Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pecan Pie Lasagna is a rich, creamy, and decadent twist on two beloved classics — the gooey sweetness of pecan pie layered with the silky texture of dessert lasagna. Imagine buttery graham crackers, caramel pudding, velvety cheesecake filling, and crunchy pecans all stacked into a no-bake masterpiece. It’s a Southern-inspired dessert that’s as stunning as it is easy to make. I once drizzled warm caramel sauce between each layer for extra indulgence, and it turned into one of my most requested desserts ever. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or make-ahead gatherings, this pecan pie lasagna delivers layers of pure comfort and sweetness with every bite.
Print
Pecan Pie Lasagna: A No-Bake Southern-Inspired Dessert Dream
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie Lasagna is a rich, layered dessert that combines the flavors of classic pecan pie with creamy cheesecake and fluffy whipped topping. With a buttery graham cracker crust, caramel pecan filling, and luscious cream layers, this no-bake dessert is perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (for final layer)
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated, then press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon, and let cool slightly.
- Spread the pecan mixture evenly over the chilled crust and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread this layer over the cooled pecan layer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Spread pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping, spreading evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow layers to set.
- Before serving, drizzle generously with caramel sauce and sprinkle with extra chopped pecans.
Notes
- Use a shortbread crust instead of graham crackers for a richer flavor.
- Make ahead the day before for best texture and flavor.
- For extra crunch, toast pecans before using.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs – The buttery base that gives the lasagna its structure.
Butter – Melted and mixed with crumbs for a rich, firm crust.
Cream cheese – Softened for easy mixing, forming the creamy cheesecake layer.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling and gives it a smooth texture.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note to the cream layers.
Cool Whip or whipped topping – Lightens the cheesecake and pudding layers for a fluffy, airy texture.
Instant caramel or butterscotch pudding mix – The golden layer of caramel flavor that mimics the taste of pecan pie filling.
Cold milk – Used to set the pudding mix.
Brown sugar – Adds that classic pecan pie sweetness and depth of flavor.
Chopped pecans – Toasted for crunch and that signature nutty flavor.
Caramel sauce – For layering and drizzling — the finishing touch that ties it all together.
Sea salt (optional) – A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor.
Directions
Start with the crust. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill for at least 20 minutes to set.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Next, prepare the pudding layer. Whisk the instant caramel pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Spread evenly over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with a few chopped pecans.
Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it smoothly over the pudding layer. Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, to let the layers firm up.
Before serving, garnish with more caramel drizzle, toasted pecans, and a light sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled — each layer melts in your mouth with the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and buttery sweetness.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 12–15 people. Preparation takes about 25 minutes, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time. Total time: approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months — just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, serve cold for the best creamy texture.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Pecan Pie Lasagna – Add a layer of chocolate pudding or drizzle melted chocolate between layers for a richer twist.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Lasagna – Add a pumpkin puree layer mixed with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired version.
Salted Caramel Pecan Lasagna – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on each caramel layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
Maple Pecan Lasagna – Replace caramel sauce with maple syrup for a cozy, breakfast-inspired flavor.
Nutella Pecan Lasagna – Add a layer of Nutella or chocolate-hazelnut spread for extra indulgence.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Lasagna – Add a splash of bourbon to the pudding or caramel sauce for an adults-only dessert.
Coconut Pecan Lasagna – Mix shredded coconut into the whipped topping layer for a tropical touch.
Brownie Crust Version – Use a baked brownie base instead of graham crackers for a fudgy upgrade.
Mini Dessert Cups – Layer in small jars or glasses for individual servings — perfect for parties.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Lasagna – Add a cheesecake-flavored pudding layer for a double dose of creamy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely cooled before layering.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely — it’s best when chilled overnight to allow the layers to set.
Can I use different nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work, but pecans give the most authentic flavor.
Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized (use a bit of gelatin or powdered sugar).
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
How do I toast the pecans?
Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
Can I use butterscotch pudding instead of caramel?
Definitely — it gives the same rich flavor.
Does it need to be refrigerated?
Yes, it must be chilled to stay firm and creamy.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
How long does it last?
Up to 5 days in the refrigerator — though it rarely lasts that long once served!
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Lasagna is a luscious, no-bake dessert that combines Southern charm with easy elegance. Each layer — from the buttery crust to the creamy filling and caramel-drizzled pecans — creates a dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and irresistibly smooth. It’s a perfect make-ahead option for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you want a dessert that wows without the hassle. Whether you serve it in a big dish or as individual parfaits, every spoonful delivers that cozy, sweet pecan pie flavor in a whole new way. Creamy, crunchy, and absolutely unforgettable — this dessert is pure Southern comfort in every layer.
Looking for more tasty recipes? Visit our website for full details and follow us on Pinterest for daily food ideas to save and share