Pecan Pie Lasagna

Imagine the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie transformed into layers of creamy, indulgent bliss. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with Pecan Pie Lasagna – a show-stopping no-bake dessert that captures all the beloved flavors of traditional pecan pie in a modern, layered masterpiece. Each spoonful delivers the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and caramel-infused goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. You’ll learn how to create this impressive dessert with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, perfect for your next holiday gathering or special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pecan Pie Lasagna is bound to become your new favorite dessert for so many reasons. First, it’s completely no-bake, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons when oven space is at a premium. The contrasting textures are simply divine – from the buttery graham cracker crust to the velvety cream cheese layer, the silky butterscotch pudding, and the crunchy candied pecans on top.

The flavor profile is nothing short of spectacular, combining the rich caramel notes of butterscotch with toasted pecans and a hint of cinnamon that evokes all the comfort of traditional pecan pie. What’s more, this dessert can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while saving you precious time on the day of your gathering.

Perhaps best of all, this pecan pie dessert lasagna consistently impresses guests with its elegant presentation despite requiring minimal effort. It serves a crowd, making it perfect for holiday potlucks, Thanksgiving dinner, or any celebration where you need a standout dessert that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2½ cups (300g) graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

For the Pudding Layer:

• 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant butterscotch pudding mix
• 3 cups (720ml) cold milk

For the Topping:

• 2 cups (200g) chopped pecans
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Caramel sauce for drizzling

The star ingredients in this pecan pie lasagna are the butterscotch pudding, which provides that classic caramel flavor found in pecan pies, and the candied pecans that add the essential nutty crunch. Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture in this layered dessert.

Pro Tips

Toast Your Pecans First
For maximum flavor, toast your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes before making the candied topping. This simple step enhances their natural oils and creates a deeper, more aromatic nut flavor that transforms your pecan pie lasagna from good to absolutely irresistible.

Perfect Your Whipped Cream
For the creamiest, most stable layers, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15 minutes before whipping the heavy cream. This ensures your cream whips up perfectly and holds its shape between the layers. For extra stability, you can add 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin (bloomed in 1 tablespoon of cold water) to your whipped cream.

Allow Proper Setting Time
While it’s tempting to dive right in, this pecan pie lasagna needs at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) in the refrigerator to properly set. This resting period allows the graham cracker base to soften slightly and the flavors to meld together, creating that perfect dessert lasagna texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the next layers.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Create the Pudding Layer
In another bowl, whisk together the butterscotch pudding mixes and cold milk for 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Pour this over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the dish to the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the pudding layer to set slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Candied Pecans
While the layers are chilling, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and brown sugar, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes until the pecans are coated and the sugar has caramelized. Spread on parchment paper to cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread this layer over the set pudding. Sprinkle the cooled candied pecans evenly across the top and drizzle with caramel sauce. Refrigerate your pecan pie lasagna for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Pecan Pie Lasagna
For chocolate lovers, transform this into a chocolate pecan pie lasagna by substituting chocolate pudding for the butterscotch pudding. Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer and drizzle with both caramel and chocolate sauce before serving. The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a turtle-inspired flavor that’s absolutely divine.

Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie Lasagna
Add a sophisticated twist by incorporating 1 tablespoon of bourbon and 2 tablespoons of real maple syrup into the cream cheese layer. You can also add ½ teaspoon of maple extract to the whipped topping and use maple-glazed pecans instead of the standard candied ones. This adult version of pecan pie lasagna is perfect for dinner parties and special celebrations.

Gluten-Free Option
For those with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or cookies. The rest of the ingredients in this layered pecan pie dessert are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation that doesn’t sacrifice any of the flavor or texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Pecan Pie Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after the first 24 hours, making this an excellent make-ahead dessert. For the best texture, avoid freezing this dessert, as the pudding and cream layers may separate upon thawing.

For an elegant presentation, serve individual portions in clear dessert glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. Top each serving with a whole pecan and a fresh drizzle of warm caramel sauce just before serving.

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness. For a truly indulgent experience, serve alongside a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a glass of dessert wine such as Sauternes or Tawny Port, which complement the caramel and nut flavors in this pecan pie lasagna perfectly.

FAQs

Can I make Pecan Pie Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this dessert benefits from being made 1-2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.

Can I use a different type of pudding?
Yes, while butterscotch pudding gives the most authentic pecan pie flavor, you can substitute with vanilla or caramel pudding with excellent results.

Why is my pudding layer not setting properly?
Make sure you’re using instant pudding mix and cold milk. Whisk vigorously for the full 2 minutes, and allow proper refrigeration time. Using whole milk rather than skim also helps with setting.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes, you can substitute 8 oz of thawed whipped topping for each cup of heavy cream in this recipe for convenience.

How do I prevent the graham cracker crust from getting soggy?
Pressing the crust firmly into the pan and allowing it to chill before adding the next layer helps create a more stable base. You can also brush the crust with a thin layer of melted white chocolate to create a barrier between the crust and cream cheese layer.

A Perfect Finish to Any Meal

This Pecan Pie Lasagna is comfort food at its finest — a nostalgic nod to classic pecan pie transformed into a modern, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires no baking. It’s the kind of dish that becomes the centerpiece of your dessert table, drawing everyone together with its layers of creamy, crunchy, caramel goodness. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply to make an ordinary family dinner feel special, this layered dessert captures the essence of what makes pecan pie so beloved while offering something fresh and exciting. One bite of this pecan pie lasagna, and you’ll understand why it deserves a permanent place in your dessert repertoire.

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