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Pumpkin Lush

Delicious Slice of Pumpkin Lush Dessert

This Pumpkin Lush dessert is a layered delight, starting with a pecan crust, followed by a creamy cheese layer, a pumpkin spice filling, and topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering!

Ingredients

Scale
  • Crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into pieces
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • Cream Cheese Layer:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pumpkin Layer:
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • Topping:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and pecans. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
  3. Press the dough into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
  5. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  6. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
  7. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  8. Prepare the Pumpkin Layer: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, pumpkin pie spice, and milk until smooth.
  9. Let the mixture stand for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
  10. Gently spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  11. Make the Topping: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
  12. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  13. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the pumpkin layer.
  14. Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  15. Serve: Before serving, dust the top with ground cinnamon.

Notes

For an extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans before chopping them. You can also use a graham cracker crust instead of the pecan crust. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.