If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that delivers creamy layers, fresh summer flavor, and incredible ease, this Strawberry Lasagna is about to become your new favorite no-bake dessert. With a crisp graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake filling, sweet layers of pudding, whipped cream, and plenty of juicy strawberries, every bite is a joyful celebration of berry season. Whether you have a family gathering coming up or simply want a special treat to stash in the fridge, Strawberry Lasagna is a recipe you’ll want to make all summer long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Strawberry Lasagna comes down to using simple ingredients that harmonize into an irresistible treat. Each element brings something special to the table: crunch, creaminess, or a punch of beautiful berry color.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the dessert, adding a deliciously sweet and slightly salty crunch.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the graham crumbs together for a sturdy, flavorful crust.
- Cream cheese, softened: Offers a tangy, creamy layer reminiscent of cheesecake, balancing all the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Blends smoothly into the cream cheese to sweeten without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to every creamy layer.
- Heavy whipping cream: Gives this dessert its signature cloud-like, luxurious texture.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Instantly thickens to make a dreamy, quick custard layer.
- Cold milk: Activates and sets the pudding, helping everything stay rich and smooth.
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: The bright, juicy highlight—always use ripe berries for maximum flavor and color contrast.
- Granulated sugar (optional): Sweetens the strawberries if they’re a little tart; totally up to your taste buds.
- White chocolate chips or shavings (optional): Adds a touch of elegance and a pop of sweetness right on top.
How to Make Strawberry Lasagna
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by mixing together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until every crumb is coated. This buttery mixture will become the sturdy yet tender base of your Strawberry Lasagna. Press it firmly into a 9×13-inch dish using the bottom of a glass for an ultra-compact crust—no baking required.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat your softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. The goal is a silky, lump-free mixture packed with vanilla aroma. Whip the heavy cream separately until it holds stiff peaks, then gently fold half of it into the cream cheese base for a luscious, airy filling. Carefully spread this creamy concoction over your graham crust, making sure it reaches every corner.
Step 3: Spread the Vanilla Pudding Layer
Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until noticeably thickened—this should only take a couple of minutes. This layer brings a hint of custard-like flavor that pairs perfectly with everything else. Distribute evenly over the cheesecake layer, smoothing with a spatula for those iconic, picture-perfect stripes.
Step 4: Sweeten and Layer the Strawberries
Toss your sliced strawberries with a sprinkle of granulated sugar if they need an extra kick of sweetness; if they’re already at peak ripeness, let their natural flavor shine. Lay them in an even layer right over the pudding so every bite is packed with strawberry bursts.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Top the fruit with the remaining whipped cream, spreading it gently to avoid disturbing the lower layers. For a final flourish, scatter white chocolate chips or elegant white chocolate shavings across the top. Refrigerate your Strawberry Lasagna for at least four hours (or overnight) so every layer is perfectly set and sliceable.
How to Serve Strawberry Lasagna
Garnishes
For a beautiful finish and extra flavor, sprinkle on more fresh strawberry slices, a pinch of lemon zest, or even a few edible flowers just before serving. A handful of crushed graham crackers or extra white chocolate shavings turns your Strawberry Lasagna into a true showstopper for any dessert table.
Side Dishes
While Strawberry Lasagna shines all on its own, pairing it with a cool glass of rosé or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes it even more special. For variety at the table, consider serving alongside other no-bake favorites like lemon bars or chocolate mousse.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try assembling Strawberry Lasagna in individual mason jars or small trifle cups—guests will love their own pretty parfait. You can also layer it in a deep glass bowl for a dramatic trifle effect, showcasing all those luscious layers through the sides.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Strawberry Lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors might even intensify with a little extra time to meld.
Freezing
Craving a longer shelf life? Freeze your Strawberry Lasagna without the fresh strawberries and whipped cream topping. Wrap the dish tightly with foil or plastic, and when you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the final layers fresh.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat—this dessert is designed to be enjoyed chilled, straight from the refrigerator! If you prefer a softer texture after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
You can use frozen strawberries, just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the layers soggy. Fresh strawberries do offer the best color and texture.
Is Strawberry Lasagna gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses graham crackers, which contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with your favorite gluten-free graham cracker or cookie crumbs.
Can I make Strawberry Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting your Strawberry Lasagna chill for several hours (or even overnight) helps the flavors blend and the layers fully set, making for easier slicing and serving.
What can I use instead of white chocolate chips for the topping?
Feel free to get creative: try dark chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or even a dusting of freeze-dried strawberries for added flair and flavor.
How do I prevent my Strawberry Lasagna from becoming watery?
Always use well-drained, ripe strawberries and let the dessert fully chill before slicing. Avoid overmixing or overspreading juicy fruit, and keep layers as even as possible.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sharing a chilled dish of Strawberry Lasagna with family and friends on a sunny day. Its playful layers and vibrant flavors make every bite a little celebration. Give this recipe a try—you’re bound to make some sweet memories!
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Strawberry Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus 4 hours chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delightful no-bake Strawberry Lasagna, featuring layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, fresh strawberries, and a hint of white chocolate. A perfect summer dessert that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
Strawberry Layer:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
- ½ cup white chocolate chips or shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press into the dish.
- Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream, spread over crust.
- Pudding Layer: Whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened; spread over cream cheese layer.
- Strawberry Layer: Toss strawberries with sugar; layer over pudding.
- Assembly: Top with remaining whipped cream and white chocolate. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Consider using whipped topping for a lighter version.
- Try crushed golden Oreos for a sweeter crust.
- Chill well for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
