If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that celebrates the sweet, juicy joy of strawberries, look no further than Strawberry Lasagna. This layered no-bake treat is pure bliss: a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, a crown of strawberry-studded gelatin, and a pillowy topping of whipped cream. Every bite sings with color and flavor! Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just want to surprise your family with something special, Strawberry Lasagna always delivers a crowd-pleasing wow factor.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This is why I love Strawberry Lasagna: all the ingredients are easy to find, and each brings something distinct to the final bite. Every component plays a supporting role in taste, texture, or that gorgeous pop of color.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The classic base, lending a sweet and slightly crunchy foundation every layer can rest on.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness is added into the crust for that craveable dessert flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Gives richness and helps the crust hold together perfectly.
- Cream cheese (softened): Lends creamy tang and body to our “cheesecake” layer for a cloud-like middle.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves seamlessly into the cream cheese, keeping things smooth and decadent.
- Vanilla extract: One teaspoon lifts the whole dessert with sweet, floral warmth.
- Whipped topping or whipped cream: Turns both the cheesecake and the top layer light and fluffy—plus, it saves you from extra whipping.
- Strawberry gelatin: The secret to that gorgeous and refreshing strawberry layer—it holds the fruit together like a jewel topping.
- Boiling water: Dissolves the gelatin, ensuring a lump-free, glossy strawberry layer.
- Cold water: Quickly cools the gelatin so it reaches the perfect consistency without setting up too fast.
- Fresh strawberries (sliced): Their bright, juicy flavor runs through every sweet bite—nothing says summer quite like them.
- Extra whipped topping or whipped cream: A creamy finish that ties all the textures and flavors together beautifully.
- Extra strawberry slices and graham cracker crumbs (for garnish, optional): These add irresistible curb appeal and a hint of crunch!
How to Make Strawberry Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, a small scoop of sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand—you’ll know it’s ready when it clumps slightly between your fingers. Press it firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish, making sure it’s even and compact. Slide the dish into the fridge for about 10 minutes to set, which helps the crust hold up to the creamy and juicy layers to come. If you prefer a firmer base, you can pop it in a 350°F oven for 8 minutes, then let it cool before proceeding.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a generous splash of vanilla until it’s velvety and lump-free. This step is pure therapy—I could mix cream cheese forever! Next, gently fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream. Spoon this mixture over your chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. This layer is all about soft, tangy sweetness and will become your new favorite shortcut cheesecake.
Step 3: Create the Strawberry Gelatin Layer
Pour the strawberry gelatin into a separate bowl and whisk in the boiling water until it’s completely dissolved and translucent. Now, add the cold water, which cools the mixture and helps it set to the ideal spoonable consistency. Toss your sliced strawberries into the slightly thickened (but not fully set) gelatin for an extra burst of berry in every bite. Gently spoon this layer over the cheesecake mixture, spreading it evenly but carefully—this is where Strawberry Lasagna gets its signature look.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream and Chill
Give the dish its final flourish with a blanket of remaining whipped topping or whipped cream. Smooth it over the strawberry layer, going all the way to the edges for maximum creamy coverage. For that Instagramworthy finish, scatter extra slices of strawberries and a sprinkle of graham crumbs on top. Refrigerate your assembled Strawberry Lasagna for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you have the time). This wait is the hardest part, but it means every layer will hold its shape and slice up beautifully!
How to Serve Strawberry Lasagna

Garnishes
The fun doesn’t end after layering! When it’s time to serve Strawberry Lasagna, don’t hold back on the garnishes: try fanning out fresh strawberry slices, another dusting of graham cracker crumbs, maybe even a sprig of mint for color contrast. Not only do these extras make it gorgeous, but they also give that inviting homemade vibe.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines as a summertime centerpiece but pairs beautifully with lighter fare. Serve it after a barbecue, or alongside lemonade, iced tea, or a bubbly mimosa for brunch. If you want to balance its sweetness, offer fresh berries or a fruit salad on the side—the flavors will play perfectly together without competing.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Spoon Strawberry Lasagna into individual mason jars for easy-to-grab picnic treats, or layer it in clear parfait glasses for a party-worthy look. For a dramatic finish at the table, use a big clear trifle dish so everyone can see those stripes of goodness. No matter how you serve it, there’s just something joyful about seeing all those layers stacked up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (it’s rare in my house!), cover your Strawberry Lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or a fitted lid and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within three days, as the layers start to soften and the strawberries release more juice over time. But honestly, a second-day slice is just as dreamy, sometimes even better!
Freezing
Freezing Strawberry Lasagna is possible, though the texture can change slightly—especially the gelatin and whipped layers. If you decide to freeze it, wrap the dish tightly in plastic and again in foil. Thaw it gently in the fridge for several hours before serving to preserve as much of the creamy texture as possible.
Reheating
There’s no reheating required for this dessert! Simply serve straight from the fridge. If you make it ahead, give it a fresh garnish just before serving to revive its vibrant look and taste. If the dessert has been frozen, allow it to warm up for 15-20 minutes after thawing so it slices easily.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure your frozen strawberries are fully thawed and well-drained before adding them to the gelatin layer. This helps avoid extra liquid, ensuring your Strawberry Lasagna stays beautifully layered and not watery.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham crackers, try Nilla wafers or shortbread cookies blended into crumbs. Either one will give you a sweet, sturdy base—slightly different, but still delicious!
How far ahead can I make Strawberry Lasagna?
You can assemble Strawberry Lasagna up to a day in advance and let it chill overnight. In fact, the flavors mingle and deepen, giving you an even more satisfying dessert experience the next day.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite plant-based cream cheese and coconut whipped topping for dairy-free Strawberry Lasagna. Most strawberry gelatin is already dairy-free, so just check your ingredient labels to be sure.
Is there a way to make a lighter version?
For a lighter take, use reduced-fat cream cheese, a sugar substitute, and light whipped topping. The layers will still taste decadent but with fewer calories per slice!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Strawberry Lasagna enough—it’s a dessert where every layer brings its own joy, from the buttery crunch to the cloudlike cream and vibrant berry finish. If you’re ready to win hearts at your next gathering or want to treat yourself to something truly special, give this recipe a try. Here’s to sweet moments and even sweeter slices!
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Strawberry Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a Strawberry Lasagna, a no-bake layered dessert featuring a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, fresh strawberry filling, and whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the cheesecake layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
For the strawberry layer:
- 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
For the topping:
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping or whipped cream
- extra strawberry slices and graham cracker crumbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
- For the cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping. Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled crust.
- For the strawberry layer: In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in cold water and refrigerate for about 30–45 minutes until slightly thickened but not fully set. Fold in the sliced strawberries and gently spoon the mixture over the cheesecake layer.
- For the topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the strawberry layer and smooth the top. Garnish with extra strawberries and graham crumbs if desired. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a firmer base, bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes and cool before layering.
- Frozen strawberries may be used if thawed and well-drained.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (unless baking crust)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg