When you want a pumpkin dessert that’s quick, creamy, and always a hit at gatherings, this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe checks every box. No baking, no fuss—just layers of pumpkin-spiced goodness stacked in a dreamy chilled dessert. In this article, I’ll walk you through the full process, share my personal story with this fall favorite, give step-by-step instructions, flavor variations, and answer your top pumpkin dessert questions.
If you’re short on time but still want something impressive for Thanksgiving, a family potluck, or a cozy fall night in, you’re going to love this easy pumpkin dessert that’s rich, flavorful, and made to serve a crowd.
Let’s begin with the story behind the dish.
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Why This No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe Always Wins
Back when I was growing up, every October meant one thing—Mom’s creamy pumpkin lush dessert. It was her signature fall treat. No baking. Just layers of creamy filling, pumpkin spice, and graham cracker crust chilled to perfection. That dessert didn’t last more than a few hours on the table.
As I started making my own meals and hosting friends, I brought this pumpkin delight recipe with me. Over the years, I’ve updated the flavors to fit today’s preferences: a hint more spice, a smoother texture, and that classic no-bake ease that lets you prep and chill while you handle everything else.
For busy women—especially over 40—this is a dessert that works with your schedule. You can make it ahead, keep it in the fridge, and pull it out when guests arrive. It’s one of those no-bake pumpkin desserts that tastes like you worked harder than you did.
What Makes This Layered Pumpkin Lush Stand Out
There’s something magical about a chilled, creamy, layered pumpkin lush in the middle of fall. The way the sweet graham cracker base supports a rich cream cheese filling. Then comes the pumpkin pudding layer, spiced with just the right amount of cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped off with fluffy whipped topping—it’s smooth, cool, and every bite melts in your mouth.
You can dress it up too. Add crushed pecans, a caramel drizzle, or even mini gingersnaps on top. I’ve tried them all. And every time, this easy pumpkin dessert disappears faster than I can plate it.
Looking for other crowd-pleasing fall no-bake ideas? You might also love these adorable No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups that are perfect for portioned desserts.
Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a crisp Sunday afternoon, this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe brings warmth and joy to every table—and it’s ready in under 30 minutes of prep.
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No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, chilled fall dessert with layers of spiced pumpkin, sweet cream cheese, and a cinnamon graham cracker crust. Quick, no-bake, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups crushed cinnamon graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, divided
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 15 oz can pumpkin puree
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Press into a 9×9 pan to form the crust.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this cream cheese layer over the crust.
- In another bowl, beat pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, pudding mix, and pumpkin pie spice until creamy.
- Spread pumpkin layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with crushed graham crackers or toppings of your choice.
Notes
- Swap vanilla pudding with butterscotch for a richer flavor.
- Try gingersnaps or crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for the crust.
- Add caramel drizzle or toasted pecans on top for extra crunch.
- For mini versions, layer ingredients in dessert cups or jars.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 209
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
Gathering Your Ingredients for No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe
If you’ve ever made a no-bake dessert before, you know how forgiving it can be. That’s the beauty of this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe—you don’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment. Just a few pantry staples and a mixing bowl.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy pumpkin dessert:
- 1½ cups crushed cinnamon graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, divided
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
- 1 (5.1-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
These ingredients create three creamy, decadent layers plus a spiced graham cracker crust. No baking needed, and each component comes together in just minutes.
Ingredient Swaps for Personalizing Your Pumpkin Delight Recipe
You don’t have to stick with the exact ingredients. One reason this pumpkin delight recipe is a fall favorite is how flexible it is. Try one of these smart swaps to match your taste or dietary needs:
| Ingredient | Swap Option |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon graham crackers | Gingersnaps or crushed Oreos |
| Vanilla pudding mix | Butterscotch pudding |
| Whipped topping | Coconut whipped cream or homemade whipped cream |
| Evaporated milk | Half-and-half or non-dairy milk |
Step-by-Step: How to Make No Bake Pumpkin Lush
Follow these easy steps for a perfect pumpkin lush dessert every time:
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine crushed cinnamon graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until you get a wet sand texture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. Use a flat-bottom glass or spoon to press evenly. Place in fridge to set while you prep the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer
In a clean mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the whipped topping until light and fluffy. Spread this layer gently over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Pudding Layer
Using an electric mixer, beat together evaporated milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla pudding mix, and pumpkin pie spice. The mixture will thicken as you mix. Once creamy and smooth, spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Top It Off
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer. Use a spatula to make soft peaks or swirls—it adds a nice finishing touch.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and flavors to blend. It’s worth the wait!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle extra crushed graham crackers on top. You can also add cinnamon, pecans, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flair.
This dessert is especially great alongside other fun fall recipes like these festive Chocolate Covered Strawberry Turkeys for your holiday spread.
How to Store and Serve No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe
Storage Tips for Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best things about this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe is that you can prepare it ahead of time without any stress. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it the ideal make-ahead dessert for busy holidays, fall potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Just cover your 9×9 pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. For longer storage, wrap the pan in two layers (plastic + foil) and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Before serving, let it thaw in the fridge for 4–6 hours. The texture stays soft and creamy without getting soggy.
Serving Ideas for Fall Gatherings
This dessert isn’t just convenient—it’s gorgeous on the table. Once set, it cuts beautifully into neat squares that show off its layered pumpkin lush goodness. Serve it cold on dessert plates with a fork, or dress it up with toppings like:
- Whipped cream swirls
- Crushed pecans
- Pumpkin pie spice dusting
- Drizzle of maple syrup or caramel
Want to complete your fall dessert table? Pair it with seasonal treats like Apple Cider Blondies or buttery Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars for a balanced mix of sweet and tart.
Tips for Slicing and Presentation
To get those bakery-style clean slices, make sure your dessert has chilled for at least 4 hours. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wipe clean between each cut. A pie server helps you lift the slices without smudging the layers.
Use a square white dessert plate to make those pumpkin layers pop!
Creative Variations of Pumpkin Lush Dessert
Oreo Crust or Gingersnap Crust
While cinnamon graham crackers are the classic choice, the crust is a great place to personalize your pumpkin lush dessert. Try:
- Crushed Oreos for a chocolate-pumpkin twist
- Gingersnap cookies for a spicier, holiday-style base
- Vanilla wafers for a mild, buttery bite
Just keep the ratio the same: 1½ cups crushed cookies to 6 tablespoons melted butter.
Butterscotch and Pecan Versions
Add some southern charm to your pumpkin delight recipe with a rich butterscotch or nutty flavor.
- Swap the vanilla pudding for butterscotch pudding mix
- Add 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans on top
- Drizzle salted caramel over the whipped topping just before serving
This makes it perfect for a Thanksgiving dessert that feels like pecan pie and pumpkin pie in one dish.
Mini Pumpkin Lush Cups for Parties
Want individual servings? Layer all ingredients into mini dessert cups or mason jars. This version is great for Halloween parties, classroom treats, or dessert tables with lots of guests. No cutting required!
You can even prep these the night before and store in the fridge, lids and all.
Low-Sugar Options for Lightened Flavor
To cut down on sugar while keeping flavor:
- Use light whipped topping
- Choose sugar-free pudding mix
- Swap the crust for unsweetened almond flour + cinnamon
It’s a gentle makeover for anyone watching their sugar intake without sacrificing the comfort of this no-bake pumpkin dessert.
Why No Bake Pumpkin Lush Dessert Is a Fall Favorite
A No-Bake Dessert That Brings Fall Comfort Instantly
When the leaves start changing and cozy sweaters come out, it’s time to bring comforting, crowd-pleasing flavors to the table. That’s where this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe shines. It’s creamy, cool, spiced just right, and requires zero oven time—exactly what you want when you’re balancing holiday prep with real life.
This dessert is ideal for:
- Thanksgiving gatherings
- Fall potlucks
- Weekend dinners
- Prep-ahead sweet treats
Unlike heavy pies or complicated pastries, this easy pumpkin dessert delivers all the flavor in a chilled, mousse-like texture that even non-pumpkin fans love.
Hosting this season? Add this to your dessert buffet alongside Pear Gingerbread Dessert Cups or the festive Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl for a table full of fall favorites.
Answering the Most Common Pumpkin Dessert Questions
Let’s dig into the most-asked questions from Google—answered clearly and naturally based on your audience and keyword strategy.
What is a popular dessert made from pumpkins?
Besides classic pumpkin pie, one of the most-loved fall treats is this pumpkin lush dessert. It’s light, creamy, layered, and doesn’t require baking. That alone makes it a seasonal staple at parties and potlucks.
What to make with pumpkin easily?
This No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe is one of the easiest pumpkin recipes you’ll find. It’s just a few pantry ingredients layered together—no oven, no stress. You can also try pumpkin protein balls, no-bake truffles, or pumpkin cheesecake cups for more simple treats.
How do you make a 2 ingredient pumpkin cake mix?
If you’re short on time, mix 1 box of spice cake mix with 1 can of pumpkin puree—bake at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes. It’s not as creamy as a lush, but it’s fluffy and fast.
How to use up a can of pumpkin?
Aside from this pumpkin delight recipe, you can use leftover canned pumpkin in oatmeal, smoothies, pancakes, or savory dishes like soups. Even a few spoonfuls can add richness and fiber to your meals.
What is the most popular dessert ever?
Globally, chocolate cake and ice cream often take the crown, but when it comes to fall desserts in the U.S., pumpkin-based recipes rank high—especially no-bake options like this one. Their comfort and ease keep them on top.
Is canned pumpkin as healthy as fresh?
Yes! Canned pumpkin is packed with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. As long as it’s 100% pure pumpkin, it’s just as nutritious as fresh, and perfect for easy recipes like this no-bake pumpkin dessert.
Conclusion: Make This No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe Your Fall Go-To
The beauty of this No Bake Pumpkin Lush Recipe lies in its simplicity, flexibility, and cozy fall flavors. It’s quick enough for weeknights and stunning enough for holidays. Whether you’re making it for a potluck, Thanksgiving, or a quiet weekend treat, this layered pumpkin lush brings the warmth of autumn straight to your table.
With customizable layers, make-ahead storage, and easy slicing, it’s no wonder this dessert is becoming more popular than pumpkin pie. Now that you’ve got the full recipe, try it once—and it’ll become your new fall tradition.