Pumpkin Lush

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This Pumpkin Lush is a layered no-bake dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy layers of pumpkin and vanilla pudding, and a whipped topping sprinkled with toffee bits and chocolate chips, this dessert is as indulgent as it is easy to make. Each layer adds a unique texture and flavor, creating a treat that will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

For the Layers:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (brick style, not whipped, not lite or reduced fat)
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 ¼ cups cold milk (use cow’s milk; alternative milks won’t thicken properly)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 8 oz tub whipped topping, thawed (fat-free or lite is okay; divided)

Toppings:

  • ½ cup toffee bits
  • ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Mix the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until evenly moistened.
  2. Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add Whipped Topping: Fold in half (4 oz) of the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
  3. Spread Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Layer

  1. Make the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until it begins to thicken.
  2. Add Pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until fully combined.
  3. Spread Layer: Spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping

  1. Add Final Layer: Gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 5: Add Toppings

  1. Sprinkle Toppings: Sprinkle the toffee bits and mini chocolate chips evenly over the top layer.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

  1. Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Tips and Variations

  • Make It Nutty: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Spice Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Customize the Topping: Substitute the toffee bits and chocolate chips with crushed gingersnaps, caramel drizzle, or chopped candy bars.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Lush is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s rich, creamy, and full of fall flavors. With its layered textures and crowd-pleasing ingredients, it’s perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving, or any cozy autumn gathering.