If you’re searching for a true showstopper, look no further than Pecan Pie Lasagna! This brilliant, crowd-pleasing dessert turns all the irresistible flavors of pecan pie into a cool, creamy layered treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. The crunchy graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, luscious pudding, and ooey-gooey brown sugar pecan topping unite in each forkful, delivering classic Southern comfort in a brand-new way. Perfect for holiday tables, potlucks, or anytime a serious sweet tooth calls, Pecan Pie Lasagna is guaranteed to wow both kids and adults—and have everyone begging for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for Pecan Pie Lasagna couldn’t be simpler, and every component plays a delicious role. From the nutty, buttery base to the sweet, creamy layers and signature pecan praline finish, each bite is a perfect balance of taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Graham cracker crumbs: The base of your lasagna, these provide a crunchy, toasty foundation for the creamy layers above.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Blends with the graham crumbs, ensuring a rich, sturdy crust that holds together beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened: This adds silky body and a slight tang, which balances all the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves seamlessly into the cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings aromatic warmth and depth to every layer.
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Folded into the cream cheese layer, it adds lightness and keeps things delightfully airy.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Simple to use and provides that dreamy, custardy middle layer—no cooking required!
- Cold milk: Whisks into the pudding mix and is essential for setting up a perfectly thick texture.
- Pecan halves: Gorgeous on top, adding crunch and rich, nutty flavor that makes this dessert so special.
- Brown sugar: Caramelizes into a sticky, decadent sauce for the pecan topping.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and helps make the pecan layer glossy and spoonable.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons make the pecan topping truly melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to balance the sweet and bring out the complex flavors in every layer.
- Additional whipped topping and chopped pecans: The perfect final flourish before serving your masterpiece!
How to Make Pecan Pie Lasagna
Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with your melted butter, stirring until every bit is coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure to create an even layer. Pop it in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, then let it cool completely—this step ensures your crust holds up beautifully under all those decadent layers!
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
Once the crust has cooled, it’s time for the signature creamy goodness. Beat your softened cream cheese until it’s totally smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. The goal is a lusciously creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy filling—no lumps in sight! Gently fold in one cup of whipped topping to lighten things up, then spread this dreamy layer over your cooled crust.
Step 3: Mix the Pudding Layer
Grab a clean bowl and add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk until the mixture thickens up (about 2 minutes), then spread this custardy layer right over the cream cheese. It’s already starting to look (and smell) amazing! Pop the dish in the fridge to chill while you make the pecan topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine the pecan halves, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly—this melts together into a beautiful, bubbling, sticky mixture after 3 to 4 minutes. Once it’s bubbling and a bit thick, take it off the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes (otherwise, you’ll melt the layers below!). Pour the pecan topping evenly over the chilled pudding layer, spreading gently for full coverage.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Patience is key—let your Pecan Pie Lasagna set in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you want the most picture-perfect slices. Just before serving, top with more whipped topping and a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans for an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Lasagna
Garnishes
Serving this dessert is all about making it feel as festive and welcoming as it tastes! Add plenty of pillowy whipped topping and a tumble of chopped toasted pecans on top. If you want to go gourmet, drizzle with a little caramel sauce for glossy, extra-delicious drama.
Side Dishes
Since Pecan Pie Lasagna is undeniably rich, a simple side can help balance the party. Serve each slice alongside a dish of fresh berries or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. These options bring a pop of fresh flavor and keep the whole dessert course light and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Try cutting your lasagna into individual squares and plating each on a decorative dessert dish. For parties, spoon it into mini mason jars or clear glasses to showcase those beautiful layers. No matter how you serve it, Pecan Pie Lasagna always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover your Pecan Pie Lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fabulous for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for next-day indulgence.
Freezing
Pecan Pie Lasagna freezes surprisingly well! Cut it into squares, wrap each piece tightly, and stash them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw slices overnight in the fridge whenever you need a sweet treat ready to go.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold! If the topping has firmed up too much in the fridge, just let your slice sit at room temperature for ten minutes for the perfect creamy texture before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works beautifully in place of whipped topping. Just be sure to whip it to stiff peaks for that fluffy, stable texture throughout your Pecan Pie Lasagna.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
For picture-perfect squares, chill your dessert overnight so it sets firmly. Wipe your knife between each cut for super clean edges—pro tip: a thin, sharp knife works best!
Can I add chocolate chips or another mix-in?
Sure! Sprinkling in mini chocolate chips or a handful of toffee bits between layers puts a fun, creative spin on classic Pecan Pie Lasagna. Just be mindful not to overload the dish so the creamy texture shines through.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
You can easily swap the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free variety and double-check that your pudding mix is gluten-free as well. All the indulgence, none of the worry!
Does this lasagna need to be served chilled?
Yes, serving it chilled is key! The layers hold together best and offer that lovely cool contrast to the rich pecan topping. Plus, this makes it a fabulous make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Lasagna is that rare dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With every luscious layer and bite of nutty goodness, it’s sure to become a family tradition in your kitchen too. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite sweet for holidays, potlucks, and every celebration in between!
Print
Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent layers of this Pecan Pie Lasagna, a heavenly dessert that combines the flavors of pecan pie with a creamy, no-bake twist. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Vanilla Pudding:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Pinch of salt
Additional Garnish:
- Additional whipped topping
- Chopped pecans
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: Preheat the oven and prepare the crust.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Prepare the creamy layer.
- Vanilla Pudding: Make and layer the pudding.
- Pecan Topping: Cook and pour over the pudding layer.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours, then garnish before serving.
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, press into a baking dish, and bake.
Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then fold in whipped topping and spread over the crust.
Whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened, spread over the cream cheese layer, and chill.
Cook pecans, sugar, cream, butter, and salt, then cool slightly and pour over the pudding.
Notes
- For a sturdier crust, add a tablespoon of granulated sugar to the graham mixture before baking.
- You can make this dessert a day in advance—it sets better overnight.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (with baked crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
