Pecan Pie Lasagna That Makes Holidays Special
Discover the ultimate dessert with this delicious Pecan Pie Lasagna! A no-bake treat with creamy layers and crunchy pecans that will wow your guests.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
chilling time 3 hours hrs 40 minutes mins
Total Time 4 hours hrs
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Servings
Calories 400 kcal
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers – This will form the crunchy sweet base of the lasagna. If you prefer, you can substitute with crushed shortbread or vanilla wafers for a different twist.
- ¼ cup of melted butter – contributes richness and acts as a binder for the crust.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Just a hint of sweetness to complement the graham crackers.
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened – This creates a smooth, creamy layer that forms the heart of the lasagna. Ensure it’s softened to facilitate easy mixing.
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and helps to balance out the richness of the cream cheese.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is the secret to achieving that luscious velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle vanilla note that enriches the filling’s flavor.
For the Pecan Layer:
- 2 cups pecans roughly chopped – Pecans are the star of this dessert! Their natural sweetness and crunch make them the perfect pairing with the creamy filling.
- ¾ cup brown sugar – This helps bring out the caramelized flavor of the pecans.
- ¼ cup maple syrup – Adds a rich deep sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Just a little bit of butter for extra richness in the pecan layer.
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream optional – For an extra layer of indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This provides a smooth, creamy counterpoint to the crunchy, nutty layers.
Optional Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons bourbon – If you want to add a little festive kick a splash of bourbon can enhance the flavor profile of the pecans.
- Chocolate chips optional – For chocolate lovers, a handful of chocolate chips sprinkled over the layers adds an extra decadent touch.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, using your fingers or the back of a spoon to compact it. The crust should form a nice, firm base for your lasagna.
Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the crust to set while you move on to the next layer.
Make the Creamy Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and soft. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this.
Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the filling becomes light, fluffy, and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out so that it covers the entire surface.
Prepare the Pecan Layer:
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Mix until the pecans are thoroughly coated and the sugar begins melting.
Let the pecans cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sugar starting to caramelize slightly, giving the pecans a rich, glossy texture.
Once complete, remove from heat and let the mixture cool briefly before spooning it onto the cream cheese layer.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Carefully layer the cooled pecan mixture on top of the cream cheese, distributing it evenly. The pecans will create a crunchy, flavorful layer that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
If you prefer, you can repeat the layering process by adding more cream cheese mixture and pecans. Just make sure each layer is smooth and evenly spread.
Chill and Set:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even overnight. Chilling allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve, and it lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, carefully cut the lasagna into squares or rectangles. For an extra touch, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Dig in and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
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Calories: 400
-
Fat: 30g
-
Saturated Fat: 10g
-
Trans Fat: 0g
-
Cholesterol: 40mg
-
Sodium: 120mg
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Carbohydrates: 35g
-
Dietary Fiber: 2g
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Sugars: 24g
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Protein: 4g
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Vitamin A: 8%
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Vitamin C: 1%
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Calcium: 6%
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Iron: 6%
(approximate, based on portion size)
Keyword Lasagna, Dessert, No-Bake, Pecan Pie