Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a delightful and colorful dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings and festive occasions. This no-bake treat features layers of graham cracker crust, blue cheesecake, berry-filled jello, and a whipped topping, all garnished with fresh berries and sprinkles. It’s a visually stunning and refreshing dessert that will impress your guests with both its taste and appearance.
Overview of the Recipe
This layered dessert combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy blue cheesecake layer, a fruity jello layer with fresh berries, and a light whipped topping. Each layer adds its own unique texture and flavor, making this dessert a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make ahead, making it an ideal choice for parties and potlucks.
Key Components:
- Graham Cracker Crust: Provides a sweet and crunchy base.
- Blue Cheesecake Layer: A creamy and colorful middle layer.
- Berry Jello Layer: Filled with fresh strawberries and blueberries, adding a fruity burst.
- Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, perfect for finishing the dessert.
History and Origin
Layered desserts have been popular in American cuisine for many years, with variations like icebox cakes and trifles. This Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a modern take on these classic desserts, combining elements of cheesecake, jello, and parfaits into one festive and eye-catching dish.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp colorful sprinkles
For the Blue Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- Blue food coloring
For the Berry Jello Layer:
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry jello
- 1 package (3 oz) raspberry jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles
- Fresh strawberries and blueberries for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and colorful sprinkles until well combined.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
- Refrigerate: Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Blue Cheesecake Layer
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Add Food Coloring: Add blue food coloring, a few drops at a time, until the desired shade is achieved.
- Spread Over Crust: Evenly spread the blue cheesecake mixture over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator to chill.
Step 3: Prepare the Jello
- Dissolve Jello: In two separate bowls, dissolve the strawberry jello and raspberry jello in 1 cup of boiling water each. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add Cold Water: Add 1 cup of cold water to each bowl of dissolved jello. Allow the jello to cool slightly.
Step 4: Add the Berries
- Mix Strawberries: Once the jello has cooled, mix the sliced strawberries into the strawberry jello.
- Mix Blueberries: Mix the blueberries into the raspberry jello.
- Layer Jello: Carefully spoon the berry jello mixtures over the blue cheesecake layer, spreading evenly. Refrigerate until the jello is set, about 2-3 hours.
Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream
- Spread Topping: Once the jello is fully set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the berry jello layer.
Step 6: Garnish
- Sprinkle Decoratively: Sprinkle the top with red, white, and blue sprinkles.
- Add Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries as desired.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: Chill the lasagna for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna!
Serving Size:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Summer Berry Jello Lasagna pairs well with:
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage complements the light and fruity dessert.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Enhance the berry flavors by serving with a side of mixed fresh fruits.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations of the Recipe
- Mixed Berry Jello Lasagna: Use a combination of different berry-flavored jellos and mixed fresh berries.
- Tropical Jello Lasagna: Substitute with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi, and use corresponding jello flavors.
- Chocolate Berry Jello Lasagna: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the crust and cheesecake layer for a chocolate twist.
Health Benefits and Notes
This dessert provides a balance of flavors and textures while being relatively light. Using fresh berries adds a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants. Opting for low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping can reduce the calorie content.
Health Tips:
- Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free jello and whipped topping to reduce the sugar content.
- Increase Fiber: Use whole-grain graham crackers for the crust to increase fiber intake.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use other types of berries?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any berries you like, such as raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of various berries.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Summer Berry Jello Lasagna?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the texture of the jello and whipped topping may change when thawed.
Conclusion
Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a vibrant and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings and patriotic holidays. With its layers of creamy blue cheesecake, fruity jello, and light whipped topping, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this no-bake dessert is sure to be a hit at your next event. Enjoy the taste of summer with this fun and festive treat!