Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert Recipe

Sweet Dreams: The Irresistible Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert Recipe

Layers of creamy decadence meet autumn’s most beloved squash in this unexpected pumpkin lasagna dessert that will revolutionize your sweet tooth.

Silky smooth pumpkin puree weaves through delicate pastry sheets, creating a dessert that dances between comfort and elegance.

Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg embrace each layer, promising a rich sensory experience.

Ricotta cheese adds luxurious creaminess, while a hint of vanilla whispers sophistication.

Mascarpone brings a gentle sweetness that balances the earthy pumpkin perfectly.

Each forkful promises a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that capture the essence of fall.

Prepare to be transported by this enchanting dessert that turns traditional lasagna on its head.

Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert: Creamy, Spiced, And Dreamy

  • This pumpkin lasagna dessert offers a stunning visual treat with its beautifully stacked layers of creamy textures and seasonal flavors.
  • No baking needed! Simply mix, layer, and chill, making it perfect for novice bakers or anyone wanting a hassle-free dessert experience.
  • Packed with classic fall spices and pumpkin, this dessert captures the warmth of autumn in every delectable bite, making it ideal for gatherings and holiday celebrations.
  • Flexible recipe allows simple garnish variations like white chocolate curls or festive sprinkles, letting you personalize the dessert to match any occasion or personal taste preference.

Ingredients Behind Every Layer Of Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert

Crust Base:
  • Vanilla Wafer Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a crunchy foundation for the dessert.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of spices that adds a cozy autumn flavor to the crust.
  • Melted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden base.
Cream Cheese Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy texture for the dessert layer.
  • Dark Brown Sugar: Adds depth of flavor and a subtle caramel-like sweetness.
  • Sour Cream: Provides tanginess and helps create a light, fluffy consistency.
  • Cool Whip: Adds extra creaminess and helps create a light, airy texture.
Pumpkin Layer:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Brings the classic fall flavor and vibrant orange color to the dessert.
  • Whole Milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy pumpkin layer.
  • French Vanilla Pudding Mix: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the pumpkin layer.
Garnish:
  • White Chocolate Curls: Provides an elegant and decorative topping.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds an extra sprinkle of warm, autumnal flavor.
  • Fall Sprinkles: Optional decoration to enhance the seasonal theme.

Kitchen Tools For Dessert Lasagna Layering

  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Essential for beating cream cheese and sugar to light, fluffy consistency.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining cream cheese mixture.
  • Medium Mixing Bowl: Used for preparing pumpkin layer.
  • 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: Perfect size for layering and chilling the dessert.
  • Offset Spatula: Crucial for smoothing layers evenly and creating clean, professional presentation.
  • Whisk: Required for blending crust ingredients and pumpkin layer.
  • Plastic Wrap: Used for covering and protecting dessert while chilling.

Assembling Pumpkin Dessert Lasagna, One Layer At A Time

Step 1: Craft Crunchy Crust

Grab vanilla wafer crumbs and pumpkin pie spice.

Combine these ingredients thoroughly:
  • Vanilla wafer crumbs
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Pour melted butter into the mixture and blend completely.

Press the crumbly mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Chill the crust in the refrigerator to set.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Cream Cheese Base

Using a mixer, blend cream cheese and dark brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and airy.

Continue mixing for about 5 minutes to achieve a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Smooth Sour Cream

Gently fold sour cream into the cream cheese mixture.

Add Cool Whip and blend until just combined, maintaining a silky smooth consistency.

Step 4: Spread Cream Cheese Layer

Transfer the cream cheese mixture onto the chilled crust.

Use an offset spatula to create an even, smooth layer across the entire surface.

Step 5: Prepare Pumpkin Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Whole milk
  • French vanilla pudding mix

Blend until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Layer Pumpkin Goodness

Remove the pan from the refrigerator.

Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese layer.

Use an offset spatula to distribute evenly and create a perfect surface.

Step 7: Top With Fluffy Clouds

Delicately scoop remaining Cool Whip over the pumpkin layer.

Smooth the top with a clean offset spatula to create a gorgeous finish.

Step 8: Chill To Perfection

Cover the dessert with plastic wrap.

Return to the refrigerator and let it set for 5 hours, or ideally overnight.

Step 9: Decorate And Serve

Garnish with elegant white chocolate curls.

Sprinkle a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice and festive fall sprinkles.

Slice and serve chilled for a spectacular dessert experience.

Tips For Luscious Layers And Autumn Spice

  • Use a food processor to create fine, uniform vanilla wafer crumbs for a smoother, more consistent crust texture.
  • Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before beating to ensure a silky, lump-free mixture that blends smoothly.
  • Fold Cool Whip gently to maintain its light, airy structure and prevent deflating the creamy layers.
  • Let the dessert set overnight to allow flavors to meld and develop a rich, harmonious taste profile.
  • Create delicate white chocolate curls using a vegetable peeler and a room-temperature chocolate bar for an elegant presentation.

Fun Ways To Remix Your Pumpkin Dessert Lasagna

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Parfait: Replace vanilla wafer crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for a celiac-friendly dessert option.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Dream: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream, use coconut whipped topping instead of Cool Whip, and substitute dairy milk with almond milk for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Autumn Layers: Use sugar-free pudding mix, replace dark brown sugar with stevia, and select a low-fat cream cheese to reduce overall sugar and calorie content.
  • No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups: Transform the recipe into individual servings by layering ingredients in small mason jars or clear glasses for easier portion control and elegant presentation.

Perfect Serving Ideas For Pumpkin Lasagna Slices

  • Festive Fall Feast: Sprinkle white chocolate curls and a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice on top to create a stunning seasonal dessert that looks as delicious as it tastes.
  • Cozy Gathering Treat: Perfect for autumn potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday parties where guests will love the creamy, layered pumpkin dessert with its rich textures and flavors.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert the night before your event, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly, giving you stress-free party prep time.
  • Elegant Presentation Hack: Serve chilled in individual dessert glasses or small mason jars for a sophisticated twist that makes each serving look professionally crafted.

Pumpkin Lasagna Storage Tips

  • Transfer remaining lasagna into an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep refrigerated for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap the dessert tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for 2-3 months. Freeze without the chocolate curls or sprinkle toppings.
  • Move frozen lasagna to the refrigerator 6-8 hours before serving. Allow slow, gentle thawing to preserve texture and prevent moisture separation.
  • Remove from refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh white chocolate curls and optional fall sprinkles to restore its original presentation.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this pumpkin lasagna unique?

The recipe combines unexpected dessert elements like vanilla wafer crumbs, cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and Cool Whip to create a layered, no-bake sweet treat that’s different from traditional pumpkin desserts.

  • Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes, it’s very easy to make. The recipe requires no baking, uses simple mixing techniques, and involves layering ingredients without complex cooking methods, making it perfect for novice bakers.

  • Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually requires 5 hours of chilling time, preferably overnight, which makes it an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings. You can prepare it completely in advance and keep it refrigerated.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert Recipe

Pumpkin Lasagna Dessert Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Silky pumpkin lasagna marries Italian tradition with autumn comfort. Layers of creamy mascarpone, spiced pumpkin, and delicate pastry create a dessert that welcomes you into seasonal warmth.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups canned pumpkin puree
  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 16 ounces (454 grams) Cool Whip, thawed, divided
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup whole milk

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
  • 3.4 ounces (96 grams) instant French vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed

Binding and Garnish Ingredients:

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
  • White chocolate curls, for serving
  • Pumpkin pie spice, optional garnish
  • Fall sprinkles, optional garnish

Instructions

  1. Crush vanilla wafers and pumpkin pie spice together, then incorporate melted butter to create a cohesive mixture. Press firmly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and refrigerate for 15 minutes to solidify.
  2. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and dark brown sugar until achieving a light, airy texture, approximately 3-4 minutes at medium speed.
  3. Gently integrate sour cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Carefully fold in two cups of Cool Whip, maintaining a smooth, consistent texture.
  4. Transfer the cream cheese mixture into the chilled crust, spreading evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
  5. Combine pumpkin puree, whole milk, and French vanilla pudding mix in a separate bowl, whisking until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
  6. Delicately pour the pumpkin layer over the cream cheese layer, using a spatula to distribute evenly without disturbing the underlying layer.
  7. Distribute remaining Cool Whip across the pumpkin layer in gentle dollops, smoothing with a clean spatula to create an attractive finish.
  8. Securely cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 5-6 hours, ideally overnight, allowing flavors to meld and layers to set completely.
  9. Before serving, embellish with white chocolate curls, a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice, and optional festive sprinkles. Slice and serve chilled for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Crust Perfection: Use graham cracker crumbs as an alternative to vanilla wafers for a slightly different flavor profile and texture.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream to make the dessert vegan-friendly.
  • Spice Enhancement: Increase the pumpkin pie spice in the crust for a more intense seasonal flavor, or create a custom spice blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  • Decoration Creativity: Create chocolate shavings instead of white chocolate curls for a rich contrast, or use crushed pecans as an additional garnish for extra crunch.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Desserts
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star