If you are craving a dessert that captures the essence of fall with every bite, the Pumpkin Lush Recipe is exactly what you need. This vibrant layered treat brings together the spicy crunch of gingersnap cookies, a rich and creamy blend of pumpkin and spices, and fluffy whipped topping that melts in your mouth. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want to celebrate the cozy flavors of pumpkin. The Pumpkin Lush Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a luscious, unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Lush Recipe lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the crisp gingersnap cookie crust to the smooth pumpkin filling, creating a perfect harmony of textures and spices.

Gingersnap Cookie Crumbs: About 2 cups or roughly 40 cookies, these provide a spiced, crunchy base for the dessert.
Unsalted Butter: ½ cup melted butter binds the gingersnap crumbs together to form a solid crust.
Cream Cheese: 8 ounces softened, for a creamy, tangy layer that balances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup to sweeten the cream cheese layer smoothly.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon adds warm depth and enhances all the flavors.
Whipped Topping: 2 cups, or homemade whipped cream, divided between layers for airy texture and lightness.
Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup, the star ingredient providing that signature fall flavor and silky consistency.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: 1 package (3.4 ounces) to thicken and add a luscious mouthfeel to the pumpkin layer.
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for classic pumpkin spice warmth.
Ground Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon to bring out seasonal spice notes.
Ground Ginger: ¼ teaspoon adds a gentle zing, complementing the gingersnap crust.
Cold Milk: 1½ cups to activate the pudding and keep the filling light.
Chopped Pecans: ¼ cup for crunchy garnish that adds texture contrast.
Extra Gingersnap Cookie Crumbs: For finishing touches and added crunch on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Lush Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Gingersnap Crust

Start by combining the gingersnap cookie crumbs with the melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir well to coat the crumbs evenly with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create your flavorful base. Pop it into the fridge to chill while you prepare the next layers—this step ensures a crunchy and sturdy crust that underpins the whole dessert perfectly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and lump-free. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping to lighten the texture. Spread this creamy layer evenly over your chilled gingersnap crust, then return it to the fridge to firm up while you move on to the pumpkin filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cold milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. This luscious pumpkin blend, packed with warm spices, forms a cozy, flavorful layer. Spread it evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer to keep the dessert beautifully layered and balanced.

Step 4: Top the Dessert

Time for the crowning glory! Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the pumpkin layer for a light, fluffy finish. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and extra gingersnap cookie crumbs generously on top for a delightful crunch and added festive appeal. This final touch not only enhances texture but makes your Pumpkin Lush Recipe look as inviting as it tastes.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly, giving you those beautiful, distinct layers with every slice. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve your Pumpkin Lush Recipe cold for the best experience.

How to Serve Pumpkin Lush Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, consider a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top as an aromatic garnish. You can also add a few whole gingersnap cookies or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch. These small details make your dessert even more irresistible and inviting.

Side Dishes

While Pumpkin Lush Recipe stands strong on its own, pairing it with a simple cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea makes it a cozy and complete fall treat. For holiday meals, serve it alongside spiced nuts or fresh fruit to balance the richness and add some freshness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve the dessert in individual clear glasses or trifle bowls to showcase the beautiful layers. You could also use mini mason jars for a charming rustic presentation. Adding a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick on the side can bring an elegant, festive feel to your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your leftover Pumpkin Lush tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it convenient to enjoy later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions by wrapping them well and placing in a freezer-safe container. To avoid sogginess, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind that the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly after freezing.

Reheating

Since Pumpkin Lush Recipe is a cold dessert, reheating is generally not recommended. It’s best served chilled to maintain the contrast between the creamy layers and crunchy crust. Simply allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes if it feels too cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gingersnap cookies instead of store-bought crumbs?

Absolutely! Crushing homemade gingersnap cookies adds a fresh, personalized touch. Just be sure to crush them evenly so your crust holds together nicely.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, and non-dairy milk to enjoy a similar taste and texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. Pumpkin Lush Recipe actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead, allowing the layers to meld. Just be sure to store it properly chilled until serving.

What can I use instead of the instant vanilla pudding mix?

If you prefer not to use pudding mix, you can try making a homemade custard or thickened cream mixture to hold the pumpkin layer together, though pudding mix is the easiest option for the perfect texture.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Press the gingersnap crust firmly into the pan and chill it well before adding the cream cheese and pumpkin layers. This helps the crust stay crisp and hold its structure beneath the creamy layers.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Lush Recipe is one of those sweet treasures that never disappoints. Its mix of crunchy, creamy, and spiced layers makes every bite feel like a celebration of autumn in your mouth. Whether for a holiday feast or an everyday treat, I encourage you to try this recipe—you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite that keeps friends and family coming back for more.

Pumpkin Lush Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 29 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Pumpkin Lush is a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery gingersnap crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, a spiced pumpkin pudding mixture, and topped with fluffy whipped topping and crunchy pecans. Perfectly chilled, this easy-to-make treat combines classic fall flavors with a luscious, creamy texture that’s ideal for gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs (about 40 cookies)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)

Pumpkin Layer

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1½ cups cold milk

Topping and Garnish

1 cup whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
¼ cup chopped pecans
Extra gingersnap cookie crumbs, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Gingersnap Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the gingersnap cookie crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the other layers.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the whipped topping until combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator to keep cool.
Prepare the Pumpkin Layer: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cold milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Top the Dessert: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and extra gingersnap cookie crumbs for garnish.
Chill and Serve: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set firmly. Cut into squares and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.