Description
This No-Bake Pecan Pie Lasagna is a creamy, layered dessert combining a graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese layers, and a luscious pecan pie pudding filling. Perfect for those seeking a decadent sweet treat without the oven, this dessert offers the classic flavors of pecan pie in a refreshing, chilled lasagna form.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 14 oz. whole graham crackers (about 24 crackers)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the cream cheese layer:
- 12 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz. Cool Whip
For the pecan pie filling:
- 3 (4 oz.) boxes vanilla instant pudding
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the top layer:
- 8 oz. Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup pecan halves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin for a coarser texture.
- Combine crust ingredients: Add 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 12 tablespoons melted unsalted butter to the crumbs. Pulse briefly until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the base layer: Press half of the crust mixture (about 2 3/4 cups) firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish coated with cooking spray. Place the dish in the freezer to set while preparing the next layer.
- Make the cream cheese layer: Using an electric mixer, beat 12 oz. of softened cream cheese with 1/3 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 oz. of Cool Whip until the mixture is well combined.
- Layer the cream cheese and crust: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture (approximately 1 1/2 cups) evenly over the chilled crust base. Top this layer with the remaining crust mixture (about 2 3/4 cups), pressing gently to create a firm layer.
- Set crust and cream cheese layers: Return the dish to the freezer and chill for 10 minutes to allow these layers to firm up.
- Prepare the pecan pie filling: Whisk together the 3 boxes of vanilla instant pudding mix with 4 cups of whole milk until the mixture thickens. Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans gently to retain texture.
- Assemble the pecan pie layers: Spread half of the pecan pie filling (about 2 3/4 cups) evenly over the crust and cream cheese layers. Then spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the pudding layer, followed by the rest of the pecan pie filling on top.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to enhance flavor melding and firmness.
- Finish and serve: Before serving, spread 8 oz. of Cool Whip over the top of the lasagna and garnish with 1/2 cup of pecan halves for a crunchy, decorative finish.
Notes
- For best results, allow the dessert to chill overnight to let the layers fully set and flavors meld.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a crunchier crust, pulse the graham crackers less to keep some texture.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Chilling the crust in the freezer before layering helps prevent sogginess.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to blend smoothly.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: No-Bake, Pecan Pie, Lasagna, Dessert, Cream Cheese, Pudding, Graham Cracker Crust, Cool Whip, Easy Dessert
