Pumpkin Delight (Layered, Creamy, and Dreamy Fall Dessert!)

This Pumpkin Delight is a layered dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious! It features a buttery graham cracker and pecan crust, a creamy, no-bake cheesecake layer, a spiced pumpkin layer, and a fluffy Cool Whip topping. I love how this dessert combines the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all in an easy-to-make, no-fuss format. It's perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or any time you're craving a taste of autumn.

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Delight

• Layered Deliciousness: The combination of the crunchy crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced pumpkin, and fluffy Cool Whip creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
• No-Bake Cheesecake Layer: The cheesecake layer is no-bake, making this dessert even easier to prepare.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can make this dessert ahead of time and chill it until ready to serve.
• Perfect for Fall: Packed with pumpkin and warm spices, it's the quintessential fall dessert.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is always a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Delight

Here's what you'll need to make this layered dessert. The full list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs (Crumb)
• Pecans, chopped super fine or crushed (Nuts)
• Sugar (Sweetener)
• Pumpkin pie spice (Spice Blend)
• Butter, melted (Fat)

Filling

• Whipping cream, chilled (Dairy)
• Cream cheese, softened (Dairy)
• Powdered sugar (Sweetener)
• Vanilla extract (Flavoring)
• Pumpkin puree (Vegetable)
• Brown sugar (Sweetener)
• Pumpkin pie spice (Spice Blend)
• Cool Whip (Topping)
• Pecans
• Cinnamon

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Variations

I love this Pumpkin Delight as is, but here are a few ideas for variations:

• Different Crust: Use a gingersnap cookie crust or a shortbread crust instead of a graham cracker crust.
• Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or stir in some chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer.
• Different Nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans in the crust or topping.
• Make it Lighter: Use light cream cheese and light Cool Whip for a lower-fat version.
• Spice it up

How to Make Pumpkin Delight

Let me show you how to make this layered masterpiece:

Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, I mix together the graham cracker crumbs, crushed pecans, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and melted butter.
2. I press the mixture into an 8x8 inch dish, flattening it using the bottom of a flat glass.
3. I place the crust in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm it up.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, I mix until the mixture is light and fluffy and there are no lumps. I set this aside.
2. In a chilled medium mixing bowl, I pour the heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer on high, I beat the cream until stiff peaks form, about 5 minutes.
3. I gently add the heavy whipping cream to the cream cheese mixture and fold them together with a rubber spatula until combined.
4. I spoon half of the cream cheese/whipped cream mixture on top of the chilled graham cracker crust.
5. I set other half aside
6. I put the dish on the fridge.

Make the Pumpkin Layer

1. In the bowl with the remaining cream cheese/whipping cream mixture, I add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. I gently fold everything together until it's combined and has a uniform color.

Assemble the Layers

1. I spoon the pumpkin mixture on top of the cream cheese layer in the 8x8 dish.
2. I spread the Cool Whip on top as the final layer.

Garnish and Chill

1. I garnish with the remaining ¼ cup of chopped pecans and a dusting of cinnamon, if desired.
2. I chill the dessert for at least one hour before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.

Tips and Tricks for the BEST Pumpkin Delight

Here are my secrets for making this dessert truly exceptional:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Whip the Cream to Stiff Peaks: Whipping the heavy cream to stiff peaks creates a light and airy texture for the cheesecake layer.
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the cream cheese mixture can make it runny. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Chill Before Serving: Chilling the dessert for at least an hour allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld.

How to Serve

This Pumpkin Delight is perfect for:

• Thanksgiving Dessert: A delicious and festive alternative to traditional pumpkin pie.
• Fall Gatherings: A perfect dessert for potlucks, parties, or any fall celebration.
• Special Occasions: A beautiful and impressive dessert for any special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dessert is perfect for making ahead! You can assemble it completely and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs about Pumpkin Delight

• Can I use a different type of crust?
  • Yes, you can use a gingersnap cookie crust or a shortbread crust.
• Can I make this without the Cool Whip?
  • Yes, you can substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream.
• Can I freeze this dessert?
  • Yes, you can freeze it.

Enjoy this layered, creamy, and incredibly delicious Pumpkin Delight! It's a perfect fall dessert that's sure to impress.

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