Name: Pecan Pie Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package of no-bake lasagna noodles; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped pecans; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups whipped topping; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

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This extraordinary dessert transforms the classic pecan pie into an elegant layered creation that combines creamy cheesecake filling with buttery pecan pie goodness. It's a show-stopping treat that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Pecan Pie Lasagna brilliantly reinvents two beloved classics into one unforgettable dessert. The contrast between the rich, nutty pecan layers and the smooth, creamy cheesecake filling creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. This no-bake dessert is surprisingly simple to prepare despite its impressive appearance, making it perfect for holidays when oven space is at a premium. The make-ahead nature of this dessert also allows the flavors to develop and intensify as it chills, giving you one less thing to worry about on the day of your gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

No-bake lasagna noodles serve as the structural foundation of this dessert, creating distinct layers that hold everything together. Unlike their savory counterparts, these noodles soften without cooking and take on a cake-like texture when surrounded by the sweet fillings.

Heavy cream contributes richness and volume to the dessert, helping create that luscious mouthfeel that makes each bite so satisfying.

Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, providing that distinctive tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. Make sure it's properly softened for the smoothest texture.

Powdered sugar dissolves seamlessly into the cheesecake mixture, sweetening without adding any graininess that could disrupt the silky texture.

Vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake layer, enhancing all the other flavors in the dessert with its aromatic qualities.

Pecans are the heart and soul of this dessert, delivering that classic pecan pie flavor along with a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamier elements.

Butter forms the base of the pecan filling, contributing a rich, velvety quality that makes the pecan layer utterly irresistible.

Brown sugar brings deep caramel notes to the pecan mixture, creating that characteristic pecan pie flavor that makes this dessert so nostalgic and comforting.

Corn syrup helps create the gooey texture in the pecan layer that's reminiscent of traditional pecan pie filling. It also prevents sugar crystallization, ensuring a smooth result.

Cinnamon adds a warming spice note that complements the pecans perfectly and enhances the dessert's homey appeal.

Salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and bringing out all the other flavors in the dessert. Even a small amount makes a significant difference.

Whipped topping lightens the texture of the cheesecake layer, making it fluffy and mousse-like rather than dense and heavy.

Chocolate chips provide an optional finishing touch, adding small bursts of chocolate flavor that pair wonderfully with the pecans and cheesecake.

Directions

Prepare the no-bake lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then set them aside to cool.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add in the whipped topping and mix until well combined. Set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to thicken.
Add the chopped pecans to the saucepan and stir to coat them with the syrup mixture. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the cheesecake mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch dish. Top with a layer of lasagna noodles, then spread a layer of the pecan mixture on top.
Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheesecake mixture on top.
Cover the lasagna with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Before serving, sprinkle with chocolate chips, if desired, for an extra touch of indulgence.

Servings and Timing

This Pecan Pie Lasagna recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, with about 10 minutes of cooking time for the pecan filling. However, the most important part is the chilling time of at least 4 hours (preferably overnight), which allows the dessert to set properly and the flavors to meld. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.

Variations

Chocolate Pecan Pie Lasagna: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the noodles and pecan filling for a more decadent version.

Bourbon Pecan Pie Lasagna: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the pecan mixture for a grown-up twist on this classic dessert.

Maple Pecan Pie Lasagna: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a more complex sweetness and authentic fall flavor.

Caramel Pecan Pie Lasagna: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers and on top for an extra sweet and gooey dessert.

Mixed Nut Lasagna: Substitute half of the pecans with a mixture of walnuts, cashews, and hazelnuts for a variety of flavors and textures.

Storage/Reheating

This Pecan Pie Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days. The flavors actually continue to develop during storage, making this an excellent make-ahead dessert.

For the best texture and flavor, serve cold directly from the refrigerator. This dessert is not designed to be reheated, as heating would melt the cheesecake layers and compromise the structure.

If you want to make this dessert even further in advance, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To freeze, cover the assembled dessert tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Individual slices can also be wrapped and frozen for quick dessert options later. Simply thaw a slice in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of no-bake ones?

Regular lasagna noodles can be used, but they must be cooked according to package directions and then cooled completely before assembling the dessert. No-bake noodles are recommended for their convenience and because they absorb less moisture from the filling, helping maintain the dessert's structure.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese, use plant-based butter, and replace the heavy cream and whipped topping with coconut cream-based alternatives. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

If you prefer not to use corn syrup, you can substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or even golden syrup. Each alternative will impart a slightly different flavor to the pecan filling.

Can I add chocolate to the pecan filling?

Absolutely! Mixing in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate to the pecan filling after removing it from the heat will create a delicious chocolate pecan pie flavor.

How do I know when the dessert is set properly?

The dessert is properly set when the layers hold together firmly when sliced. This typically requires at least 4 hours of refrigeration, but overnight is best. If the dessert seems too soft after 4 hours, continue refrigerating for a few more hours.

Can I make individual servings instead of one large dessert?

Yes, you can assemble individual servings in small ramekins or dessert cups. Break the noodles to fit your containers and layer as directed in the recipe. This makes for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

To make this gluten-free, replace the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones, or use thin layers of gluten-free cookies or cake as the dividing layers. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly the corn syrup, are certified gluten-free.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?

This dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld better and the noodles to soften completely.

Why is my pecan filling too runny?

If your pecan filling is too runny, you may not have simmered it long enough. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If needed, you can return it to the heat for a few more minutes to thicken further.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Lasagna brilliantly reimagines two beloved classics into one show-stopping dessert that's sure to become a new tradition at your table. The harmonious balance of creamy cheesecake layers with rich, nutty pecan pie filling creates a dessert that's both familiar and excitingly new. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its impressive appearance and delicious taste but also in its make-ahead convenience that makes entertaining a breeze. Whether you're serving it for a special holiday meal or simply wanting to treat your family to something special, this Pecan Pie Lasagna delivers unforgettable flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Consider making this your signature dessert for gatherings—it's certain to gather rave reviews and requests for the recipe.