Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a truly irresistible sweet treat that’s as stunning as it is easy, you’ve got to try the Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert. This layered delight brings together the buttery crunch of a graham cracker crust, the luscious tang of a cream cheese layer, and the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie filling—all without turning on your oven. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion, combining classic flavors into a wonderfully creamy, no-fuss masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.

Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but each plays a key role in building the magic of this dessert. From the crisp crust to the creamy middle and gooey pecan topping, every component contributes essential flavor, texture, and that crowd-pleasing look.

  • Graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy foundation that offers buttery, slightly sweet crispness for the crust.
  • Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together when mixed with melted butter.
  • Unsalted butter: Melted to marry the crust ingredients and provide richness throughout.
  • Cream cheese: Creates a smooth and tangy middle layer that balances the sweetness perfectly.
  • Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer effortlessly without any graininess.
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor, making every layer feel warm and comforting.
  • Whipped topping (Cool Whip): Lightens the cream cheese layer for a fluffy, dreamy texture.
  • Brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes needed for that signature pecan pie flavor.
  • Light corn syrup: Adds sticky sweetness and gloss to the pecan filling.
  • Eggs: Helps set the pecan layer with a delicate firmness.
  • Chopped pecans: Gives that essential crunch and nutty richness.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to accentuate sweetness and balance flavors flawlessly.

How to Make Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert

Step 1: Create the Perfect Crust

Start by combining graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pop it in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes to set up nicely—this chill helps keep your layers neat and clean when serving.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer

Next, soften your cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Beat it well, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to lighten the mix, creating an airy, fluffy texture. Spread this beautiful creamy layer evenly over the chilled crust. This tangy yet sweet middle layer is where the dreaminess really takes hold.

Step 3: Cook the Classic Pecan Filling

Now for the star—the pecan filling. Combine brown sugar, light corn syrup, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it bubble and meld together until glossy and smooth. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in beaten eggs to temper them without scrambling. Stir in chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let this luscious mixture cool slightly before layering—this stops it from melting your cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill Your No-Bake Masterpiece

Pour the cooled pecan mixture carefully over the cream cheese layer. Smooth it evenly, then cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This wait lets all the flavors meld beautifully and allows the dessert to set perfectly, giving you those clean, satisfying slices everyone will rave about.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert

Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Enhance your Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream. A light drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans on top adds that extra wow factor and makes every bite as inviting as possible.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own, but if you want to round out your dessert table, consider pairing it with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad. A warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk perfectly complements the rich, sweet layers, balancing your palate with contrasting temperatures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, serve your Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert in individual clear glass cups or parfait dishes so each layer can be admired in all its glory. You can also add a festive touch by sprinkling edible gold leaf or dusting with cinnamon for holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pecan Pie Lasagna stays great refrigerated for up to 4 days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and keep the pecan topping crisp and fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze this dessert, but for best texture, freeze before adding the pecan pie topping. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and thaw overnight in the fridge before adding your pecan layer and serving. Freezing fully assembled layers can sometimes cause separation or sogginess.

Reheating

This no-bake dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer softer slices, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving for a smoother cut and richer mouthfeel.

FAQs

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can fold that into the cream cheese layer. Just make sure it’s whipped to soft peaks for the best texture.

Is it necessary to chill the crust before adding layers?

Yes, chilling the crust helps it set firmly so the layers stay neat and you get clean slices without the crust crumbling.

Can I substitute pecans with walnuts or another nut?

Of course! Walnuts or even toasted almonds work well if you want to switch up the flavor or if pecans aren’t your favorite.

How long does it take to set properly in the fridge?

It needs at least 4 hours to set, but overnight chilling is recommended for the best texture and flavor melding.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

Not as is, since the crust uses graham cracker crumbs which typically contain gluten. However, you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to whip up this Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert; it’s truly one of those recipes that steals the show with minimal effort. From the first buttery bite through the creamy layers to the nutty, caramel-rich topping, every forkful is a hug on a plate. Give it a try at your next gathering or when you just need something sweet and special—it’s destined to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!

Print

Pecan Pie Lasagna – A No-Bake Dream Dessert Recipe

Pecan Pie Lasagna is a decadent no-bake dessert combining a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla-sweetened cream cheese layer, and a rich, gooey pecan topping. Perfectly layered and chilled, this dessert offers the classic flavors of pecan pie with an easy lasagna twist ideal for warm weather or holiday tables.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

For the Pecan Filling Layer:

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for 10–15 minutes, allowing it to set and hold together.
  2. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to keep the mixture light and fluffy. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust layer.
  3. Cook the Pecan Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, light corn syrup, and butter. Stir and cook until the mixture begins to bubble. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in the lightly beaten eggs to prevent curdling. Stir in chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to room temperature.
  4. Layer and Chill: Pour the cooled pecan filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out gently to cover the entire dessert. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, so the layers can set properly and meld flavors.
  5. Serve: Before serving, slice the pecan pie lasagna with a clean, warm knife for tidy portions. Optionally, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • Chill the crust before adding the layers to ensure clean, well-defined slices.
  • Allow the pecan filling to cool completely before layering to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.
  • Best served cold, but letting it sit out for 10–15 minutes before slicing can make serving easier.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of recipe)
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: pecan pie lasagna, no-bake dessert, pecan dessert, layered dessert, graham cracker crust, cream cheese dessert

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

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

Recipe rating