Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe

If you're looking for a show-stopping dessert that is easy to make, absolutely delicious, and visually stunning, then you're in the right place. Our Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a decadent, no-bake treat that combines layers of creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and crushed graham crackers. The best part? No oven required! Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress. Keep reading to discover the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitutions, and presentation tips to make your cheesecake lasagna perfect.

What is a Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna?

Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a no-bake dessert consisting of layers that alternate between creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and graham cracker crumbs. Think of it like a lasagna—but instead of pasta and sauce, you have layers of sweet, creamy goodness and fresh fruit. It's perfect for those who want a delicious dessert without the hassle of baking.

Ingredients List for Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

To make this delightful dessert, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for whipping cream)

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, if strawberries aren’t sweet enough)

For the Crust Layer:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-14 graham crackers)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 2 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Extra strawberries for garnish
• White or dark chocolate shavings
• Mint leaves for decoration

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up or make adjustments based on your preferences? Here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers or any gluten-free cookie for the crust.
• Lighter Version: Substitute light cream cheese and low-fat whipped topping instead of full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.
• Berry Variety: Swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry medley.
• Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate or sprinkle chocolate chips between the layers for an extra indulgent twist.
• Oreo Crust: Replace the graham cracker crust with crushed Oreo cookies for a richer, chocolatey base.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to assemble this incredible dessert! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna.

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

• Start by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can either do this by using a food processor or placing the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to create an even layer for the crust. Place it in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, whip 2 cups of cold heavy cream with ¼ cup of granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it stays light and fluffy. This is your cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Slice the Strawberries

• Wash and slice the strawberries. If your strawberries aren’t very sweet, sprinkle them with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and let them sit for a few minutes to macerate, drawing out their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

• Spread half of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula.
• Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake filling.
• Repeat with the remaining cheesecake mixture and another layer of strawberries.

Step 5: Whipped Cream Topping

• In a clean mixing bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Spread the whipped cream evenly on top of the final layer of strawberries.

Step 6: Chill the Dessert

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate the cheesecake lasagna for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

How to Cook Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

While this is a no-bake recipe, the key to success is the layering and chilling process. Here’s a quick recap of how to make this dessert come together perfectly:

1. Crust: Make sure the graham cracker crust is pressed firmly into the dish and allowed to chill before adding the cheesecake filling.
2. Cheesecake Filling: Whip the cream cheese and heavy cream separately, then gently fold them together to keep the mixture light and airy.
3. Strawberry Layer: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor, and macerate them with sugar if needed to enhance their sweetness.
4. Chill Time: Allow the lasagna to chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight is even better for firm, well-defined layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Whipped Cream: Be careful not to overmix the whipped cream when folding it into the cream cheese mixture. Overmixing can cause the cream to deflate and result in a dense, heavy cheesecake layer.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Don’t rush the process. Chilling the dessert for several hours (preferably overnight) is crucial for firm layers and the best flavor.
• Using Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key to this dessert's flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries release too much liquid as they thaw, which can make the dessert watery and soggy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna. Here are some tips to make it look as good as it tastes:

• Use a Glass Dish: A clear, glass dish will show off the beautiful layers, making the dessert visually appealing.
• Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Add a few halved strawberries on top of the whipped cream layer for a pop of color.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some white or dark chocolate shavings on top for a touch of elegance.
• Mint Sprigs: A few fresh mint leaves will add a pop of green, making the dessert look even more vibrant.

How to Serve Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

Once your cheesecake lasagna has chilled, it’s time to serve it up! Here’s how to get the perfect slice:

• Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, and make sure to wipe the knife between cuts to keep the layers neat.
• A flat spatula or pie server will help lift the slices without disturbing the layers too much.
• Serve the dessert cold, straight from the fridge, for the best texture.

Presentation Ideas for Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

• Individual Servings: For a fancier presentation, consider making individual portions by layering the ingredients in small glass jars or dessert cups. These make for beautiful single-serving treats.
• Layered Parfaits: If you want to create a twist on this dessert, try layering the ingredients in parfait glasses for a more elegant presentation.

Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Plan Ahead: Make this dessert the night before so it has enough time to set properly.
• Use Cold Ingredients: Cold cream whips up faster and holds its shape better, so ensure your whipping cream is cold before starting.
• Don’t Rush the Layers: Take your time to evenly spread each layer for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, it’s best to make this dessert the night before serving so the layers have time to firm up.

How Long Does Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Last in the Fridge?

It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Can I Freeze Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the whipped cream and strawberries may change after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh.

Conclusion

This Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham cracker layers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Be sure to follow the tips and instructions above to make it perfectly every time. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds!

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