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Pumpkin Lush Dessert Recipe: Easy Fluffy Layers for Festive Gatherings

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This Pumpkin Lush Dessert features creamy layers of spiced pumpkin, fluffy whipped topping, and a crunchy pecan crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make treat perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts; omit for nut-free)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup cold milk (whole or 2%; or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 1 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg + 1/2 tsp ginger)
  • 1/2 cup whipped topping
  • 2 cups whipped topping (for topping)
  • Extra chopped pecans, for garnish (optional)
  • Pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
  • Optional: caramel drizzle, chocolate shavings, or colored sprinkles for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, chopped pecans, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly and well combined.
  4. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until golden and fragrant. Let cool completely (about 20 minutes).
  6. In a clean bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
  7. Add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  8. Fold in whipped topping and vanilla extract until just combined.
  9. Spread cream cheese layer evenly over cooled crust.
  10. In a third bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and pumpkin pie spice until thick and creamy (about 2 minutes).
  11. Fold in whipped topping until mixture is fluffy and pale orange.
  12. Spread pumpkin layer gently over cream cheese layer.
  13. Spread remaining whipped topping evenly over pumpkin layer. Swirl with a spatula for a pretty finish.
  14. Sprinkle with extra chopped pecans and a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. Add caramel drizzle or sprinkles if desired.
  15. Cover with plastic wrap or airtight lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
  16. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight for defined layers. Use full-fat cream cheese and real pumpkin puree for optimal texture. Substitute gluten-free flour or graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free adaptation. Coconut whipped topping and vegan cream cheese work for dairy-free. If crust crumbles, simply scoop with a spatula. Clean knife between cuts for neat slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin lush, layered dessert, autumn dessert, Thanksgiving, potluck, pumpkin recipe, easy dessert, pecan crust, creamy pumpkin, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/pumpkin-lush-dessert-recipe-easy-fluffy-layers-for-festive-gatherings/