Decadent Pecan Pie Lasagna A luscious layered dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese, sweet and nutty pecan pie filling, and a light whipped topping with a drizzle of caramel. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions when you want to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe brings together the rich flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-serve layered dessert. The combination of textures—from the crunchy crust to the creamy layers and the chewy pecan topping—is irresistible. It’s simple to make ahead, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Pecan Pie Layer:
1 1/2 cups pecan halves
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping:
1 cup whipped topping
1/4 cup caramel sauce
Extra pecans for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix thoroughly, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes and allow it to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping gently. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust, then refrigerate to set.
Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer: In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before stirring in the pecan halves. Spread this layer over the cream cheese mixture evenly.
Top and Serve: Spread the whipped topping over the pecan pie layer. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top, and sprinkle extra pecans as garnish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the layers are fully set. Slice into squares to serve.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with toasted sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or mix chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Alcohol Kick: Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan pie layer for an adult twist.
Individual Servings: Layer the dessert in small jars for single-serve portions.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Pie Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the cream cheese and whipped topping may separate upon thawing.
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FAQs
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
I usually make it a day ahead. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it’s ready to serve the next day.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, fresh whipped cream works wonderfully. Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks for stability.
Can I substitute honey for corn syrup?
Honey can be used, but the texture and flavor of the pecan pie layer might be slightly different.
What type of caramel sauce should I use?
I like to use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience, but homemade caramel works if you have time.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Sprinkling chocolate chips over the crust or into the cream cheese layer adds a delightful twist.
Conclusion
Decadent Pecan Pie Lasagna is the ultimate indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Its layers of flavors and textures make it a standout dish at any gathering. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery crust, creamy layers, and rich pecan pie filling. This dessert might just become a holiday favorite!
📖 Recipe:
PrintDecadent Pecan Pie Lasagna
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent Pecan Pie Lasagna is a luscious layered dessert combining a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy layers, rich pecan pie filling, and a caramel drizzle. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this no-fuss treat is easy to make ahead and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
For the Pecan Pie Layer:
1 1/2 cups pecan halves
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 cup whipped topping
1/4 cup caramel sauce
Extra pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes and let cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gently fold in whipped topping.
- Spread over the cooled crust and refrigerate to set.
- Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer:
- Combine corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium, stirring until smooth.
- Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Cool slightly and stir in pecans.
- Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Top and Serve:
- Spread whipped topping over the pecan layer.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top and garnish with extra pecans.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set. Slice into squares to serve.
Notes
To make fresh whipped cream, beat heavy cream with a touch of sugar until stiff peaks form.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake + Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 380 kcal