Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is an irresistible, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheesecake layers, fresh strawberries, and graham cracker crust, this dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s refreshing, layered, and bursting with strawberry flavor, making it perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you need an easy yet decadent treat.

Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna combines the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake with the lightness of fresh strawberries and whipped topping. It’s assembled in layers for a “lasagna” effect, featuring graham cracker crust, layers of cheesecake filling, and juicy strawberries. The result is a dessert that’s not only visually appealing but also utterly delicious. The best part? This recipe requires no baking, so it’s perfect even on hot days when you’d rather not turn on the oven.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Crush the Graham Crackers: Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
3. Press into the Baking Dish: Pour the crumb mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and press firmly to create an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact the crumbs. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the next layers.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well-combined.
3. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Continue folding until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
4. Spread the Cheesecake Layer: Remove the crust from the refrigerator and evenly spread the cheesecake mixture over it, using a spatula to smooth the top. Place the dish back in the refrigerator to chill.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

1. Prepare the Gelatin: In a medium mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin mix in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water. Let the gelatin cool for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
2. Slice the Strawberries: While the gelatin is cooling, slice the strawberries and set aside.
3. Layer the Strawberries: Arrange half of the strawberry slices over the cheesecake layer, pressing them gently to adhere.
4. Pour the Gelatin: Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the strawberries. The gelatin should be cool enough that it doesn’t melt the cheesecake layer.
5. Add More Strawberries: Arrange the remaining strawberry slices on top of the gelatin layer.

Layering Instructions

1. Bottom Layer: The graham cracker crust serves as the base for this dessert, adding a slight crunch and complementing the creamy layers.
2. Middle Layer: The cheesecake filling, which is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, acts as the second layer and pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.
3. Top Layer: Fresh strawberries and gelatin create the top layer, adding a burst of color and refreshing flavor.

Chilling and Serving

1. Chill the Dessert: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the dessert is fully set. This step is essential to ensure the layers are firm and flavors meld.
2. Garnish with Graham Cracker Crumbs: Before serving, sprinkle a bit of graham cracker crumbs on top for a decorative touch.
3. Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce (Optional): For added flair and flavor, drizzle strawberry sauce over each slice before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This will help you achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
2. Let the Gelatin Cool: Make sure the gelatin is cool before pouring it over the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.
3. Refrigerate Long Enough: Don’t rush the chilling process, as it’s necessary for setting the layers and enhancing the flavors.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Strawberry Lasagna: Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the graham cracker crust for a chocolate twist.
2. Vanilla Wafer Crust: Substitute vanilla wafers for graham crackers to create a slightly different flavor.
3. Mixed Berry Layer: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a berry medley.

Storing and Freezing

Storing

• Refrigerate: Store the lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is the ultimate no-bake dessert that brings together layers of flavor and texture in a single dish. Its beautiful presentation and incredible taste make it a dessert worth sharing with loved ones. Enjoy each layer of creaminess, crunch, and fresh strawberry sweetness!

Yield: 12

Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe

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Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is an irresistible, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheesecake layers, fresh strawberries, and graham cracker crust, this dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It's refreshing, layered, and bursting with strawberry flavor, making it perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any time you need an easy yet decadent treat.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Chill Time 4 hours

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Cheesecake Layer:
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• For the Strawberry Layer:
• 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Fresh strawberry slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until fully mixed and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Set aside.
   
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
   Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust.
   
3. Add the Strawberry Layer:
   In a small bowl, combine the strawberry slices with the strawberry jam, stirring gently to coat the berries. Spread the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer in an even layer.
   
4. Whipped Cream Topping:
   In a clean bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe this whipped cream over the strawberry layer.
   
5. Chill:
   Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set.
   
6. Serve:
   Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

• Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect to prepare a day in advance for easy serving at gatherings.
• Variations: Swap strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delicious twist.