Dessert

Pumpkin Lush: A Layered No-Bake Pumpkin Dessert Recipe

ByElla Hart November 30, 2025November 30, 2025

Introduction

This Pumpkin Lush is a delicious no-bake dessert that combines creamy layers with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you want a simple yet impressive treat.

A square dessert bar on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath. The dessert has three visible layers: a light brown crumbly base, a thick orange pumpkin filling layer in the middle, and a thick fluffy white whipped topping on top. The top is covered with a golden-brown crumbly streusel layer. A fork with a wooden handle rests beside the dessert with a small bite taken out of the corner. In the background, there is a glass of orange drink and some beige cookies, slightly out of focus. 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 together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on high speed until smooth and well combined. Add 1 ½ cups of the whipped topping and beat on medium speed until blended. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the instant vanilla pudding mix with the evaporated milk until thickened. Stir in the pumpkin and pumpkin spice until fully combined. Gently fold in ½ cup of the whipped topping.
Step 4: Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer in the baking dish.
Step 5: Top the pumpkin layer with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
Step 6: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Tips & Variations

Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.
For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling on top.
If you prefer a firmer crust, bake the graham cracker mixture at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before adding the cheesecake layer.

Storage

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften slightly over time, but the dessert will remain flavorful. For best results, serve chilled and enjoy within the storage period.

How to Serve

The image shows a square dessert with three clear layers on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light golden brown crumbly crust, followed by a thick middle layer of smooth, rich pumpkin orange filling. The top layer is a smooth white cream, covered with a generous sprinkle of crumbly brown topping. A woman's hand holding a fork is about to take a bite, and some crumbs are scattered on the plate around the dessert. In the background, there is an out-of-focus jar and some 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! You can prepare the pumpkin lush up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

Yes, a store-bought crust works perfectly if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s the larger 9×13-inch size to fit all the delicious layers.

Ella Hart