Name: No-Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 package strawberry Jello (3 oz) (Dissolve as package directs); 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced, washed and hulled); 1 package graham crackers (about 9–12 full-size crackers, broken as needed); 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 1 cup whipped cream (cool whip or freshly whipped heavy cream); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted if lumpy)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, fruity, and impossibly easy, this No-Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna is a summer showstopper that comes together in minutes and tastes like a layered dream. Imagine pillowy cream cheese filling, bright strawberry Jello studded with fresh berries, and crunchy graham cracker layers — all without turning on the oven. Fun fact: layered no-bake desserts became wildly popular in the 1970s when convenience met creativity in the home kitchen, and this version is a nostalgic nod to that era with a modern twist. If you love simple, crowd-pleasing sweets, this one rivals other no-bake favorites like my cannoli cream pie — check it out here for another effortless dessert idea: https://recipesfiber.com/cannoli-cream-pie-no-bake-dessert-dream/. Try it for potlucks, picnics, or a quick family dessert that feels special without the fuss.

What is No-Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna?

What’s in a name? Why call it a lasagna when it’s a dessert? Think of the playful layers — crackers instead of pasta, creamy filling instead of béchamel, and a fruity Jello “sauce” on top. Curious, right? Did someone glance at a layered dish and say, “Lasagna!” and the name stuck? Possibly. Some dishes get charmingly literal names because they remind us of something familiar. And let’s be honest, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who could resist a slice of this sweet, layered goodness? Give it a try and see if the name makes you smile as you dig in.

Why You’ll Love This:

This dessert wins hearts for three big reasons:

Layered, creamy goodness: The contrast between smooth cream cheese filling and jiggly strawberry Jello with fresh berries creates an irresistible texture combo that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Wallet-friendly and quick: You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive ingredients — store-bought Jello, a box of graham crackers, and a few simple dairy items make a dessert that tastes premium for very little cost.
Flavor and garnish options: Top with extra sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of chocolate for extra flair and flavor.

If you enjoy other no-bake treats on the blog, this is an easy next stop after that delightful cannoli cream pie recipe: https://recipesfiber.com/cannoli-cream-pie-no-bake-dessert-dream/. Ready to make something delicious? Let’s go.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is a breeze: no baking, minimal hands-on time, and a short chill for setting. You’ll love the creamy middle layer and the bright, juicy strawberry top. Prep time is about 15–20 minutes and chilling time is roughly 2 hours. The standout element is the contrast between crisp graham cracker layers and the silky cream-cheese-whipped filling — it feels decadent but is so simple.

Ingredients

1 package strawberry Jello (3 oz), dissolve as package directs
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (washed and hulled)
1 package graham crackers (about 9–12 full-size crackers, broken as needed)
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup whipped cream (cool whip or freshly whipped heavy cream)
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy

Directions

Prepare the Jello: Boil the amount of water indicated on the Jello package. Dissolve the strawberry Jello powder in the boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly for a few minutes, then stir in 1 cup of the sliced fresh strawberries. Place the Jello mixture in the refrigerator and chill until it begins to thicken but is not fully firm (about 20–30 minutes) so it’s easy to layer.
Make the cream layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps. Add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light, airy, and smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Layer the lasagna: In an 8×8 or similar dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom (break crackers as needed to fit). Spread about one-third of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crackers. Pour about one-third of the chilled but slightly thickened Jello over the cream layer and spread gently. Repeat: add a second layer of graham crackers, another third of the cream mixture, then another third of the Jello. Finish with a final layer of graham crackers and the remaining cream mixture on top. Press gently so layers settle.
Top and chill: After the final cream layer, spoon any remaining sliced strawberries on top for garnish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. For best slices, chill 3–4 hours.
Serve: Slice into squares using a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean edges. Serve chilled and enjoy.

No-Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna

What to Serve With:

Fresh fruit salad for a light counterpoint to the sweet layers.
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette if serving after a rich meal.
Coffee or iced tea for a refreshing beverage contrast.
Vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent bite.

Top Tips for Perfecting:

Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cream layer.
Chill Jello until slightly thickened before layering; that prevents the crackers from getting soggy.
If you don’t have fresh strawberries, thawed frozen berries work, but drain excess liquid first.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Avoid over-soaking the graham crackers; brief contact with the Jello is enough to soften them slightly without turning mushy.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture is best within the first 48 hours.
Freezing: Not recommended — freezing alters the texture of the cream layer and Jello.
Reheating: This is best served cold; do not heat. If the dessert becomes too firm from chilling, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dessert a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. It actually firms up and slices more cleanly after longer chilling, up to 24–48 hours.

Can I use flavored or sugar-free Jello?
Yes. Flavored Jello will change the taste, and sugar-free Jello can be used to reduce calories, but taste may be slightly different. Adjust powdered sugar in the cream layer to taste.

What if my cream cheese mixture is lumpy?
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and scrape the bowl often to eliminate lumps.

Can I swap the graham crackers for cookies?
Absolutely. Vanilla wafers or crushed shortbread make tasty alternatives. If using crushed cookies, press a firm crust and adjust layering.

How do I get neat slices?
Chill thoroughly, use a sharp knife, and wipe the blade between cuts. Let the dish sit at room temperature 10 minutes before slicing if it’s too firm.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna is proof that memorable desserts don’t need hours or complicated techniques — just a few thoughtful layers and a short chill. It’s family-friendly, budget-smart, and perfect for summer gatherings or last-minute entertaining. If you want variations or inspiration from similar fan favorites, check out this creative take on the dessert at No Bake Strawberry Jello Lasagna- Strawberry Cheesecake … (https://omgchocolatedesserts.com/no-bake-strawberry-jello-lasagna/) and for another layered strawberry treat, see No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lasagna – Sugar Apron (https://sugarapron.com/2018/05/14/no-bake-strawberry-cheesecake-lasagna/). Give it a try, share a slice, and enjoy the smiles it brings.