Description

Have you ever dreamed of a dessert that looks like a flag and tastes like a creamy, fruity party? Say hello to The Best Patriotic Dessert Lasagna! This no-bake, layered treat is packed with red, white, and blue colors, making it perfect for 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any summer celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

A delicious The Best Patriotic Dessert Lasagna starts with simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for an 8×8-inch pan (serves 9-12):

Layer 1: Cookie Base:
- Nilla wafers (enough to line an 8×8 pan, about 20-25 cookies)
- Why it matters: Nilla wafers add a sweet, crunchy base that softens just right.
- Substitutions: Use graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or gluten-free vanilla cookies.
Layer 2: Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Why it matters: Cream cheese gives a rich, cheesecake-like flavor, balanced by whipped cream’s lightness.
- Substitutions: Use low-fat cream cheese or dairy-free cream cheese. Swap milk for almond or oat milk.
Layer 3: Strawberry Layer:
- 1 quart strawberries, chopped
- Why it matters: Fresh strawberries add juicy, red color and natural sweetness.
- Substitutions: Use raspberries or cherries for a similar red hue.
Layer 4: Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz.) package vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- Why it matters: Pudding adds a creamy, smooth layer with vanilla flavor.
- Substitutions: Use sugar-free pudding or cheesecake pudding mix. Try non-dairy milk.
Layer 5: Blueberry Layer:
- 1 cup blueberries
- Why it matters: Blueberries bring vibrant blue color and a burst of flavor.
- Substitutions: Use blackberries or frozen blueberries (thawed and drained).
Layer 6: Topping:
- 1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping, thawed
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles
- Why it matters: Whipped topping is light and fluffy, and sprinkles add festive flair.
- Substitutions: Make homemade whipped cream or use edible glitter for sparkle.

Tip: Use fresh, ripe berries for the best taste and color. Softened cream cheese blends smoothly, so leave it out for 30 minutes before starting.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Let’s make The Best Patriotic Dessert Lasagna with these easy steps. Follow along with tips to make it perfect!

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Base

Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan with Nilla wafers in a single layer, covering as much as possible (about 20-25 cookies).
- Tip: Break some cookies to fill gaps for a solid base.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 2 (8 oz.) packages softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp milk, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Gently fold in 1 cup whipped cream until creamy and spreadable.
Carefully spread this mixture over the Nilla wafers, using a spatula to make it even.
- Tip: Spread gently to avoid moving the cookies. Chill the pan for 10 minutes if the layer feels soft.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Layer

Chop 1 quart strawberries into small pieces.
Spread the strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Tip: Pat strawberries dry after chopping to prevent extra juice.

Step 4: Make the Pudding Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk 1 (3.4 oz.) vanilla instant pudding mix with 1 ½ cups milk until smooth and thickened (about 2 minutes).
Fold in 1 cup whipped cream until well combined.
Spread this pudding mixture over the strawberries, smoothing with a spatula.
- Tip: Work quickly as the pudding sets fast. Ensure an even layer for neat slices.

Step 5: Add the Blueberry Layer

Sprinkle 1 cup blueberries evenly over the pudding layer.
- Tip: Rinse and dry blueberries to keep the pudding layer clean.

Step 6: Top It Off

Spread the entire 8 oz. container of thawed whipped topping over the blueberries, creating a smooth, fluffy top.
Sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles over the whipped topping for a festive finish.
- Tip: Add sprinkles just before chilling to keep them vibrant.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
Slice into squares and serve cold.
- Tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts.