Strawberry Lasagna Trifle

Introduction

This Strawberry Lasagna Trifle is a spectacular, no-bake dessert that layers the nostalgic flavors of strawberry Jell-O, graham crackers, and a luscious cream cheese filling. You’ll love how it mimics the layered look of a lasagna in a stunning trifle dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to put together.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes (setting time)

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling)

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 3 oz strawberry gelatin
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup ice water
• 14.4 oz graham crackers (1 whole box)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 24 oz Cool Whip (3 – 8 oz containers, thawed)
• 4 cups strawberries (chopped, plus more for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in the 1/2 cup of boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes. Stir in the 1/2 cup of ice water until well combined. Let the gelatin mixture sit at room temperature for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s slightly thickened to a syrupy consistency.
2. While the gelatin sets, prepare the crust. In a food processor or a sealed plastic bag, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Transfer crumbs to a bowl and mix with the melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 16 oz (2 of the 8 oz containers) of the Cool Whip until the mixture is uniform and no streaks remain.
4. To assemble the trifle, press a portion of the graham cracker mixture into an even layer at the bottom of a large trifle dish (about 4-5 quarts).
5. Spoon and spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the crumb layer.
6. Arrange half of the chopped strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
7. Carefully spoon the slightly thickened gelatin over the strawberry layer, trying to distribute it evenly.
8. Repeat the layers: add another layer of graham cracker crumbs, the remaining cream cheese mixture, and the remaining chopped strawberries.
9. Top the final layer with the remaining 8 oz container of Cool Whip. Garnish with additional strawberry slices.
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to fully set. Serve chilled.

Variations

• Individual Servings: Layer the ingredients in clear glasses or mason jars for easy, portable single servings.
• Cookie Swap: Instead of the graham cracker crumb layer, use coarsely crushed vanilla wafers or Biscoff cookies for a different flavor base.
• Jelly Instead of Gelatin: Skip steps for preparing the gelatin and use a thick layer of high-quality strawberry jam or preserves for a simpler, quicker option.
• Citrus Twist: Follow the same method but swap strawberry gelatin for raspberry or orange, and use corresponding fresh berries or mandarin oranges.

Tips for Success

• For perfect layering, spread each layer gently to the edges of the dish to create clean, visible lines.
• Allow the gelatin to thicken slightly (like egg whites) before pouring to prevent it from seeping into the cream cheese layer.
• Ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Use a trifle dish with straight sides to best showcase the beautiful “lasagna” layers.

Storage & Reheating

Store the trifle, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert does not freeze or reheat well; it is meant to be served chilled. The graham cracker base will soften over time.

FAQ

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use an equal volume of stabilized whipped cream. The Cool Whip helps maintain structure over several days, so homemade may soften a bit faster.

Why is my gelatin layer runny?

You likely did not let it cool and thicken enough before assembling. It should be the consistency of thin syrup before pouring.

My cream cheese filling is lumpy. How can I fix it?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened. If lumps remain, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar alone for longer before folding in the Cool Whip.

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Absolutely! Making it a day ahead is ideal, as it gives the layers ample time to set and the flavors to meld.

What can I do if I don’t have a trifle dish?

A large, deep glass bowl or a 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly. In a baking dish, you will simply serve it as bars rather than scooping from a trifle.

Do I have to use the ice water?

Yes, the ice water rapidly cools the gelatin so it doesn’t stay hot for long, which is crucial for food safety and for achieving the right texture for layering.