Description
Pecan Pie Lasagna is a decadent no-bake dessert combining layers of a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese and whipped topping layer, and a rich pecan pie topping. This easy-to-make treat is chilled to set and sliced into bars, perfect for parties or a sweet indulgence without the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
Pecan Pie Topping
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a baking dish to form the crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill and firm up while preparing the other layers.
- Make the cream cheese layer: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue mixing until well combined. Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and fluffy. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust layer.
- Prepare the pecan pie topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, light corn syrup, and butter. Cook and stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before whisking in the lightly beaten eggs to prevent cooking the eggs. Stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour this pecan mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Chill to set: Place the assembled dessert into the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours, or until firm and set. Once chilled, slice into approximately 15 bars. Optionally, garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of color.
Notes
- Ensure the pecan pie topping mixture cools slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling.
- The dessert must chill for at least 4 hours for the layers to set properly.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and substitute with chopped non-nut crunchy toppings like toasted coconut if desired.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture and flavor.
- Fresh parsley is used here as an optional garnish for a festive touch; it can be omitted if preferred.
