Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, packed with layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, look no further! This Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a show-stopping, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s light, fruity, and incredibly refreshing, combining the flavors of sweet strawberries and rich, creamy cheesecake, all sitting atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you're making it for a potluck, a family gathering, or just a fun dessert for yourself, this dessert is sure to impress!

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What is Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna?

Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a no-bake layered dessert that alternates between a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layers, and fresh strawberries. The "lasagna" layers are created by repeating these components, making it look like a layered lasagna but with delicious, sweet ingredients. This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy graham crackers, and fresh strawberries, all without the hassle of turning on the oven!

Ingredients List for Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: 2 cups (about 14 graham crackers, crushed)
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream Cheese: 16 oz (2 blocks), softened to room temperature
• Powdered Sugar: ¾ cup
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup (or use Cool Whip for a shortcut)

For the Strawberry Layer:

• Fresh Strawberries: 2 cups, hulled and sliced
• Strawberry Gelatin (Jell-O): 1 package (3 oz)
• Boiling Water: 1 cup
• Cold Water: ½ cup

For the Whipped Topping (Optional):

• Whipped Cream: 1 cup (or additional Cool Whip for topping)
• Fresh Strawberries: For garnish

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily adjust it based on your preferences:

• Graham Cracker Crust: Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or Oreos for a different crust flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free dessert.
• Add More Fruit: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries in the strawberry layer for a mixed berry version.
• Cool Whip Shortcut: If you’re short on time, substitute the homemade whipped cream with store-bought Cool Whip for an easier version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna:

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Prepare the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

1. Press the Crust:

• Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down tightly.

1. Chill the Crust:

• Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat the Cream Cheese:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Add the Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:

• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.

1. Whip the Cream:

• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. If you’re using Cool Whip, you can skip this step.

1. Fold the Whipped Cream into the Cream Cheese:

• Gently fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, making sure not to deflate the cream. The mixture should be light and airy.

1. Spread the Cheesecake Layer:

• Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the dish back in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the strawberry layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

1. Make the Strawberry Gelatin:

• In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin (Jell-O) in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Add ½ cup of cold water and stir to combine.

1. Chill the Gelatin:

• Let the gelatin mixture cool for about 10-15 minutes, just until it begins to thicken slightly but is still pourable.

1. Arrange the Strawberries:

• Place an even layer of sliced strawberries over the cheesecake layer.

1. Pour the Gelatin Over the Strawberries:

• Carefully pour the slightly thickened gelatin over the strawberries, making sure they are evenly coated and the gelatin fills in the gaps between the slices.

1. Chill the Dessert:

• Place the dish back in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping (Optional)

1. Top with Whipped Cream:

• Once the dessert is fully set, spread an even layer of whipped cream (or Cool Whip) over the top of the strawberry layer.

1. Garnish with Strawberries:

• Garnish the top with additional fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish.

1. Chill Until Ready to Serve:

• Refrigerate the layered strawberry cheesecake lasagna until you’re ready to serve.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps for making this luscious dessert:

1. Step 1: Make and press the graham cracker crust, then chill it.
2. Step 2: Prepare the cheesecake layer, spread it over the crust, and chill.
3. Step 3: Make the strawberry gelatin, arrange the strawberries, and pour the gelatin over the strawberries.
4. Step 4: Let the dessert chill and set, then top with whipped cream and garnish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Chilling Long Enough: Make sure to allow each layer to chill fully before adding the next one. This will prevent the layers from mixing and help the lasagna set properly.
• Skipping the Cooling Time for Gelatin: If the gelatin is too hot when poured over the strawberries, it can melt the cheesecake layer. Let it cool slightly before pouring it over the dessert.
• Overmixing the Whipped Cream: When folding the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, do it gently to keep the filling light and airy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Here are a few tips for serving and presentation:

• Serve in Squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into neat squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the cleanest slices.
• Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Add sliced or whole strawberries on top of the whipped cream for a colorful, fresh garnish.
• Top with Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

This no-bake dessert is perfect for a variety of occasions:

• For Potlucks and Parties: The layered presentation and ease of serving make it ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or any gathering.
• After-Dinner Dessert: Serve as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.
• Summer Dessert: With fresh strawberries and a chilled cheesecake filling, this dessert is perfect for warm summer days.

Presentation Ideas for Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

Make your dessert stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Serve in a Clear Glass Dish: Use a clear glass baking dish so the beautiful layers of graham cracker crust, cheesecake, strawberries, and whipped cream can be seen from the sides.
• Top with Whole Strawberries: Arrange whole strawberries along the edges of the dessert for a decorative touch.
• Sprinkle with Graham Cracker Crumbs: For extra texture and presentation, sprinkle some graham cracker crumbs on top of the whipped cream layer.

Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
• Chill Between Layers: Allow each layer to chill completely before adding the next for the best texture and presentation.
• Use Fresh, Firm Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are best for this dessert. Choose strawberries that are firm and sweet for the perfect flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare this dessert up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The graham cracker crust may soften slightly over time, but the dessert will still taste delicious.

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe because frozen strawberries release too much liquid as they thaw, which can make the dessert watery.

Q: Can I freeze this dessert?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the gelatin and cream cheese layers may not maintain their texture after thawing.

Conclusion

This Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna is a delicious and easy no-bake dessert that combines all the best flavors of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries. With its beautiful layers and refreshing taste, it's perfect for any occasion, from summer BBQs to holiday gatherings. Give this recipe a try and treat your family and friends to a luscious, fruit-filled dessert that’s sure to impress!

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