Discover how to make Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust, a layered dessert perfect for any occasion. Try this rich and easy recipe today!
Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both stunning and irresistible, the Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust is the perfect choice. This recipe layers the rich flavors of pecan pie with a smooth creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Whether for holidays, family dinners, or special occasions, this no-bake dessert will impress without stress.
Why You’ll Love It
This dessert brings together homemade creaminess and the crunch of traditional pecans, all layered in a simple graham cracker crust. It’s easy to assemble and requires no baking beyond the crust, making it a great make-ahead treat. The luscious caramel drizzle adds a decadent touch that appeals to nut lovers and sweet tooths alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers (substitute with gluten-free crackers for GF option)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (use coconut oil for dairy-free version)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (swap with coconut sugar powder for refined sugar-free)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream (can swap with coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (replace with walnuts or almonds as desired)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (see variations for sugar-free alternative)
- 1 cup chopped pecans for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until crumbs are moistened. Press firmly into the base of a 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 7-10 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth.
- Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a fluffy filling.
- Evenly spread half of this creamy mixture over the cooled crust. Sprinkle one cup of chopped pecans on top.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the pecans. Repeat layers with remaining cream mixture, pecans, and caramel sauce to finish.
- Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully before serving.
Expert Tips
To ensure the best texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. When folding in the whipped cream, be gentle to keep the filling light and airy. For extra shine, warm caramel sauce slightly before drizzling, and don’t skip the chilling step as it allows the layers to set perfectly.
Storage
Keep the pecan pie lasagna covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this dessert freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Variations
- Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and a dairy-free caramel sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Use natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup and prepare a sugar-free caramel sauce.
FAQ
- Can I prepare Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust ahead of time?
- Yes! This dessert tastes even better after chilling overnight, making it a great make-ahead option.
- Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
- Absolutely, walnuts or almonds work well and add a nice crunch.
- Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
- Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or nut-based crust alternatives.
- How do I know when the cream cheese mixture is smooth enough?
- Beat it until completely creamy with no lumps for the best texture in your lasagna.
- Does the exact Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust require baking?
- Only the crust is baked briefly; the rest is layered and chilled, making it easy and quick to prepare.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this luscious Creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust. Please leave your comments, rate your experience, and share this recipe with friends!