Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness and texture contrasts. Over the years, I’ve learned that choosing fresh, high-quality pecans and a good caramel sauce makes all the difference. Whenever possible, I use homemade whipped cream or a good-quality store-bought alternative to keep things simple without sacrificing flavor.
- 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream, whipped
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 package graham crackers or thin ladyfinger cookies
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth
If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe a bit, swapping heavy cream for a lighter whipped topping works well. And if you’re short on time, pre-chopped pecans and store-bought caramel sauce can save you a bunch of effort without losing that homey vibe.
Instructions
- Begin by toasting the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth, then fold in the toasted pecans for that crunchy, caramelized layer.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream to create a light, fluffy filling.
- Grab a glass or ceramic dish and start layering: begin with a thin layer of the pecan-butter mixture, followed by a layer of graham crackers or ladyfingers.
- Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture over the crackers.
- Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the creamy layer, then repeat the layers, finishing with the pecan mixture on top for a beautiful crunch.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to soften perfectly.
- Before serving, garnish with a few whole pecans or a drizzle of caramel for an extra special touch.
One trick I learned from my mom’s kitchen is not to rush the chilling step. Allowing the layers to rest overnight really brings everything together and makes slicing a breeze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Pecan Pie Lasagna, recipe, cooking, food
