Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding is the ultimate fall dessert that combines creamy layers, spiced pumpkin, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake treat is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging your pumpkin cravings. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding
This dessert is:
- Easy to make: No baking required, just simple steps to layer and chill.
- Perfectly spiced: The pumpkin layer is infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Light and creamy: Each layer is smooth, fluffy, and melts in your mouth.
- Ideal for sharing: Serves a crowd and looks beautiful in a dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to create this delectable dessert:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Graham cracker crumbs | 1 ½ cups |
Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ cup |
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz |
Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
Whipped topping (Cool Whip) | 1 cup |
For the Pumpkin Layer:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Canned pumpkin puree | 1 cup |
Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Ground nutmeg | ½ tsp |
Ground ginger | ¼ tsp |
For the Topping:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Whipped topping (Cool Whip) | 8 oz |
How to Make Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully combined.
- Spread this layer evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Layer
- In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 4: Add the Final Topping
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
- Optionally, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or crushed graham cracker crumbs for garnish.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the dessert is fully set.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 32g |
Sugar | 20g |
Protein | 3g |
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding
- Use softened cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly and prevents lumps in the filling.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the dessert to chill for at least 3 hours ensures the layers set properly.
- Customize the spices: Adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to suit your taste preferences.
- Make it ahead: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or toffee bits on top for added texture and flavor.
FAQs About Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding
1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip? Yes, homemade whipped cream works beautifully. Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Can I use a different crust? Absolutely! Try a gingersnap crust or an Oreo crust for a twist on the classic graham cracker base.
3. How long does this dessert last? Pumpkin Delight can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly to prevent it from drying out.
4. Can I freeze this dessert? While freezing is possible, the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly. If you freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. What can I use instead of pumpkin puree? Mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree are great substitutes for pumpkin puree.
6. Can I make this dessert gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
Why This Dessert is Perfect for Fall
Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices, creamy layers, and rich pumpkin flavor. It’s an elegant yet simple dessert that fits any fall occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday celebrations.
Make Your Pumpkin Delight Today
Ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert? Gather your ingredients and start layering! Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Happy creating!
PrintPumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Pumpkin Delight with Vanilla Pudding is a no-bake dessert that combines spiced pumpkin, creamy layers, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This fall favorite is easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging in the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
For the Pumpkin Layer:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
For the Topping:
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Layer
- In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Mix until smooth and evenly spiced.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Add the Final Topping
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pumpkin layer.
- Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Slice into squares, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or graham cracker crumbs (optional), and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American