Description
Pumpkin Lush is a luscious layered dessert featuring a gingersnap cookie crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, a spiced pumpkin pudding topping, and a final layer of whipped topping garnished with chopped pecans and extra cookie crumbs. Perfect for fall gatherings, it blends seasonal spices with smooth textures for a festive treat.
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
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.
- 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 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. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother layer.
- Use homemade whipped cream or store-bought whipped topping based on preference.
- For extra flavor, lightly toast the chopped pecans before sprinkling on top.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld even better.
- Keep refrigerated; best served chilled.
