Summer Berry Lasagna
Summer Berry Lasagna: A Delicious & Easy Dessert Recipe
Picture this: the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and nothing sounds better than a cool, refreshing dessert to enjoy with friends and family. If this paints the perfect picture for you, then let me introduce you to a heavenly creation that deserves a spot on your summer tableโthe Summer Berry Lasagna! This delightful dessert will not only tantalize your taste buds but also become the star of your gatherings. With layers of creamy goodness, fresh berries, and a hint of nostalgia, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds, thirds, or even fourths!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why you should try your hand at this sumptuous Summer Berry Lasagna:
- Itโs a no-bake dessert, making it perfect for those hot summer days when you want something sweet without heating up the kitchen.
- The combination of light, fluffy cream cheese filling and the tart sweetness of berries creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
- It’s a versatile treat that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more quality time with loved ones.
If youโre searching for the perfect summer dessert to impress your guests, look no further than this berry-filled delight.
Easy Method for Summer Berry Lasagna
Creating this Summer Berry Lasagna is as simple as it is delicious. With just a few straightforward steps, youโll have a stunning and mouthwatering dessert ready to impress everyone around your table. Here’s how to whip up this exquisite treat!
Step 1: Prepare the Berry Sauce
Start by adding a burst of flavor with your berry topping. In a medium saucepan, combine four cups of your choice of mixed berriesโthink strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberriesโand toss in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar alongside a tablespoon of lemon juice for that zesty kick.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Take a moment to stir occasionally as you relish the beautiful colors transforming before your eyes. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the berries become soft and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remember to keep an eye out to prevent sticking or burning!
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
In order to achieve that perfect consistency for your berry sauce, youโll want to incorporate a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of cornstarch and two tablespoons of water until smooth. Once your berry mixture has simmered adequately, pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens within 1-2 minutes. When itโs ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
While your berry sauce is cooling, letโs turn our attention to the creamy goodness that will layer within this delightful dessert. Ensure your 16 ounces of cream cheese is softened to room temperature. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until itโs smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate one cup of powdered sugar, ensuring it mixes well with the cream cheese until fully combined.
Next, add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for a hint of aromatic sweetness. To elevate the creaminess further, gently fold in 8 ounces of thawed whipped topping. Make sure to handle this step with care, as we want our mixture to remain airy and light.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Now that both your berry sauce and cream cheese filling are ready, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish. Here comes the fun part! If you prefer a softer texture in your wafers, take about 20-24 vanilla wafers or graham crackers and quickly dip each piece in milk or juice for a few moments.
Lay a single layer of the wafers (or graham crackers) on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, spread half of the cream cheese filling evenly over this layer, savoring the thought of how delicious this dessert will be!
Now, spoon half of your cooled berry sauce over the cream cheese filling, taking care to spread it evenly for a perfect blend of flavors. Follow this with another layer of the vanilla wafers and then the remaining cream cheese filling, spreading it smoothly once more.
Top it off with the remainder of the berry sauce, spreading it generously. Cover the whole dish with plastic wrap and slide it into the refrigerator, allowing it to chill for a minimum of 4 hours (preferably overnight) so that all the flavors can meld perfectly together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, give your Summer Berry Lasagna an aesthetically pleasing touch! Garnish with fresh berries, a sprinkle of mint leaves, and optionally, a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair. When itโs time to serve, cut it into squares and enjoy the chilled, creamy goodness among friends and family.
Storage Tips for Summer Berry Lasagna
To ensure your leftover Summer Berry Lasagna remains delicious:
- Refrigerate for 3โ4 days at 40ยฐF (4ยฐC).
- For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Just remember to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- Save your garnishes until serving time to keep everything fresh and appetizing.
How to Serve Summer Berry Lasagna
This delightful dessert can be served in many creative ways. Here are some options to consider:
- Family Style: Place the entire baking dish on the table and let everyone dig in. This relaxing, communal approach adds to the ambiance of summer gatherings.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual dessert cups or glasses for personal servings that guests can easily enjoy.
- Add a Side: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or scoop of lemon sorbet to add a tangy twist that complements the berry flavors.
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine to enhance the refreshingly sweet experience.
Tips to Make Summer Berry Lasagna
- Berry Mix-Up: Feel free to experiment with different types of berries based on whatโs in season or whatever is in your fridge.
- Cream Cheese Alternative: If you want a lighter version, you could opt for a low-fat cream cheese to lower the calories.
- Texture Variety: Include layers of crushed nuts or a sprinkle of granola to add an extra crunch.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re eager to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Different Cookies: Swap out vanilla wafers for chocolate wafers or graham cracker crumbs sprinkled between layers for a chocolate twist.
- Flavored Cream Cheese: Opt for flavored cream cheeseโlike strawberry or lemonโto add an exciting depth of flavor that complements the berry layers.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! This lasagna is perfect for making a day in advance. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Q: Can I substitute the whipped topping?
A: Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream in place of store-bought whipped topping for a more natural flavor.
Q: What if I have leftover berry sauce?
- Use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
- Swirl it into smoothies for an extra berry boost.
- Live dangerously and eat it straight off the spoon!
What to Serve With Summer Berry Lasagna
To elevate your summer dessert experience, consider serving the Summer Berry Lasagna alongside:
- Freshly brewed iced coffee or tea to create a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness.
- A fruit salad made with summer fruits for a light and colorful addition.
- A chocolate dessert sauce for drizzling over the top for chocolate lovers.
Nutritional Info
Hereโs a brief look at the nutritional content per serving based on this recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 20g
While enjoying this dessert, keep in mind that moderation is key, especially if you are tracking your nutritional intake. Itโs all about balance!
With its decadent layers and wonderful array of berries, the Summer Berry Lasagna is guaranteed to be a hit this season. Happy baking and enjoy the blissful bites that come with every sweet layer!
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Summer Berry Lasagna
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing no-bake dessert perfect for summer, featuring creamy layers and fresh berries.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 20–24 vanilla wafers or graham crackers
- Milk or juice (for dipping)
- Fresh berries and mint leaves for garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Pour into berry mixture, stirring until thickened, then remove from heat and cool.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then fold in whipped topping.
- Layer vanilla wafers in a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by half the cream cheese filling, then half the berry sauce. Repeat layers, topping with remaining berry sauce.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
This dessert can be made ahead of time, and leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: summer dessert, berry lasagna, no-bake dessert, refreshing dessert, creamy dessert






