Print

Pumpkin Delight Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 56 reviews

Pumpkin Delight is a decadent layered dessert combining a crunchy pecan and graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, spiced pumpkin fluff, and luscious homemade whipped topping, all topped with crunchy toffee bits. This no-bake, freezer-set treat is perfect for autumn celebrations or anytime you crave a rich pumpkin-flavored indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup pecans
  • 9 whole rectangle graham cracker sheets
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Homemade Whipped Topping

  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cheesecake Layer

  • 8 ounces block cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 ½ cups homemade whipped topping (from above)

Pumpkin Fluff Layer

  • 5.1 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 15 oz. can pumpkin puree
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 cup homemade whipped topping (from above)

Topping

  • Remaining homemade whipped topping
  • 8 oz. bag toffee bits (such as Heath Bits of Brickle with chocolate)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pecan Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Add pecans and graham cracker sheets to a food processor and pulse until coarsely ground. Add granulated sugar and melted butter, then process until the mixture is finely ground and thoroughly combined. Press this mixture evenly into a lightly greased 9×13 inch pan using the bottom of a glass. Bake for 15 minutes, then let it cool completely before layering.
  2. Make Homemade Whipped Topping: In a small bowl, stir together water and unflavored gelatin and let sit for 5 minutes. Microwave this mixture for 20 seconds, stir well, then set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric handheld mixer until soft peaks form (peaks flop over when beaters are lifted). Lower the mixer speed and slowly add the gelatin mixture. Mix until combined, then increase speed to medium and whip until stiff peaks form (peaks stand straight up). Set aside.
  3. Prepare Cheesecake Layer: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and milk together until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 ½ cups of the homemade whipped topping until well combined. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled pecan crust. Place the pan in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to firm up the layer.
  4. Make Pumpkin Fluff Layer: Beat instant vanilla pudding mix with milk using a handheld mixer for 2 minutes until thickened. Stir in pumpkin puree and spices (ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). Fold in 1 cup of homemade whipped topping gently until incorporated. Spread this fluffy pumpkin mixture over the cheesecake layer. Freeze again for 10-20 minutes to set.
  5. Add Whipped Topping Layer: Spread the remaining homemade whipped topping evenly over the pumpkin fluff layer. If the whipped topping becomes too stiff to spread, loosen it by folding in a few tablespoons of additional heavy cream until spreadable.
  6. Top with Toffee Bits: Immediately sprinkle the toffee bits evenly over the final whipped topping layer.
  7. Chill the Dessert: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For neat slices, freeze for a few hours before slicing, then thaw slices in the fridge prior to serving. Alternatively, scoop and serve for a less structured but equally delicious experience.

Notes

  • You can prepare the homemade whipped topping in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  • Ensure the crust is completely cool before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent melting or mixing.
  • The dessert can be frozen to set layers and sliced easily, but it tastes great even if served a bit softer.
  • Use full-fat ingredients for the best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust the pumpkin spice according to your taste preference.

Keywords: pumpkin dessert, layered pumpkin dessert, pecan crust dessert, no-bake pumpkin cheesecake, fall dessert, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/pumpkin-delight-recipe/