Smooth Pumpkin Icebox Treat Recipe

Sweet Fall Magic: Whip Up a Pumpkin Icebox Treat Recipe

The creamy layers of this pumpkin delight icebox treat beckon with their irresistible autumn charm.

Cool, silky textures mingle with warm spices in each delectable bite.

Seasonal ingredients dance together, creating a dessert that whispers comfort and indulgence.

No baking required means simple preparation meets maximum flavor.

Soft graham cracker crust cradles a luscious pumpkin pudding layer that melts on your tongue.

Whipped cream tops this dreamy confection with cloud-like grace.

You’ll savor every spoonful of this make-ahead dessert that turns ordinary moments into sweet celebrations.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal

Servings: 9

Ingredients for Pumpkin Icebox Treat

For Creamy Base:
  • Pumpkin Purée: Brings rich autumn flavor and smooth texture to the dessert, choose 100% pure pumpkin for best results.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds luxurious creaminess and tangy depth, select full-fat variety for optimal smoothness.
  • Pudding Mix: Provides structure and sweetness, instant vanilla works best for quick preparation.
  • Powdered Sugar: Ensures silky consistency and balanced sweetness, sift to prevent lumps.
  • Dulce De Leche: Introduces caramel notes and extra richness, opt for high-quality brands.
For Layering Components:
  • Honey Graham Splitters: Creates delightful texture and base layers, select crisp crackers that break easily.
  • Cool Whip: Delivers light, airy texture and creamy finish, choose full-fat version for best results.
For Finishing Touch:
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: Elevates dessert with warm seasonal aroma, freshly ground spice blend preferred for intense flavor.

Icebox Treat Tools for Layered Pumpkin Fun

  • Electric mixer: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly and creating creamy texture.
  • 9×13 baking dish: Perfect for layering and setting the dessert.
  • Mixing bowl: Needed for combining pumpkin mixture ingredients.
  • Spatula: Great for folding in Cool Whip and spreading layers evenly.
  • Measuring cups: Helps accurately portion ingredients.
  • Knife: Useful for breaking graham crackers to fit dish.
  • Spoon: Helps sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top.

How to Build a Chilled Pumpkin Dessert Dream

  • Creamy Pumpkin Base

Blend pumpkin purée, pudding mix, powdered sugar, cream cheese, and dulce de leche until silky smooth in a mixing bowl.

  • Whipped Cloud Layer

Gently incorporate whipped topping into the pumpkin mixture, creating a light and airy texture.

  • Graham Cracker Foundation

Create alternating layers of graham crackers and pumpkin cream in a baking dish, starting with a thin cream base.

  • Layering Magic

Build multiple delicate layers, carefully placing graham crackers between each creamy pumpkin spread.

  • Dreamy Topping

Cover the final layer with remaining whipped topping and dust with a hint of pumpkin pie spice for an elegant finish.

  • Chilling Transformation

Let the dessert rest at room temperature for several hours, allowing graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld together, creating a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth treat.

Spice Swaps and Pumpkin Icebox Flavors to Try

  • Chilling Secrets: Mastering the Pumpkin Delight Icebox Treat
  • Texture Perfection: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps and create a silky smooth filling.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert a day in advance for deeper flavor fusion and perfectly softened graham crackers.
  • Spice Swap Excitement: Experiment with different spice blends like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chai spice to personalize your dessert.
  • Topping Creativity: Drizzle caramel sauce, sprinkle chopped pecans, or add a light dusting of chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace cream cheese and Cool Whip with coconut cream and vegan whipped topping for a delightful plant-based version.

Chill, Slice, and Serve Your Pumpkin Icebox

  • Cozy Family Dinner Finale: Serve this delightful pumpkin treat as the perfect end to a hearty family meal, letting everyone savor the creamy, spiced layers after a comforting dinner.
  • Holiday Gathering Showstopper: Bring this icebox dessert to potlucks or holiday parties, where its elegant layers and rich pumpkin flavor will impress guests and become an instant conversation starter.
  • Afternoon Coffee Companion: Pair a slice of this dessert with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea, creating a delectable mid-afternoon treat that combines sweet and spicy notes perfectly.
  • Make-Ahead Dessert Champion: Prepare this dessert a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the graham crackers to soften, making it an effortless and stress-free dessert option for busy hosts.

Storing Icebox Treats for Next-Day Indulgence

  • Refrigerator Storage Magic: Keep the icebox treat covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Consume within 3-5 days for optimal taste and texture.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare this dessert one day before serving, allowing flavors to meld and graham crackers to soften perfectly. The extra resting time enhances the overall deliciousness.
  • Freezing Friendly Option: Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, ensuring the creamy texture remains intact.
  • Portion Perfect Trick: Cut individual servings and store in sealed containers for easy grab-and-go dessert moments. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain the treat's beautiful presentation.
Print
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Smooth Pumpkin Icebox Treat Recipe

Smooth Pumpkin Icebox Treat Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Classic pumpkin delight icebox treat sings with creamy layers of spiced pumpkin and whipped cream. Cool graham cracker crust provides delicious contrast to smooth, chilled filling perfect for autumn gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 sleeves honey graham splitters
  • 15 oz (425 g) pure pumpkin puree
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups homemade whipped cream or Cool Whip
  • 1 package (3.4 oz/96 g) vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ cup dulce de leche
  • Pumpkin pie spice, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Mixture Creation: Whip cream cheese, pumpkin purée, pudding mix, powdered sugar, and dulce de leche into a velvety smooth fusion using an electric mixer until completely incorporated and free of lumps.
  2. Layer Foundation: Gently fold Cool Whip into the pumpkin cream mixture, creating a light and airy texture, then spread a thin initial layer across the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
  3. First Graham Layer: Systematically cover the cream base with graham crackers, breaking pieces as needed to ensure complete and uniform coverage across the entire surface.
  4. Cream Distribution: Carefully spread half of the remaining pumpkin cream over the graham cracker layer, ensuring an even and consistent distribution.
  5. Secondary Graham Layer: Construct a second complete layer of graham crackers atop the cream, maintaining full dish coverage and structural integrity.
  6. Final Cream Application: Pour the remaining pumpkin cream mixture over the second graham layer, completely enveloping the crackers with a smooth and generous coating.
  7. Whipped Topping: Delicately spread the remaining Cool Whip across the entire surface, creating an elegant and uniform white canvas.
  8. Flavor Accent: Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice over the top, adding a sophisticated aromatic and visual dimension to the dessert.
  9. Chilling Process: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for a minimum of 4 hours, allowing graham crackers to absorb the creamy essence and soften into a delectable, easily servable treat.

Notes

  • Soften Cream Cheese First: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.
  • Graham Cracker Precision: Break crackers carefully to create a complete, even layer without gaps for optimal texture and coverage.
  • Chill for Best Results: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and graham crackers to soften perfectly.
  • Spice Customization: Adjust pumpkin pie spice to taste or create a homemade blend for a more personalized flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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