This Halloween Lush is a showstopper that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat. Think creamy layers in spooky shades, no baking required, and only a handful of simple ingredients. It’s the perfect no-fuss dessert for fall parties or cozy Halloween nights.
Why You’ll Love This Halloween Lush Recipe
- It’s no bake and comes together in just a few simple steps
- Layers of creamy, gooey, and crunchy textures make every bite magical
- Festive colors and sprinkles add spooky charm without effort
- Kid-friendly and perfect for parties or potlucks
- Make-ahead friendly—assemble in the fridge and chill until ready to serve
Halloween Lush Recipe Ingredients & Substitutions
- 36 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (chocolate wafers or chocolate graham crackers work too)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted (use margarine if dairy-free)
- 2 boxes (3 oz each) orange gelatin (for that Halloween orange layer)
- 1/3 cup boiling water
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding & pie filling mix (cheesecake or butterscotch pudding are good swaps)
- 2½ cups cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (dairy-free cream cheese can be used)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 (8 oz) tubs whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- Green and purple food coloring (optional for coloring layers)
- Halloween sprinkles (any spooky candies or edible decorations)
How to Make Halloween Lush Recipe
- Crush cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or bag and rolling pin.
- Mix crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13 pan for the crust.
- Dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water; whisk until smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk together pudding mixes and milk, then stir in the gelatin until combined.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in 2 cups whipped topping and a few drops of purple food coloring for a spooky cheesecake layer. Spread over the crust.
- Pour the orange pudding-gelatin mixture over the cheesecake layer evenly.
- Mix the remaining whipped topping with a few drops of green food coloring and spread on top.
- Decorate with Halloween sprinkles.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours until set before serving.
Tips for Success
- Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Chill the lush long enough; layers need time to set firmly.
- Stir layers gently to avoid blending or muddying the colors.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slicing.
Variations of Halloween Lush Recipe
- Candy Corn Lush: Tint layers yellow, orange, and white to mimic candy corn.
- Gluten-Free Lush: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the cream cheese layer.
- Mini Parfaits: Layer in clear cups for individual servings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cold milk or festive hot apple cider.
- Add to a Halloween dessert table alongside cookies, cupcakes, and popcorn.
- Pair with caramel apples or spiced beverages for fall flair.
Storage & Chill Instructions
- Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen (tightly wrapped) for up to a month; thaw before serving.
- No reheating needed—this dessert is best enjoyed chilled.
Memories Made Around the Table
Making this Halloween Lush brings back memories of autumn baking with family—little hands helping to spread layers and sneak sprinkles. Now, I make it with my own family and the laughter and sticky fingers make every Halloween extra cozy.
FAQs
Can I make Halloween Lush Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for making a day ahead—just keep it chilled and decorate just before serving.
What colors can I use for the layers?
You can get creative—purple for cheesecake, orange for pudding, and green for the top whipped layer. Use food coloring to get the right shades.
Can I make Halloween Lush gluten free or dairy free?
Absolutely. Just swap in gluten-free cookies for the crust and dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping if needed.
Final Thoughts & Printable Recipe
Halloween Lush Recipe is a no-bake, layered dessert that looks enchanting and tastes divine. It’s simple to make, perfect for sharing, and a festive crowd-pleaser every time. Pin, save, or share this recipe and let the spooky fun begin!
Halloween Lush Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Spatula
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
Crust Layer
- 30 Oreo cookies crushed into fine crumbs
- 5 tbsp butter melted; or substitute margarine
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping such as Cool Whip
Pudding Layer
- 1 box pumpkin pudding mix or vanilla/chocolate flavor
- 2 cups milk any dairy or non-dairy milk
- 2 cups whipped topping for the final layer
- Halloween sprinkles or candy eyes for decoration
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the crust layer.
- Whisk together pumpkin pudding mix and milk in a bowl until thickened. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer to create the final layer.
- Decorate the top with Halloween sprinkles, candy eyes, or crushed cookies as desired.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow layers to set.