Description
Seasonal pumpkin delight brings warm autumn memories to life with classic spices and velvety texture. Creamy layers of sweet pumpkin promise comfort and nostalgia you can savor in each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies:
- 3 cups ginger snap cookies
Butter:
- 6 tablespoons (89 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
Spices and Sweeteners:
- Optional: cinnamon
- Optional: sugar
Instructions
- Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by thoroughly coating the interior with a thin layer of butter or shortening to prevent sticking.
- Transform ginger snap cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor, pulsing until achieving a consistent texture.
- Incorporate melted butter into the cookie crumbs while processing at low speed, continuing until the mixture coheres and pulls away from the processor walls.
- Transfer the crumb mixture into the prepared dish, pressing firmly to create an even, compact base layer, then refrigerate for 20 minutes to solidify.
- Combine softened cream cheese and sugar in a mixing bowl, utilizing an electric mixer to create a silky, lump-free consistency.
- Gently fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until thoroughly integrated.
- Distribute the cream cheese blend evenly over the chilled crust, then return to the refrigerator for one hour.
- Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with milk until smooth and thickened.
- Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice into the pudding, stirring until completely blended.
- Fold whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring uniform distribution.
- Carefully spread the pumpkin layer over the chilled cream cheese layer, then refrigerate for an additional hour.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar using an electric mixer, beating until stiff peaks form and the texture becomes light and voluminous.
- Apply the whipped cream as a final layer, covering the entire surface evenly.
- Seal the dessert with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, dust the top with a delicate sprinkle of ground cinnamon and slice into portions while thoroughly chilled.
Notes
- Substitute ginger snap cookies with graham crackers or gluten-free alternatives for dietary restrictions.
- Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to prevent lumps and create a smooth texture.
- Use full-fat whipped topping and cream cheese for richer, more decadent layers that hold their shape better.
- Chill each layer thoroughly to maintain distinct, clean-cut sections when serving the dessert.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (refrigeration time)
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg