Best Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe Easy No-Bake Dessert

Name: Best Pecan Pie Lasagna Recipe Easy No-Bake Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups whipped topping, divided; 1 can (about 2 cups) pecan pie filling; 1 cup chopped pecans; Caramel sauce for drizzling

Posted on August 9, 2025

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Imagine layers of creamy, nutty, caramel goodness stacked into a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make. This pecan pie lasagna combines everything you love about traditional pecan pie with the simplicity of a no-bake recipe. Trust me, one bite of this dessert, and you’ll be hooked! Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing holiday treat or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is the perfect solution. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this show-stopping dessert without turning on the oven.

The Story Behind Pecan Pie Lasagna

Pecan pie is a beloved Southern classic, but let’s face it—making pie crust from scratch can feel like a chore. That’s where this no-bake pecan pie lasagna comes in. It’s a modern twist on the traditional pie, inspired by layered desserts like tiramisu and icebox cakes.

I first stumbled upon the idea of dessert lasagnas at a potluck, where someone brought a chocolate lasagna. It got me thinking—why not take the rich, buttery flavors of pecan pie and layer them into something just as decadent but easier to make? Fast forward a few experiments in the kitchen, and voilà!

This recipe has become a staple during the holidays at my house. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving when pecans are at their peak, but honestly, you can make it any time of year. The best part? No baking means you’re free to focus on other dishes or just relax while this dessert chills in the fridge.

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s talk about what makes this pecan pie lasagna so special. Each ingredient plays a key role, and I’ll share tips for selecting the best quality items and making substitutions if needed.

Pecans: Always go for fresh, whole pecans for the best flavor. You want them to be crunchy and fragrant. If you can, buy them from a local farmer’s market—they’re often fresher. For a budget-friendly option, chopped pecans work just fine.
Graham Cracker Crust: This is the sturdy base that holds everything together. You can use store-bought graham crackers or make your own crumbs. If you’re gluten-free, swap them out for gluten-free cookies or crackers.
Cream Cheese: The creamy layer of this lasagna depends on high-quality cream cheese. Full-fat is best for richness, but low-fat works if you’re watching your calories.
Whipped Topping: A tub of whipped topping makes this dessert light and airy. If you’re feeling fancy, whip up some heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla instead.
Pecan Pie Filling: You can use canned pie filling to save time, or make your own with pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup. The homemade route gives you more control over sweetness and texture.
This ties everything together with a luscious drizzle. Store-bought is fine, but homemade caramel sauce takes this dessert to the next level.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe, and that’s part of its charm. Here’s what you’ll need:

9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for layering everything evenly.
Mixing bowls: A few medium-sized bowls for whipping up the layers.
Spatula: Essential for spreading the creamy layers smoothly.
Food processor: Optional, but helpful for crushing graham crackers or whipping up homemade whipped cream.
Plastic wrap or foil: For covering the dish while it chills.

If you don’t have a food processor, simply crush graham crackers in a resealable bag using a rolling pin—it’s oddly satisfying!

Preparation Method

Make the crust: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs (about 2 cups). Mix with 1/2 cup melted butter until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.
Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in 2 cups whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
Add the pecan pie layer: Spread 1 can (or about 2 cups) of pecan pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Be gentle to avoid mixing the layers.
Whipped topping layer: Spread another 2 cups of whipped topping over the pecan pie layer. Smooth it out with a spatula.
Top with pecans and caramel drizzle: Sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans over the top, then drizzle with caramel sauce. Get creative—it’s okay if some caramel pools in spots!
Chill and serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your pecan pie lasagna turns out perfectly:

Don’t rush the chilling: Letting the dessert chill for at least 4 hours is key to getting clean slices.
Layer carefully: Spread each layer evenly to avoid mixing flavors. A spatula or offset knife works wonders.
Use fresh pecans: Stale nuts can ruin the flavor—store them in an airtight container or the freezer to keep them fresh.
Adjust the sweetness: If using homemade pecan pie filling, taste it before assembling to ensure it’s not too sweet.
Make ahead: This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for holiday prep.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Chocolate twist: Add a layer of chocolate pudding between the cream cheese and pecan pie layers.
Seasonal swap: Replace pecan pie filling with apple or pumpkin pie filling for a fall-inspired take.
Nut-free option: Use crushed pretzels instead of pecans for the topping, and swap the pie filling with a caramel custard.
Boozy version: Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan pie filling for a grown-up treat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this dessert chilled for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To make it extra pretty, sprinkle a few whole pecans on top before serving.

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the layers from drying out. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to a month—just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dessert isn’t exactly low-calorie, but it’s worth every bite. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 450-500
Fat: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 50-55g
Protein: 3-5g

Pecans are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, making them a great ingredient for heart health. Plus, this no-bake recipe skips the extra butter and sugar in traditional pie crusts. It’s indulgent, but still a bit lighter.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious, this pecan pie lasagna is it. I love how it combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a no-bake recipe. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your preferences.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your variations and tips in the comments below. And don’t forget to share a photo on social media—tag me so I can see your creations. Happy layering!

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s best to prepare it the day before and let it chill overnight for maximum flavor and firmness.

Can I use homemade pecan pie filling?

Yes! Homemade filling adds a personal touch and lets you control the sweetness and texture.

What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

A food processor works perfectly, but you can also use a resealable bag and a rolling pin for a quick DIY method.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing?

Spread each layer carefully with a spatula or offset knife, and chill the crust before adding the cream cheese layer.

Can I freeze pecan pie lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.