This creamy, dreamy Pumpkin Lush is the ultimate no-bake dessert for fall! With luscious layers of spiced pumpkin, whipped topping, and a buttery cookie crust, it’s every bit as indulgent as it sounds—but surprisingly simple to throw together. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast or just craving something sweet and seasonal on a busy weeknight, this layered dessert delivers pure comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Layers: Each layer is easy to mix and assemble, with no baking required—perfect for when the oven is already busy with other holiday dishes.
Velvety and Light: The texture is irresistibly creamy with a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth finish that won’t weigh you down after a meal.
Crowd Favorite: With its autumn-inspired flavors and gorgeous presentation, it’s always a showstopper at gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert actually gets better as it chills, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this irresistible pumpkin lush and why each element matters:

Golden sandwich cookies: Crushed and combined with melted butter to form a sweet, slightly crunchy crust.
Butter: Melted and mixed into the cookie crumbs to bind the crust together.
Cream cheese: Adds a tangy, creamy base layer that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer without adding any grit.
Whipped topping: Used in multiple layers to keep the dessert light and airy.
Pumpkin puree: Brings that classic fall flavor to the forefront. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds structure and sweetness to the pumpkin layer without needing to cook anything.
Milk: Helps set the pudding and create a smooth texture in the pumpkin layer.
Pumpkin pie spice: A warm, cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that gives the dessert its signature autumn flavor.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a little crunch on top, and a nutty contrast to the creamy layers.

Variations

Want to play around with the layers? Here are some fun twists to try:

Ginger Snap Crust: Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of golden cookies for a spicier, bolder crust.
Chocolate Touch: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate pudding for a twist that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Spice it Up: Increase the pumpkin pie spice or add a dash of allspice for a deeper, more aromatic flavor.
Nut-Free Version: Simply skip the nuts on top if you’re serving someone with an allergy—or replace with crushed graham crackers or toffee bits.

How to Make Pumpkin Lush

Step 1: Make the Crust

Crush your cookies in a food processor or by hand using a zip-top bag and rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined, then press the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish. Chill to set while you prep the next layers.

Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in a generous scoop of whipped topping until fluffy. Spread this over the chilled crust.

Step 3: Whip Up the Pumpkin Layer

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, dry pudding mix, milk, and pumpkin pie spice until creamy and thick. Spread this on top of the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer, smoothing out the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Sprinkle chopped nuts (if using) over the top for a little texture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Cold Whipped Topping: Make sure it’s chilled but not frozen—it spreads more easily and keeps the texture light.
Chill for Best Results: The longer it chills, the better it tastes. Give it at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can.
Don’t Overmix the Pudding Layer: Mix just until combined so it sets properly without becoming too runny.
Neat Layers: Clean your spatula between spreading each layer to keep those beautiful, distinct layers.

How to Serve

Serve this Pumpkin Lush chilled, straight from the fridge, sliced into neat squares. It’s rich enough to serve on its own, but for a little extra flair, try these pairings:

Garnishes

A drizzle of caramel sauce
A light dusting of cinnamon
A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice

Beverages

A hot cup of coffee or chai
A glass of cold milk for kids
For adults, a small pour of bourbon cream or spiced liqueur on the side

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or store individual slices in airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze Pumpkin Lush (without the nuts or garnishes) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, as long as it’s well-puréed and not too watery. Be sure to strain or blot any excess moisture, or the pudding layer may not set correctly.

What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?
You can use cook-and-serve pudding, but you’ll need to let it cool completely before mixing with the pumpkin. Instant is much easier and faster, especially for no-bake desserts.

Is it okay to make Pumpkin Lush the night before?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight. The flavors blend and the layers firm up beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the cookies in the crust with a gluten-free alternative, and double-check all packaged ingredients like pudding mix and whipped topping.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Lush is everything a fall dessert should be—creamy, cozy, spiced just right, and effortless to make. Whether you’re prepping it for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet after dinner, it’s a guaranteed win. Try it once, and you’ll be looking for excuses to make it all season long!

Pumpkin Lush Recipe