If you’re searching for a show-stopping, no-bake dessert that will make everyone at the table swoon, Strawberry Lasagna is your new best friend. This dreamy treat layers a buttery vanilla wafer crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious strawberry topping bursting with real fruit flavor. The contrasting textures and vibrant colors make every bite a celebration — whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or just brightening up a weeknight. Trust me, there’s a reason Strawberry Lasagna vanishes in seconds wherever it goes!

Strawberry Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Strawberry Lasagna is that it’s built from simple, familiar ingredients, each playing a key role in the dessert’s irresistible taste and stunning presentation. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why it matters.

Vanilla wafers (crushed): These cookies form the buttery, golden base, giving the dessert a satisfying crunch and a hint of nostalgia.
Melted butter: Helps bind the cookie crumbs together into a sturdy, flavorful crust that holds up under all those luscious layers.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, its tangy richness balances the sweetness and adds a silky texture.
Powdered sugar: Blends smoothly into the cream cheese, sweetening the filling without any grittiness.
Sour cream: Adds a touch of tartness and a creamy, smooth consistency to the cheesecake layer.
Whipped topping: Lightens up both the cheesecake and strawberry layers, making each bite fluffy and easy to slice.
Strawberry gelatin: Delivers that classic, vibrant strawberry flavor and color in the top layer.
Boiling water: Essential for dissolving the gelatin completely and ensuring a smooth, set finish.
Ice cubes: Quickly cool the gelatin mixture, so it’s ready to combine with the creamy elements without melting them.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel to the strawberry layer.
Fresh strawberries: Bring juicy bursts of real fruit flavor and a pop of bright color to the top layer.

How to Make Strawberry Lasagna

Step 1: Build the Cookie Crust

Start by crushing your vanilla wafers into fine crumbs. This can be done in a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and giving them a good roll with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until every bit is moistened, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will set the stage for your Strawberry Lasagna, so take your time to make sure the crust is even and compact.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy and smooth. Add powdered sugar, blending until no lumps remain, then mix in the sour cream for a subtle tang. Gently fold in the whipped topping, being careful not to deflate it. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chilled crust. This cheesecake layer is what gives Strawberry Lasagna its rich, velvety heart.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Layer

Dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. To quickly cool the mixture, add a handful of ice cubes and stir until they melt. Once the gelatin is cool but not set, stir in the heavy cream and more whipped topping for a mousse-like texture. Gently fold in plenty of fresh diced strawberries, then spread this beautiful pink layer over the cheesecake layer. This is where the Strawberry Lasagna truly comes alive with color and summery flavor!

Step 4: Chill Until Set

Pop the entire dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for 4 to 6 hours, or until the layers are firm and sliceable. The wait is worth it — this resting time allows all the flavors to meld and the Strawberry Lasagna to set to the perfect consistency. Top with extra whipped cream and a few more fresh strawberries right before serving for that irresistible bakery-worthy finish.

How to Serve Strawberry Lasagna

Garnishes

A flourish of garnishes makes this Strawberry Lasagna extra special. Pile on swirls of whipped cream, scatter a few sliced strawberries, or even add a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers for a pretty, textured finish. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprig of fresh mint adds a lovely pop of green and a hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

Since Strawberry Lasagna is rich and sweet, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp fruit salad or a refreshing citrus sorbet. If you’re serving it after a meal, a cup of hot coffee or a glass of sparkling lemonade balances everything out and lets those strawberry flavors shine.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, try assembling your Strawberry Lasagna in individual parfait glasses or mason jars — perfect for parties or picnics. You can also cut it into neat squares and serve on a platter with colorful dessert forks. A drizzle of chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar adds even more wow-factor to every slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Strawberry Lasagna tightly covered in the refrigerator. The layers will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or special occasions. The flavors only get better as they meld together overnight!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Strawberry Lasagna if you want to get ahead of your entertaining game. Slice it into portions, wrap each one well, and freeze for up to a month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving — the texture may be slightly softer, but it will still taste wonderful.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Strawberry Lasagna since it’s designed to be served cold. If it’s been frozen, simply let it thaw gently in the refrigerator. For the best texture, avoid microwaving or exposing it to heat, as this can cause the layers to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While vanilla wafers are classic, graham crackers or even shortbread cookies make fantastic alternatives. Just be sure to crush them finely and use the same amount of melted butter to help them hold together.

Can I make Strawberry Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it’s even better when made in advance! Assembling Strawberry Lasagna the night before lets the flavors meld and the layers set perfectly. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

Do I have to use whipped topping, or can I use homemade whipped cream?

You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping if you prefer. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in equal amounts. Homemade cream will give the dessert an extra-rich, fresh flavor.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing together?

Make sure each layer is spread gently and evenly. It helps to chill the crust and cheesecake layer for 10–15 minutes before adding the strawberry layer. Using a spatula to carefully smooth each layer ensures those beautiful, distinct stripes in your Strawberry Lasagna.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, but be sure to thaw and drain them very well to avoid excess moisture. For the brightest color and flavor, fresh strawberries are always best, especially for garnishing the top of your Strawberry Lasagna.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dessert that dazzles with every bite, Strawberry Lasagna is the perfect choice. It’s fun to make, spectacular to serve, and irresistible to eat. Give it a try — I promise it’ll become a beloved favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Strawberry Lasagna Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Strawberry Lasagna is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a luscious strawberry gelatin topping with fresh strawberries. Perfectly chilled and topped with whipped cream, this dessert combines textures and flavors for a refreshing treat ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Crust:

2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
6 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

For the Strawberry Layer:

2 (3 oz) packages strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
2 cups boiling water
1 cup ice cubes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

For Garnish:

Whipped cream
Fresh strawberries

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Instructions

Make the crust: Crush vanilla wafers finely and combine them with melted butter. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer. Chill slightly to set if desired.
Prepare the cheesecake layer: Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the sour cream until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain the airy texture. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
Create the strawberry layer: Dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in boiling water. Once fully dissolved, add ice cubes to cool the mixture quickly, stirring occasionally. When cooled but still liquid, stir in the heavy cream and whipped topping until blended. Fold in the sliced fresh strawberries. Spread this strawberry gelatin mixture gently over the cheesecake layer.
Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for 4 to 6 hours or until the strawberry layer is set completely. Before serving, top with additional whipped cream and garnish with fresh strawberries for an appealing presentation.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the best creamy texture.
Ensure the strawberry gelatin layer is cooled before adding heavy cream to prevent curdling.
The dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
Variations can include raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries.
For a lighter version, substitute whipped topping with whipped coconut cream to make it dairy-free, though texture will vary.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake, refrigeration
Cuisine: American