Description
Decadent Pecan Pie Lasagna is a luscious layered dessert combining a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy whipped cream and cream cheese layer, silky vanilla pudding, and a rich pecan topping infused with brown sugar and cinnamon. This no-bake dessert is chilled to perfection, making it an ideal treat for holidays and special occasions with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
Pecan Topping
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
- Additional whipped cream
- Pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8 minutes to set the crust, then allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain a light texture. Spread this evenly over the cooled graham crust and refrigerate to chill.
- Prepare and spread vanilla pudding: In another bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with whole milk for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer. Place back in the refrigerator and chill for 10 minutes to set.
- Cook the pecan topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream together. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and the toasted pecans. Allow it to cool slightly before evenly pouring it over the pudding layer.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the entire assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to set layers firmly and allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, add optional additional whipped cream and decorate with pecan halves for an elegant presentation and extra texture.
Notes
- Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, to enhance their nutty flavor.
- For convenience, use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream.
- Ensure each layer is properly chilled before adding the next to maintain distinct layers in the dessert.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American