Warm Spice Tea: Complement the dessert's rich pumpkin flavor with a chai or cinnamon-infused black tea, enhancing the warm autumnal notes and providing a cozy drinking experience.
  • Serve Creamy Coffee Companion: Pair with a smooth caramel latte or pumpkin spice cappuccino, whose robust coffee undertones beautifully balance the dessert's sweet, creamy texture.
  • Match Nutty Beverage Contrast: Enjoy alongside an almond milk or hazelnut-flavored drink, creating a delightful nutty counterpoint that elevates the pumpkin's earthy sweetness.

Storage Tips for No Bake Pumpkin Lush

  • Store the No Bake Pumpkin Lush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Wrap the dessert securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut the dessert into squares and separate layers with parchment paper when storing in the freezer. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to grab a single serving.
  • This dessert is best served chilled. If slightly frozen, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften before enjoying. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture soggy.

FAQs About No Bake Pumpkin Lush

  • Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Yes, this no-bake pumpkin lush is perfect for kids. It’s sweet, creamy, and doesn’t require any complicated cooking techniques. Children will love the layered texture and mild pumpkin flavor.

  • Do I need any special baking skills to make this dessert?

Not at all! This recipe is super easy and requires basic mixing skills. You just need to combine ingredients and layer them in a pan. Even beginner cooks can successfully make this dessert.

  • Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is great for preparing in advance. You can make it a day or two before serving, and it will actually taste better as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator.

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No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe

No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe


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4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy no bake pumpkin lush dessert brings autumn’s warmth to your table with layers of silky pumpkin pudding and graham cracker crust. Comfort meets indulgence in this easy, chilled treat you’ll crave all season long.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 1 (5.1 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Crust and Base:

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed cinnamon graham crackers
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Creamy Layer:

  • 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping

Instructions

  1. Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing graham crackers and blending with melted butter, then firmly compact the mixture into a 9×9-inch pan, creating a sturdy base for the dessert.
  2. Whip cream cheese and powdered sugar until velvety smooth, incorporating whipped topping gently to create a luxurious, airy cream cheese layer.
  3. Delicately spread the cream cheese mixture across the graham cracker foundation, ensuring an even, seamless coverage.
  4. Craft a vibrant pumpkin mixture by vigorously whisking evaporated milk, pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding, and pumpkin pie spice until the ingredients meld into a silky, spiced filling.
  5. Cascade the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer, then crown with remaining whipped topping for a decadent finish.
  6. Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly; alternatively, freeze and thaw for 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Elevate the presentation by sprinkling crushed graham crackers and a delicate dusting of cinnamon, then slice and savor the harmonious layers of this no-bake autumn delight.

Notes

  • Perfectly press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that won’t crumble when cutting.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smoother mixing and preventing lumpy texture in the layer.
  • Chill the dessert overnight for maximum flavor development and firmer consistency that slices cleanly.
  • Transform this recipe into a gluten-free version by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour base.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 239
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 152 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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