Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe

Dreamy Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe for Summer

Sweet summer memories dance through my strawberry cheesecake lasagna, a dessert that blends creamy indulgence with playful texture.

Layers of silky mascarpone and graham cracker crumbs create a symphony of delightful contrasts.

Ripe strawberries weave their bright magic between soft, cloud-like cream cheese mixtures.

Each forkful promises a gentle explosion of fruity richness and smooth decadence.

Guests will marvel at this elegant yet approachable dessert that feels like a delicious secret.

No complicated techniques stand between you and this dreamy creation.

Gather your ingredients and let’s craft something extraordinary that will spark pure joy around the table.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but thaw and drain them completely to prevent excess moisture that could make the dessert watery.

  • Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a gluten-free crust.

  • How do I prevent the strawberries from becoming too soft?

Pat the strawberry slices dry with paper towels before layering to remove excess moisture and keep them firm.

  • Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

You can make this cheesecake lasagna up to 2 days ahead and keep it refrigerated, which actually helps the flavors meld together better.

Why Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Is Unique

  • Craft Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress friends and family with a stunning layered strawberry cheesecake that looks professionally made but requires minimal cooking skills.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap strawberries for other seasonal fruits or add chocolate drizzle to make this dessert uniquely yours, perfect for personalizing flavors.
  • No-Bake Wonder: Skip the oven and create a cool, refreshing dessert that saves kitchen time and keeps your space comfortable during warm days.
  • Stress-Free Entertaining: Prepare this show-stopping dessert in advance, allowing you to relax and enjoy gathering with guests without last-minute kitchen stress.

Ingredients for Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

Base Layer:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that adds a sweet and crunchy foundation to the dessert.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crumbs together and creates a rich, golden crust.
Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth, tangy base for the creamy layer of the dessert.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.
  • Whipped Topping: Creates a light and fluffy texture in the cheesecake mixture.
Fruit Layer:
  • Strawberries: Fresh, juicy berries that add a vibrant color and natural sweetness to the dessert.

How to Prepare Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

Step 1: Create Crumbly Crust Base

Grab graham crackers and crush them into fine crumbs. Melt butter in a pan and mix thoroughly with the crumbs.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, creating an even, compact layer that will serve as the foundation for your delightful dessert.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Grab cream cheese and let it soften at room temperature.

Beat the cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth. Add:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture is completely free of lumps.

Gently fold in whipped topping, creating a light and airy texture that will make your dessert irresistibly creamy.

Step 3: Layer First Cheesecake Portion

Spread half of the prepared cheesecake mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.

Use a spatula to ensure a smooth, consistent layer that covers the entire surface.

Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberry Layer

Wash and slice fresh strawberries.

Arrange the strawberry slices in a single, beautiful layer over the first cheesecake mixture. The vibrant red color will create a stunning visual contrast against the creamy white filling.

Step 5: Complete Final Cheesecake Layer

Carefully spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the strawberry layer. Use gentle motions to cover the strawberries completely without disturbing their arrangement.

Step 6: Garnish and Chill

Top the dessert with additional fresh strawberry slices for extra decoration. Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours.

This resting time allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the cheesecake lasagna from the refrigerator.

Cut into squares and serve chilled. Each bite will offer a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and crispy graham cracker crust.

Tips for Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Success

  • Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Freeze extra strawberry slices beforehand to keep the dessert chilled and enhance the fruity flavor.
  • Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to reduce calories without compromising the creamy texture.
  • Create a no-bake option by chilling the layers instead of baking, perfect for warm summer days.
  • Elevate presentation by arranging strawberry slices in a decorative pattern on top for an Instagram-worthy dessert.

Creative Twists on Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

  • Berry Medley Swap: Replace strawberries with mixed berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful fruit fusion.
  • No-Bake Chocolate Remix: Substitute graham crackers with chocolate cookie crumbs and add cocoa powder to the cheesecake mixture for a rich chocolate version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham cracker alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies to create a celiac-friendly dessert.
  • Vegan Cream Cheese Adaptation: Replace dairy cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and use coconut whipped topping for a plant-based alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

  • Sweet Summer Picnic Delight: Pack this chilled dessert in individual mason jars for a portable treat perfect for outdoor gatherings and family picnics.
  • Romantic Date Night Dessert: Serve on elegant plates with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a mint leaf garnish, creating a restaurant-quality presentation for a special evening.
  • Brunch Showstopper: Cut into small squares and arrange on a beautiful platter with fresh mint sprigs, making it an eye-catching addition to a weekend brunch spread with friends.
  • Kid-Friendly Dessert Station: Let children help decorate their own slice with extra strawberry slices, whipped cream, and sprinkles for a fun, interactive dessert experience.

Storage Advice for Layered Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cheesecake lasagna to prevent air exposure and minimize potential freezer burn.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the dessert cold and preserving its creamy texture and fruity flavor.
  • Freeze individual slices or the entire dish for up to 2 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
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Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe

Creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna Recipe


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4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Strawberry cheesecake lasagna combines creamy layers of dessert magic from Italian and American culinary traditions. Rich graham cracker base, velvety cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry compote create a luscious treat you’ll savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted (113 grams)

Cream Cheese Mixture Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar (200 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Fruit Topping Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 package strawberry gelatin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend thoroughly with melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
  2. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, creating a compact base layer.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating sugar and vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a light and airy consistency without deflating the mixture.
  5. Carefully spread half of the creamy cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust, creating an even, smooth layer.
  6. Arrange a vibrant layer of fresh, thinly sliced strawberries across the first cheesecake layer, covering the entire surface.
  7. Pour the remaining cheesecake mixture over the strawberry layer, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even finish.
  8. Decorate the top of the dessert with additional sliced strawberries, creating an attractive and appetizing presentation.
  9. Refrigerate the dessert for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
  10. Remove from the refrigerator 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance the texture.

Notes

  • Make the crust extra crispy by toasting graham cracker crumbs in the oven for a few minutes before mixing with butter.
  • For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to reduce calories while maintaining great flavor.
  • Macerate strawberries with a bit of sugar beforehand to intensify their sweetness and create a more concentrated fruit layer.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smoother, lump-free filling that blends perfectly with whipped topping.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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