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Pumpkin Delight

Category: Sweet Treats Everyone Will Love

This is like a fall twist on a dessert lasagna! Layers of buttery pecan crust, creamy cheese filling, spiced pumpkin pudding, and fluffy whipped topping come together. It’s even better made the night before your party.

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Emily Watson
By Emily Watson Emily Watson
Last updated on Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:06:45 GMT
A slice of pumpkin dessert with creamy layers, pecans, and cocoa dusting on a plate. Pin
A slice of pumpkin dessert with creamy layers, pecans, and cocoa dusting on a plate. | thefamilycooks.com

Need a jaw-dropping autumn sweet treat? Pumpkin Delight stacks a nutty pecan bottom, smooth pumpkin middle, and fluffy cream topping in one stunning layered dessert. Every mouthful feels like fall in dessert form, making this treat perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings alike.

An Irresistible Autumn Treat

There's a good reason why Pumpkin Delight quickly becomes everyone's favorite - it easily serves lots of people and those striking layers grab attention whenever you serve it. You can prep it beforehand which really helps during hectic holiday times. From the nutty crunchy bottom to the silky pumpkin center, each component brings its own magic to the mix.

What You'll Need

  • Crunchy Bottom: Combine flour pecans and butter for that delicious base.
  • Velvety Layer: Whipped topping powdered sugar and cream cheese.
  • Pumpkin Wonder: Warm spices white chocolate pudding and real pumpkin.
  • Fluffy Top: Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream.
  • Finishing Touch: Cinnamon Heath bits or pecans for garnish.

Building Your Dessert

Starting Point
Combine the pecan base push into your dish bake till lightly browned.
Silky Second Layer
Beat sugar cream cheese and topping layer over the cooled base.
Pumpkin Center
Mix milk pudding pumpkin and spices add topping spread evenly.
Finishing Touch
Cover with whipped cream add your favorite toppings let it chill thoroughly.
A layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and chopped nuts sits on a baking tray. Pin
A layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and chopped nuts sits on a baking tray. | thefamilycooks.com

Tips For Perfect Results

Don't skip the instant pudding - it thickens nicely and holds shape well. Make sure your Pumpkin Delight gets enough time in the fridge to set properly. Want a gluten-free version? Try smashed gluten-free cookies for your base instead. Adding toffee pieces on top makes it look extra fancy.

Storage Advice

This dessert stays good in your fridge for about three days. Want to keep it longer? Wrap it carefully and stick it in the freezer for up to two months. It's so nice having a piece of this fall favorite waiting whenever you're in the mood.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How early can it be made?

Make it a day before—24 hours is just right for the layers to set and flavors to meld.

→ Is a 9x13 pan okay?

It works fine! Be sure to increase the crust mix proportionally to maintain its thickness.

→ Can I swap Cool Whip for real whipped cream?

Cool Whip is sturdier and holds up much better than fresh whipped cream over time.

→ Does the crust need to chill first?

Yes, let the crust cool completely so the cream cheese filling stays firm and doesn't melt.

→ Are leftovers freezer-friendly?

Freezing isn't advised; the texture of the layers gets weird once thawed.

Pumpkin Delight

Sweet layers of pecan crust, pumpkin pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping blend into a dessert that's perfect for gatherings.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
35 mins
By Emily Watson: Emily Watson

Recipe Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Makes: 12 Serves (1 pan)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You’ll Need

01 1/2 cup butter, softened.
02 8 ounces cream cheese, softened.
03 1 cup powdered sugar.
04 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice.
05 1 cup all-purpose flour.
06 2 1/2 cups milk.
07 1 cup whipped topping.
08 Another cup of whipped topping.
09 3 packs (3.4 oz each) white chocolate pudding mix.
10 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree.
11 1 cup chopped pecans, divided.
12 Pecans left for sprinkling.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Stir together some flour, butter, and 1/2 cup pecans. Push the mix into a greased 9x9 pan. Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, then let it cool down all the way.

Step 02

Whip cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping (1 cup). Spread it nice and even over the crust once it's cool.

Step 03

Stir milk and pudding together first, then toss in pumpkin and spice. Gently fold in whipped topping (1 cup) too. Spread it over the layer of cream cheese.

Step 04

Spread the last whipped topping over the layers. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Let it chill in the fridge for 3 hours.

Additional Notes

  1. Tastes best if made a day ahead.
  2. Stays fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.
  3. For a 9x13 pan, scale up the crust ingredients a bit.
  4. Cool Whip works well for keeping the texture stable.

Essential Tools

  • A 9x9 pan for baking.
  • Bowls for mixing ingredients.
  • An electric mixer.

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, whipped topping).
  • Has wheat (flour).
  • Includes nuts (pecans).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for guidance only and don't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 430
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Proteins: 6 g