Decadent no-bake Pecan Pie Lasagna with creamy cheesecake, caramel, and pecans — a perfect layered dessert for holidays and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pecan Pie Lasagna is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. There’s no baking required, making it perfect for busy holiday preparations. The combination of buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake filling, sweet caramel, and toasted pecans creates an irresistible balance of creamy, crunchy, and gooey textures. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dessert that actually gets better as it chills.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Extra caramel sauce and pecans for garnish
Directions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this mixture over the caramel.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pecan layer.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining pecan mixture.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Garnish with extra caramel sauce and pecans before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Calories: 430 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nut-free option: Substitute pecans with toasted coconut or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Different crust: Use crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.
- Chocolate twist: Drizzle chocolate sauce along with caramel for a richer flavor.
- Spiced flavor: Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the pecan mixture for an autumnal twist.
- Mini servings: Assemble the lasagna in small jars or cups for individual desserts.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pecan pie lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it is a no-bake dessert, it does not require reheating. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made a day in advance, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Can I freeze pecan pie lasagna?
Absolutely. Freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 1 month and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
Homemade whipped cream stabilized with a little gelatin or powdered sugar works well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce saves time and works perfectly.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Ensure the crust is well-pressed and refrigerate it briefly before adding the cream cheese layer.
Can I add chocolate chips to the layers?
Definitely. Mini chocolate chips add a wonderful crunch and extra sweetness.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is rich and sweet, balanced by the tanginess of the cream cheese.
What other nuts can I use?
Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes if you don’t have pecans.
How should I garnish it for presentation?
Drizzle extra caramel and sprinkle whole or chopped pecans on top for a beautiful finish.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Lasagna is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With its luxurious layers of cheesecake, caramel, and crunchy pecans, it’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you need an unforgettable sweet treat, this dessert will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Pecan Pie Lasagna
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent no-bake Pecan Pie Lasagna with creamy cheesecake, caramel, and pecans — a perfect layered dessert for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup melted butter
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 cup caramel sauce
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Extra caramel sauce and pecans for garnish
Instructions
Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press into a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold in 1 cup whipped topping.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cream layer.
Mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon; sprinkle half over the caramel.
Spread the remaining whipped topping on top.
Drizzle with the remaining caramel sauce and sprinkle with remaining pecan mixture.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish with extra caramel sauce and pecans before serving.
Notes
- For an extra crunch, toast the pecans before mixing.
- Use a store-bought caramel or make your own for a richer flavor.
- This dessert can be made 1-2 days in advance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American