Description
This creamy, fruity, no-bake dessert is what strawberry dreams are made of! With layers of vanilla wafer crust, tangy cheesecake filling, and fluffy strawberry mousse, every bite is light, cool, and loaded with sweet berry flavor. Topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, it’s perfect for spring parties, Easter brunch, or a simple treat to beat the heat. Chill it, slice it, and watch it disappear!
Ingredients
Crust Layer:
• 2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
• ½ cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layer:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
Strawberry Layer:
• 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin
• ½ cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold heavy cream
• 1 cup chopped strawberries
Topping:
• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
• Fresh strawberries, halved or sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Crust:
Combine vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press evenly into a 9×13-inch dish. Chill for 15 minutes to firm.
2️⃣ Cheesecake Filling:
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread evenly over the crust.
3️⃣ Strawberry Layer:
Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in cold cream, then fold in chopped strawberries. Chill for 10 minutes, then spread over cheesecake layer.
4️⃣ Chill:
Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture.
5️⃣ Top & Garnish:
Spread remaining Cool Whip on top. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices. Slice and serve chilled!
Notes
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Chill Time is Key: For the cleanest layers and best texture, refrigerate your Strawberry Lasagna for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
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Use Full-Fat Ingredients: To maintain structure and creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream. Low-fat versions may lead to runny or soft layers.
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Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and presentation. If using frozen strawberries, thaw completely and drain well to prevent excess moisture.
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Make it Ahead: This is a perfect make-ahead dessert for brunches, BBQs, birthdays, or potlucks. Just add fresh toppings before serving.
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Easy Customizations:
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Swap vanilla wafers with crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or shortbread cookies.
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Add a drizzle of white chocolate or strawberry syrup on top for an elegant finish.
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Make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free cookies.
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Serving Tip: Use a hot knife (dip in warm water and wipe clean between cuts) for smooth, bakery-style slices.
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Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 days. This dessert is not freezer-friendly as freezing can alter the texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Refrigerated
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of 9×13 pan)
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Strawberry Recipes · No-Bake Desserts · Layered Cream Desserts · Summer Treat Ideas · Spring Potluck Recipes · Vanilla Wafer Crust · Cheesecake-Inspired Treats · Chilled Dessert Bars · Cool Whip Recipes · Easy Family Desserts