Strawberry lasagna is one of those desserts that looks impressive but is incredibly simple to make. Each layer brings something special: the crunchy graham cracker base, the rich and tangy cheesecake layer, the fruity strawberry topping, and the fluffy whipped topping. It’s like a cross between strawberry shortcake and no-bake cheesecake—and YES, it’s as good as it sounds.
Why You’ll Love It
- No baking required
- Easy to prep ahead (and tastes even better chilled overnight!)
- Kid-friendly, party-perfect, and super Instagram-worthy
- Balanced sweetness with creamy, tangy, and fruity layers
- Naturally halal with simple pantry ingredients
Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: ~4.5 hours
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: ~330
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip or stabilized homemade whipped cream)
Strawberry Layer:
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup cold water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Topping:
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping
- Extra strawberries, for garnish
- Optional: White chocolate shavings or graham cracker crumbs
Want to make it extra lush? Use a combo of strawberries and sliced fresh bananas in the fruit layer!
How to Make Strawberry Lasagna
1. Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand.
- Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Chill in the fridge while you make the next layer.
2. Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix well.
- Fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
- Spread evenly over chilled crust and return to the fridge.
3. Make the Strawberry Layer
- In a bowl, dissolve Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add cold water and lemon juice (if using), then stir in chopped strawberries.
- Let cool for 15–20 minutes at room temp until slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Gently pour or spoon the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate until the Jell-O layer is fully set—about 4 hours or overnight.
4. Top & Serve
- Once set, spread the remaining whipped topping over the strawberry layer.
- Garnish with extra fresh strawberries and optional graham crumbs or white chocolate shavings.
- Slice and serve chilled!
Serving Suggestions
- With fresh mint leaves for color and freshness
- With a drizzle of strawberry syrup or a dollop of yogurt on the side
- As part of a dessert board alongside lemon bars, cookies, and mini cheesecakes
- Serve in cups or jars for individual portions—great for parties!
Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate crust: Use crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers
- Lemon twist: Use lemon Jell-O + fresh raspberries for a citrusy version
- Nutty version: Add chopped pecans to the crust
- Low-sugar: Use sugar-free Jell-O and light cream cheese/whipped topping
- Vegan/dairy-free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped topping, and check your Jell-O substitute
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Keep covered and chilled for up to 4 days
- Freezer: You can freeze it before adding the final whipped topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge and top just before serving
- Make-ahead: Best made the night before—flavors and texture improve!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes—just thaw and drain well before mixing into the Jell-O.
What’s the best cream cheese to use?
Full-fat block-style cream cheese works best for texture and flavor.
Is this halal?
Yes—just make sure your Jell-O is halal-certified or use a gelatin-free alternative like agar-agar.
Can I skip the Jell-O layer?
You can! Try macerated strawberries instead (just toss berries with sugar + lemon juice and let them sit until juicy).
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Lasagna is sweet, creamy, and totally show-stopping—the kind of dessert that’s guaranteed to impress without a lot of effort. Every bite is soft, fruity, and full of fresh flavor, and the layers just make it feel extra special.
