If you have a sweet tooth and adore rich desserts that offer a symphony of textures and flavors, this Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe is a dream come true. Layers of buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cream cheese filling, gooey pecan pie goodness, and a fluffy whipped topping make it an irresistible treat to share. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving something decadent for yourself, this dessert brings all the classic comforts of pecan pie in a refreshingly fun, layered twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and sweet in this dish. Each component plays an essential role in layering flavors and textures that make this dessert stand out.
- Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): Provides a slightly sweet and crunchy base that’s the perfect foundation.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup): Adds richness and binds the crust and pecan pie layer beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): Creates a smooth, tangy layer that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup + 1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer and whipped topping without graininess.
- Vanilla extract (3 tsp): Enhances flavors throughout every layer.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup + 1 cup): Whipped into peaks for a light, airy texture that complements denser layers.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Brings deep caramel-like sweetness to the pecan pie filling.
- Large eggs, beaten (2): Helps thicken the pecan pie layer for that classic consistency.
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Ensures a smooth, glossy pecan pie filling that holds its shape.
- Chopped pecans (1 1/2 cups + 1/2 cup): Adds signature nutty crunch both inside and on top.
- Caramel sauce (optional): For an extra decadent drizzle that takes this dessert over the top.
How to Make Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even layer that will serve as the crisp, buttery base of your lasagna. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
Whip the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it’s luxuriously smooth. In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This step ensures a fluffy, creamy layer that will perfectly balance the richness ahead. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter then stir in the brown sugar, beaten eggs, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens noticeably, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat, fold in the chopped pecans, and spread this warm pecan pie filling over the cream cheese layer. This luscious layer brings the classic pecan pie flavor to the middle of your dessert.
Step 4: Whipped Topping Layer
Whip another cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the fluffy whipped topping gently over the pecan pie layer, creating a light and creamy finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans across the top, and if you like, drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time allows all the layers to meld together into the perfect sliceable dessert.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped pecans add a delightful crunch on top, but feel free to sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. A drizzle of caramel or even a dollop of lightly whipped cream elevates the presentation and invites people to dig right in.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple cup of strong black coffee. Light, refreshing fruit such as sliced oranges or berries on the side can also provide nice contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe in clear glass dishes lets everyone admire its beautiful layers. For a crowd, cut into bars and serve on rustic wooden boards garnished with pecans and caramel drizzle for an inviting dessert table centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the texture of each layer and maintains the dessert’s fresh flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the Pecan Pie Lasagna for up to 2 months. Wrap the dish with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain that perfect texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you want to soften it just slightly, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! To make the Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe gluten-free, simply substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust.
How far in advance can I prepare this dish?
You can assemble the entire lasagna a day in advance, which makes it perfect for entertaining or holiday planning. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It has a lovely sweetness that balances well with the tangy cream cheese layer and nutty pecans. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugars slightly without losing the core flavor.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade?
Absolutely! While homemade whipped cream adds fresh creaminess, store-bought whipped topping works fine and saves time.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup, which will add a nice flavor twist to your pecan pie layer.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe is a celebration of everything we love about pecan pie in a playful, luscious new form. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your new favorite dessert to impress family and friends with every time!
Print
Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pecan Pie Lasagna is a decadent layered dessert combining a graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, a rich pecan pie filling, and a fluffy whipped topping garnished with chopped pecans and optional caramel drizzle. Perfectly chilled and served in squares, it’s an irresistible treat that marries creamy textures with the crunch and flavor of pecans.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Pecan Pie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Whipped Topping Layer
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Caramel sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set the crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fully smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Spread this evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.
- Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, beaten eggs, light corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Continue cooking and stirring for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped pecans. Spread this pecan pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Whipped Topping Layer: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping over the pecan pie layer smoothly.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans evenly on top and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, slice the lasagna into squares and serve cold for a creamy, nutty dessert experience.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cream cheese layer.
- Whip heavy cream in a cold bowl with cold beaters for best stiff peaks.
- The pecan pie layer should be cooked carefully to avoid scrambling the eggs — stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as thickened.
- This dessert tastes best after chilling overnight, allowing all the layers to set properly.
- Use light corn syrup in the pecan pie layer for the classic texture and sweetness.
- Caramel sauce is optional but adds an extra depth of sweetness and richness.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
