Best Strawberry Lasagna – Easy No-Bake Dessert
There’s something magical about summer desserts—the way they capture the essence of sun-ripened fruit and lazy afternoons. Last weekend, as I wandered through the farmers’ market, baskets of strawberries practically glowed under the morning light. I couldn’t resist bringing home a few pints, and suddenly, the idea of a “Strawberry Lasagna” danced into my mind. Not the savory kind, of course, but a dreamy, no-bake layered dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to share. Imagine creamy filling, fresh berries, and delicate layers of graham crackers, all coming together in a dish that feels like a hug in dessert form. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Lasagna is a symphony of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this showstopper:
- Graham crackers – The “noodles” of our dessert lasagna! Their honey-kissed crunch is the perfect base.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened) – The heart of the creamy layer. Let it sit at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup) – Whipped into soft peaks for cloud-like texture.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup) – Just enough sweetness to balance the tart berries.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – A warm, aromatic touch.
- Fresh strawberries (2 cups, sliced) – The star of the show! Look for plump, fragrant berries.
- Strawberry jam (½ cup) – For a glossy, fruity layer that ties everything together.
- Lemon zest (optional) – A bright little lift if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Make Strawberry Lasagna
This recipe is as easy as it is delightful. Here’s how to layer up the goodness:
- Prep your dish. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish—or use a pretty trifle bowl for a more elegant look.
- Layer the graham crackers. Line the bottom with a single layer, breaking them as needed to fit snugly.
- Whip the creamy filling. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This combo is pure magic!
- Spread half the cream. Dollop half of the creamy filling over the graham crackers and smooth it gently.
- Add the strawberries. Scatter half of the sliced berries over the cream, then drizzle with half of the strawberry jam.
- Repeat the layers. Another layer of graham crackers, the remaining cream, more strawberries, and a final drizzle of jam. Top with a few extra berry slices for a gorgeous finish.
- Chill and set. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the graham crackers soften just enough.
Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little lemon zest over the top before serving—it makes the strawberries sing!
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
This Strawberry Lasagna is wonderfully forgiving, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to customize it:
- Swap the fruit: Use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of summer berries for a different twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free graham crackers or shortbread cookies for the crust.
- Add a hint of citrus: A teaspoon of lemon zest in the cream cheese layer brightens the flavors beautifully.
- Go lighter: Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the whipped topping for a tangier, less sweet version.
What to Serve With Strawberry Lasagna
This dessert is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more special. Try:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
- A cup of hot tea or iced coffee to balance the sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Strawberry Lasagna is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them tasting great:
- Refrigerate: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While possible, the texture may change slightly. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Serving chilled: Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before and let it chill in the fridge—the flavors meld even better.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the dessert soggy.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A 9×13-inch baking dish works too—just slice into squares instead of wedges.
Is there a way to make this vegan?
Try dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped topping, and vegan graham crackers for a plant-based version.
A Sweet Final Thought
There’s something magical about a dessert that’s both effortless and unforgettable. Whether you’re serving this Strawberry Lasagna at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just treating yourself on a quiet evening, it’s sure to bring smiles. The layers of creamy sweetness and fresh berries are like a hug in dessert form—simple, comforting, and made with love. So grab a fork, gather your favorite people, and savor every delicious bite.
PrintStrawberry Lasagna
A delicious no-bake dessert lasagna with layers of graham crackers, cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
- Arrange sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Warm the strawberry jam slightly and drizzle over the strawberries.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the strawberries.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.