Description
This Decadent Pecan Pie Lasagna is a luscious layered dessert combining a crunchy graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a rich pecan pie filling topped with whipped topping and caramel sauce. Perfectly chilled for a set texture, it offers a delightful blend of creamy, nutty, and sweet flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Pecan Pie Layer
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- Extra pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust foundation.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until it is set and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before layering.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust evenly, then refrigerate to let it set properly.
- Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer: In a saucepan, combine the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil briefly, then remove from heat and cool slightly before stirring in the pecan halves.
- Assemble the Pecan Layer: Spread the pecan mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer within the baking dish.
- Top and Garnish: Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the pecan layer smoothly. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly across the top and garnish with extra pecans according to your preference.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled lasagna dessert for at least 4 hours, allowing all layers to set firmly. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve chilled for the best decadent experience.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth cream cheese layer without lumps.
- Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
- Chilling the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours is crucial for the layers to set properly and develop the best flavor fusion.
- You can substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
