Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Patriotic Lasagna Dessert combines the best of both worlds—delicious flavors and a stunning presentation. The layers come together to form a treat that’s not only visually striking with its red, white, and blue theme but also incredibly refreshing. The crunchy chocolate cookie crust, smooth cheesecake filling, sweet strawberry gelatin, and juicy blueberries make every bite a perfect combination of textures and flavors. It’s a light and refreshing dessert ideal for any warm-weather celebration, especially if you’re looking for a show-stopping treat for a patriotic occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the White Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
For the Red Gelatin Layer:
- 1 package (3 oz) cherry or strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 cup chopped strawberries or halved cherries
For the Blueberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or thawed frozen)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons blueberry jam
For the Topping:
- 2–3 cups whipped topping
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles or star-shaped confetti
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Make the Crust: Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the White Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and beat until fluffy and fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping until no streaks remain. Spread half of this mixture evenly over the chilled crust and return to the refrigerator to chill while preparing the gelatin.
- Prepare the Red Gelatin Layer: In a separate bowl, dissolve the gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then mix in ½ cup cold water. Let the mixture cool slightly (do not let it set), then fold in the chopped strawberries or cherries. Carefully spoon or pour the gelatin mixture over the white cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the gelatin is nearly set but not fully firm.
- Add the Blueberries: Once the gelatin layer is partially set, evenly sprinkle the blueberries over the top. If using blueberry jam, swirl it gently into the gelatin to enhance the color and flavor.
- Add Second White Layer and Top Crust: Gently spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the blueberries, smoothing the surface. Top with the remaining chocolate cookie crumb mixture, lightly pressing it into place to form a second crust layer.
- Finish with Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top layer. Decorate with red, white, and blue sprinkles or star-shaped confetti for a festive finish. Chill the dessert for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results. Slice and serve cold.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–15 servings, depending on portion size
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Additional Time: 4 hours (for chilling)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Variations: Swap out the strawberries and blueberries for other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a different color palette.
- Add a Layer of Chocolate: Incorporate a layer of chocolate pudding or mousse between the cheesecake and gelatin layers for extra richness.
- Use a Different Crust: Instead of chocolate sandwich cookies, try using graham crackers, Oreos, or even a crushed pretzel crust for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the Patriotic Lasagna Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dessert, as the texture may change once thawed.
- Reheating: This is a cold dessert, so no reheating is needed. Simply serve chilled.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert needs to chill for at least 4 hours, so it’s perfect for preparing the day before your gathering. In fact, it’s even better when made a day ahead as the flavors have more time to set.
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Yes! You can use any flavor of gelatin you like. Raspberry, blueberry, or even lime gelatin can create different color combinations while keeping the dessert delicious.
Can I use a different type of whipped topping?
If you prefer, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Just be sure to stabilize it with a little powdered sugar to keep it firm.
How do I prevent the gelatin from setting too quickly?
Make sure the gelatin mixture is slightly cooled before pouring it over the cheesecake layer, as hot gelatin could cause the cheesecake layer to melt. Allow the gelatin to cool until it’s still pourable but not too warm before adding it.
How can I make this dessert even more festive?
You can decorate with additional festive elements like mini flags, edible glitter, or even small sugar stars to make it extra patriotic for events like the 4th of July.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes! You can use thawed frozen strawberries and blueberries. Just make sure to drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the dessert.
How do I know when the gelatin layer is ready?
The gelatin should be slightly firm but still a little wobbly. It should not be fully set yet when you add the blueberries. A slight chill will help hold the fruit in place.
Can I make this dessert with dairy-free ingredients?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping substitute to make this dessert dairy-free. For the crust, you can opt for dairy-free cookies and butter.
Can I skip the gelatin layer?
If you prefer, you can skip the gelatin layer and use fresh fruit to add texture. Layer the cheesecake filling with fresh strawberries and blueberries for a more simple, fruity version.
Can I add more layers?
Feel free to get creative! You can add an extra layer of gelatin, whipped cream, or even a layer of chocolate mousse for added richness.
Conclusion
Patriotic Lasagna Dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat for any holiday or special occasion. With its refreshing layers of creamy cheesecake, colorful gelatin, and fresh fruit, it’s both a stunning centerpiece and a delightful dessert. Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just looking for a fun and festive dessert, this dessert is sure to be the star of the show. Make it ahead, chill, and enjoy the perfect blend of flavor, color, and creativity!
Patriotic Lasagna Dessert Recipe
Patriotic Lasagna Dessert is a no-bake, visually stunning dessert that layers chocolate cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, red gelatin, fresh blueberries, and whipped topping. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, and 4th of July celebrations, combining refreshing flavors and vibrant colors in a show-stopping treat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1 package (3 oz) cherry or strawberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 cup chopped strawberries or halved cherries
1 cup fresh blueberries (or thawed frozen)
Optional: 2 tablespoons blueberry jam
2–3 cups whipped topping
Red, white, and blue sprinkles or star-shaped confetti
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the White Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and beat until fluffy and fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping until no streaks remain. Spread half of this mixture evenly over the chilled crust and return to the refrigerator to chill while preparing the gelatin.
- Prepare the Red Gelatin Layer: In a separate bowl, dissolve the gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then mix in ½ cup cold water. Let the mixture cool slightly (do not let it set), then fold in the chopped strawberries or cherries. Carefully spoon or pour the gelatin mixture over the white cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the gelatin is nearly set but not fully firm.
- Add the Blueberries: Once the gelatin layer is partially set, evenly sprinkle the blueberries over the top. If using blueberry jam, swirl it gently into the gelatin to enhance the color and flavor.
- Add Second White Layer and Top Crust: Gently spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the blueberries, smoothing the surface. Top with the remaining chocolate cookie crumb mixture, lightly pressing it into place to form a second crust layer.
- Finish with Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top layer. Decorate with red, white, and blue sprinkles or star-shaped confetti for a festive finish. Chill the dessert for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results. Slice and serve cold.
Notes
For a more simple version, you can skip the gelatin layer and just use fresh strawberries and blueberries.
If you prefer dairy-free, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping, and use dairy-free cookies and butter for the crust.
Make sure the gelatin is slightly cooled before adding it to the cheesecake layer to avoid melting the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
