Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This Pecan Pie Lasagna is the perfect answer for your next holiday. It is creamy, crunchy, and completely delicious. You do not even need to turn on the oven! This dessert is perfect for busy holiday hosting and family gatherings.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for your holiday table. It combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with a cool, creamy texture. Since it is no-bake, you save precious oven space for the turkey. Your family will love the rich butterscotch and crunchy pecans in every bite. It is a budget-friendly treat that looks very impressive. Even beginner cooks can master these simple, delicious layers.
Simple Method
Making this dessert is all about easy assembly. You start with a simple graham cracker base. Then, you layer on sweet cream cheese and smooth butterscotch pudding. The stove is only used for a quick praline drizzle. This stress-free approach makes it easy to handle. You can focus on your guests while the fridge does the work. Anyone can make this beautiful layered cake at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You likely have many of these pantry staples in your kitchen right now.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 oz whipped topping, divided
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Step-by-Step Directions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until uniform.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and freeze for 10 minutes to set.
- Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
- Fold in 8 ounces of whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture and spread evenly over the chilled crust.
- Whisk instant butterscotch pudding mix and milk together in a separate bowl for 2 minutes; allow to sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Combine brown sugar, 1/4 cup butter, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped pecans, remove from heat, and allow the praline mixture to cool completely to room temperature.
- Spread the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Drizzle the cooled pecan praline mixture over the top of the dessert.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to ensure the layers are fully set before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dessert cold right from the refrigerator. It looks beautiful when sliced into clean, golden and creamy squares. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee after a big meal. This is the ultimate potluck dessert because it travels so well. Your friends will definitely ask for this recipe before the night ends. Set it out on your holiday dessert table and watch it disappear.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the dish tightly covered with plastic wrap or a lid. This dessert actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. You can even freeze it for up to one month. Just thaw it in the fridge before you plan to serve. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday weeks.
Recipe Tips
Ways to Switch It Up
Common Questions
Can I make this a day ahead?
Yes, this is a perfect make-ahead dessert. It needs at least four hours to set anyway. Making it the night before is even better for your schedule.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
You can use homemade whipped cream if you prefer. Just make sure it is whipped to very stiff peaks. This helps the layers stay firm and beautiful.
How do I know when it is ready?
The dessert is ready when the layers feel firm to the touch. Four hours in the fridge is usually enough time. It should slice easily without falling apart.
I hope this creamy Pecan Pie Lasagna brings a little extra joy to your table. It is the perfect cozy treat for those crisp fall evenings. Give it a try and enjoy every sweet bite!
— Lidia
Pecan Pie Lasagna
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 oz whipped topping, divided
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until uniform.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish and freeze for 10 minutes to set.
- Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
- Fold in 8 ounces of whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture and spread evenly over the chilled crust.
- Whisk instant butterscotch pudding mix and milk together in a separate bowl for 2 minutes; allow to sit for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Combine brown sugar, 1/4 cup butter, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer for 3 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped pecans, remove from heat, and allow the praline mixture to cool completely to room temperature.
- Spread the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Drizzle the cooled pecan praline mixture over the top of the dessert.
- Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to ensure the layers are fully set before slicing and serving.
