Pumpkin Delight Dessert

Name: Pumpkin Delight Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-479370H46M42S
Total time: PT-479370H46M42S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix; 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 cups cold milk; 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip); Additional chopped pecans or cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Experience the essence of autumn with this indulgent Pumpkin Delight Dessert! Featuring a rich, buttery crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, spiced pumpkin pudding, and a light whipped topping, this layered dessert is an irresistible addition to your fall celebrations and holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, Pumpkin Delight Dessert is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

01 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the Pumpkin Layer:

2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

2 cups cold milk

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Additional chopped pecans or cinnamon for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans until well mixed.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Prepare the Pumpkin Layer:

In another large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cold milk until the mixture is thick and smooth.

Spread the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.

Add the Topping:

Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin layer.

Garnish with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to let it set properly.

Slice and serve chilled for a delightful autumn treat.

Serving Tips:

Chill Before Serving: Make sure to refrigerate the Pumpkin Delight Dessert for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set properly and enhances the flavors.

Slice Neatly: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices. If the dessert is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier.

Garnish Just Before Serving: If using optional garnishes like chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon, add them just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Serve Chilled: For the best taste and texture, serve the dessert chilled. It’s a refreshing and cool treat, perfect for fall gatherings.

Pairing Suggestions: Pumpkin Delight Dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cider or coffee. For an extra festive touch, consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Pumpkin Delight Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4-5 days.

Cover Well: To prevent the dessert from absorbing other odors in the fridge, make sure it is well-covered with plastic wrap or a lid.

Freezing (Optional): While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen if needed. To freeze, wrap the dessert tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Avoiding Sogginess: If the dessert starts to become too soggy after a few days, you might want to add a fresh layer of whipped topping before serving.

Related Recipes:

Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute the chopped pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them finely and adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pumpkin Delight Dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just prepare it as directed, store it covered in the refrigerator, and add any optional garnishes right before serving.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin if you prefer. Cook and puree the pumpkin, then measure out 1 cup to use in the recipe. Make sure the puree is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

While the recipe calls for vanilla pudding mix, you could experiment with other flavors like butterscotch for a different twist. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so choose a pudding mix that complements the pumpkin and spice layers.

Conclusion:

Pumpkin Delight Dessert is the ultimate fall indulgence, combining creamy textures with warm, spiced flavors. Perfect for any autumn occasion, it will become a new favorite at your seasonal celebrations. Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends, and embrace the flavors of fall!