When fall rolls around, pumpkin-flavored desserts become the highlight of the season, and this No-Bake Pumpkin Delight is one of the easiest and tastiest treats to whip up! With its layers of creamy goodness and buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert captures all the cozy flavors of autumn without needing to turn on the oven. I love making it for family gatherings or simply as a quick dessert to satisfy those fall cravings. It’s light, creamy, and the perfect balance of pumpkin and spices.
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
This No-Bake Pumpkin Delight is a dreamy combination of smooth pumpkin filling, sweet cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. It's a no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for when you want something sweet but don’t have much time to spare. The light layers make it ideal for serving after a big meal, and the fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring that warm, seasonal flavor everyone loves.
Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Delight
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
For Garnish:
- Extra whipped topping for layering
- Chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form an even layer for the crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, creating an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Layer
In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth and thickened. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Top the pumpkin layer with an additional layer of whipped topping, spreading it evenly to cover the pumpkin mixture. For garnish, sprinkle chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers over the top to add texture and flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set properly. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve this delightful, no-bake treat!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve this No-Bake Pumpkin Delight chilled, either as is or topped with a bit of extra whipped cream and pecans for added crunch. It's a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving, fall potlucks, or any autumn-inspired gathering.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dessert stays light and fluffy, making it a great make-ahead option.
Helpful Notes
- Graham Cracker Crust: If you want to add more flavor, you can mix in a little cinnamon into the graham cracker crumbs before pressing them into the dish.
- Homemade Whipped Topping: If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can substitute the Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream for an even creamier texture.
- Customize the Garnish: If pecans aren't your favorite, feel free to use other toppings like crushed gingersnaps or caramel drizzle for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s smooth and has been drained of any excess water for the best consistency.
Q2: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dessert is best when made ahead and refrigerated for several hours or overnight, allowing the layers to set properly.
Q3: What other toppings can I use besides pecans?
You can get creative with toppings! Crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, caramel sauce, or even a dusting of cinnamon are great options for this dessert.
Q4: Can I freeze this dessert?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze No-Bake Pumpkin Delight for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly and thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Q5: Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
Yes! Vanilla pudding is a classic choice, but you can experiment with flavors like butterscotch or cheesecake pudding mix to add a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Pumpkin Delight is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of rich fall flavors. The creamy layers of pumpkin and whipped cream, combined with the crunchy graham cracker crust, make this dessert a wonderful treat to enjoy during the autumn season. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or just craving a sweet pumpkin dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!
No-Bake Pumpkin Delight
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping like Cool Whip
For the Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree
- 1 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
For Garnish:
- Extra whipped topping for layering
- Chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form an even layer for the crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, creating an even layer.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Layer
- In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth and thickened. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Top the pumpkin layer with an additional layer of whipped topping, spreading it evenly to cover the pumpkin mixture. For garnish, sprinkle chopped pecans or crushed graham crackers over the top to add texture and flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set properly. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve this delightful, no-bake treat!
Notes
- Graham Cracker Crust: If you want to add more flavor, you can mix in a little cinnamon into the graham cracker crumbs before pressing them into the dish.
- Homemade Whipped Topping: If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can substitute the Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream for an even creamier texture.
- Customize the Garnish: If pecans aren't your favorite, feel free to use other toppings like crushed gingersnaps or caramel drizzle for extra flavor.
