Easy Pumpkin Delight Recipe: The Creamy Fall Dessert You’ll Make on Repeat

When fall rolls in and the leaves start to turn, pumpkin lovers unite over comforting, spiced desserts. If you’re craving something easier than pie but just as satisfying, this Easy Pumpkin Delight is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, no-fuss dessert layered with a graham cracker crust, spiced pumpkin-marshmallow filling, and fluffy whipped cream—perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or a cozy Sunday dinner.

This recipe delivers the nostalgic taste of pumpkin pie with only five minutes of baking and zero stress. Whether you’re planning ahead for a holiday or need a quick fix for a fall-themed party, this no-bake pumpkin dessert comes together effortlessly and feeds a crowd.

Looking for inspiration? Try No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bites for another easy fall treat!

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Pumpkin Delight Dessert

Tastes just like pumpkin pie with half the effort

Pumpkin Delight mimics the rich, spiced flavor of classic pumpkin pie thanks to a clever combo of pumpkin puree, marshmallows, and pumpkin pie spice. But instead of wrestling with a pastry crust, you simply melt and mix—no rolling, crimping, or blind baking required.

Ideal for gatherings, holidays, and potlucks

This dessert feeds up to 12 generous portions (or up to 24 bite-sized servings). Its 9×13 pan format makes it the perfect potluck dish. The layers hold their shape when sliced, making serving neat and mess-free. Plus, it travels well, so it’s a go-to for family dinners or Friendsgiving feasts.

Don’t miss our Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe if you’re looking to impress a crowd with a showstopper dessert!

Only 5 minutes of baking—then no-bake simplicity

You’ll bake the graham cracker crust for just five minutes to help it set. After that, it’s all about layering and chilling. Once the pumpkin and gelatin mixture is ready, the fridge does the rest of the work. It’s a fantastic option when your oven is already booked with turkey or stuffing.

Check out our Creaminess Baked Mashed Potatoes to round out your holiday menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Delight

Pantry basics you already have

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Notes
Graham cracker crumbs	Use Honey Maid for the best flavor; reserve some for topping
Margarine (or butter)	Melted, to bind the crust
White sugar	Light sweetness for crust and whipped topping
Marshmallows	Acts as both sweetener and stabilizer for the pumpkin layer
Pumpkin puree	Use canned (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
Pumpkin pie spice	Delivers the warm, cozy fall flavor
Clear gelatin (like Knox)	Essential to set the pumpkin layer
Heavy whipping cream	Whip to stiff peaks for the perfect topping

Discover great ideas like our Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake Recipe that also uses pantry staples and warms the soul.

Substitutions & variations for all diets

• Pumpkin: Fresh puree works, but canned is more convenient
• Cool Whip: Can be subbed for real cream if time is tight
• Butter: Use vegan margarine for a dairy-free version
• Crust: Chocolate or gingersnap crumbs add a unique twist
• Gelatin: Ensure it’s clear and unflavored for the cleanest pumpkin layer

For more creative swaps, check out our Healthy Pumpkin Mousse for a lighter take on pumpkin desserts.

Tools to make prep easier and cleaner

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls (microwave safe)
• Silicone spatula
• Electric mixer for whipping cream
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Pumpkin Delight

This dessert is as much about ease as it is about indulgence. With a prep time under 30 minutes (plus chilling), you’ll get maximum flavor with minimal work. Just follow these step-by-step instructions and your pumpkin delight will be picture-perfect.

Making the graham cracker crust

Start with the base of this layered dessert: a golden graham cracker crust. Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spray a 9×13 pan with non-stick spray.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine:
   • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
   • ¼ cup melted margarine or butter
   • 1 tablespoon white sugar
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer.
5. Bake for just 5 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.

Top Tip: Save ¼ cup of graham crumbs for topping the whipped cream layer later.

Mixing the pumpkin-marshmallow layer

This layer is what gives the dessert its smooth, creamy pumpkin pie flavor without actual pie filling or eggs.

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add:
   • 15 oz marshmallows
   • ½ tablespoon water
2. Microwave at 50% power for 2 minutes. Stir and continue microwaving in 30-second bursts until fully melted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix:
   • 28 oz canned pumpkin puree
   • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
4. Combine the pumpkin mixture with the melted marshmallows and stir until smooth.

Setting the pumpkin layer with gelatin

To hold everything together, we use clear gelatin. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Sprinkle a 7 oz packet of gelatin over ¼ cup cold water in a small bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes (do not stir).
2. Meanwhile, microwave another ¼ cup water for 30 seconds, then pour into the bloomed gelatin.
3. Stir until dissolved. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the pumpkin mixture.
4. Whisk the gelatin into the pumpkin-marshmallow blend.
5. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.

Don’t miss our Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe for another gelatin-based pumpkin option.

Whipping and layering the cream topping

Once the pumpkin layer has set, it’s time for the luscious whipped topping.

1. Beat 4 cups heavy whipping cream to soft peaks.
2. Add 2 tablespoons white sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
3. Gently spread the whipped cream over the pumpkin layer using a spatula.
4. Garnish with:
   • The reserved ¼ cup graham crumbs
   • Optional sprinkle of ground cinnamon

Refrigerate until serving. The flavors meld beautifully with time, so feel free to make it a day in advance.

Check out our Pumpkin Spice Milk Recipe for the perfect fall drink to pair with this dessert.

Tips to Perfect Your Pumpkin Delight Every Time

Even though this is a forgiving dessert, a few simple tricks will ensure yours turns out flawless every single time.

Avoid a soggy crust

Make sure to bake the crust for the full 5 minutes and cool it completely before pouring in the pumpkin filling. This keeps the base from softening too quickly.

How to keep marshmallows from sticking

Marshmallows can get sticky fast! Before microwaving them, grease both your bowl and spoon with a little shortening or butter. This simple trick makes cleanup much easier.

Cutting clean slices for serving

Chill the dessert thoroughly (at least 4 hours or overnight) and use a hot knife wiped between slices for clean, sharp edges.

Learn more about techniques like this in our Pumpkin Bundt Cake Recipe that’s perfect for special occasions.

Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead

This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, but you don’t need a crowd to enjoy it. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday or just treating yourself, Pumpkin Delight fits beautifully into any fall dessert lineup.

How long does pumpkin delight last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The texture holds well, and the flavors deepen with time.

Can you freeze this dessert?

Unfortunately, this recipe doesn’t freeze well. The whipped cream and gelatin don’t thaw evenly, so for best texture, enjoy it fresh.

How to prep ahead for holidays or potlucks

Make the crust and pumpkin layer the night before, then add the whipped cream topping the day you plan to serve it. This keeps it looking freshly layered.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats—another make-ahead fall favorite.

FAQs about Easy Pumpkin Delight

Conclusion: The Fall Favorite That’s Always a Hit

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home chef, this Easy Pumpkin Delight is the kind of dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. It’s creamy, spiced, rich, and incredibly simple to make—no fancy tools or tricky techniques required.

From your first slice to the last bite, this pumpkin dessert will impress your guests and become a holiday tradition worth repeating. And with so many variations and simple prep, you’ll want to enjoy it all season long.

Discover great ideas like our Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting for even more fall baking inspiration.

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