Pecan Pie Lasagna is a decadent, sweet dessert that combines the classic flavors of a pecan pie with the layered structure of a lasagna. It’s made with layers of creamy filling, crunchy pecans, and a buttery crust, all topped with a luscious glaze. Perfect for a holiday dessert or any time you want to impress your guests with something unique and indulgent. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers (about 10-12 crackers)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Pecan Pie Layer:
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
For the Top:
- 1/2 cup whipped topping (optional, for garnish)
- Extra pecans, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, forming an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Once the graham cracker crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
3. Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
4. Chill the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
- Once chilled, slice the pecan pie lasagna into squares.
- Optionally, top each piece with a dollop of whipped topping and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for garnish.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Pecan Substitution: If you prefer, you can use other nuts, like walnuts or almonds, though pecans are traditional for this dessert.
- Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead. It needs time to chill in the fridge, so you can prepare it the day before your event.
- Extra Sweetness: If you like extra sweetness, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving.
- Customize the Layers: Feel free to add an extra layer of whipped cream or more nuts to customize the texture and flavor to your liking.
This Pecan Pie Lasagna is a showstopper dessert, full of rich, sweet, and nutty flavors. It combines the best of pecan pie and lasagna into one delightful dish! Would you like to adjust any ingredients or need any more variations for this recipe?