Description
Creamy layers of Southern comfort merge in this irresistible pecan pie lasagna, blending classic dessert traditions with innovative culinary creativity. Dessert enthusiasts will discover a rich, indulgent experience that seamlessly combines sweet pecans, smooth cream cheese, and buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
Scale
For the pecan filling:
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
- ⅓ cup (80 g) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups (180 g) chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese layer:
- 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) whipped topping
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the crust and topping:
- 2 cups (200 g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (480 ml) whipped topping
- ½ cup (60 g) whole or chopped pecans
Optional:
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Craft a sturdy foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into a rectangular baking dish. Refrigerate the crust for approximately 15 minutes to solidify its structure.
- Create a luxurious pecan essence by gently heating brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a saucepan until the sugar completely dissolves. Gradually incorporate beaten eggs, whisking consistently to prevent curdling. Simmer the mixture until it thickens, then remove from heat and infuse with vanilla extract and finely chopped pecans. Allow the filling to cool to ambient temperature.
- Whip cream cheese into a silky smooth consistency, incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Delicately fold in whipped topping until the mixture achieves a uniform texture.
- Meticulously layer the cooled pecan filling over the chilled graham cracker base, ensuring an even distribution. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture atop the pecan layer, creating a delicate barrier.
- Crown the dessert with a generous layer of whipped topping, transforming the surface into an elegant canvas. Scatter whole or roughly chopped pecans across the top and optionally drizzle with rich caramel sauce for added decadence.
- Seal the dessert and allow it to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, permitting the layers to meld and set. When ready, slice into precise portions and serve thoroughly chilled.
Notes
- Customize the crust by swapping graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
- Enhance the pecan filling’s depth by toasting pecans beforehand, which releases their natural oils and intensifies their rich, nutty flavor.
- Control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or using a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie version.
- Stabilize the cream cheese layer by ensuring cream cheese is at room temperature and thoroughly blending to prevent lumps, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 56 mg