Directions to follow
- Combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 pan to form your crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust to create a smooth layer.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, and pumpkin pie spice with the electric mixer until everything is well blended and smooth.
- Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, then top it with the remaining whipped topping.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours before serving to let the layers set. For a firmer texture, freeze for an hour and let it thaw for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Just before serving, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers and a dash of cinnamon on top. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve this No Bake Pumpkin Lush chilled for a refreshing treat. To elevate the experience, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or drizzling it with caramel sauce. Fresh pecans or walnuts make a delightful topping for a bit of crunch, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side blends beautifully with the pumpkin flavors. It’s also lovely alongside a cup of spiced chai or a warm apple cider, perfect for those cozy autumn evenings.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. This dessert will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze it, slice it into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain that creamy texture, but don’t worry—it will still taste just as delicious!
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results with your No Bake Pumpkin Lush, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to blend easily without lumps. If you’re short on time, you can make the graham cracker crust ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Also, feel free to play around with spices; adding nutmeg or ginger can bring an extra depth of flavor to your pumpkin layer!
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your No Bake Pumpkin Lush! Try swapping out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato for a slightly different flavor profile. You could also experiment with a chocolate crust by using chocolate graham crackers or adding chocolate chips to the filling. For a healthier spin, substitute Greek yogurt for the whipped topping. The variations are endless, so have fun and let your taste buds guide you!
Common questions
How long does it take to make this dessert?
Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, but you will need to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dessert tastes even better the longer it chills. You can make it a day ahead of your gathering for a hassle-free experience.
Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative, use coconut whipped cream instead of the whipped topping, and ensure your graham crackers don’t contain any dairy.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Certainly! If you choose to use fresh pumpkin, just make sure to cook and puree it until it’s smooth. This will enhance the flavor, but the canned version is perfectly convenient too!
