This bright and fun Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a treat for the eyes and taste buds! Layers of fluffy cream cheese, sweet berries, and colorful jello make it a perfect summer dessert.
Honestly, how can you resist something this pretty? I love serving it at picnics, and let’s be real, my friends never want to share. Grab a fork and enjoy every bite! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: This forms a delicious crust, but if you’re out of graham crackers, you can use crushed biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies instead. They can add a different flavor that might surprise you!
Sweetened condensed milk: This ingredient gives the cream cheese layer its sweet and creamy texture. For a lighter version, you could substitute with evaporated milk mixed with a little extra sugar, though it won’t be quite as thick.
Jell-O: I love using berry-flavored Jell-O for that vibrant color and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a sugar-free version. You could also use gelatin made from fresh fruit juice for a fresher taste!
Mixed berries: Fresh berries are always best, but if out of season, frozen berries work well too. You can also swap in your favorite fruits like peaches or mango for a twist on the traditional berry taste.
How Do You Make the Cream Cheese Layer Smooth?
A smooth cream cheese layer is key to a great texture in this dessert. Start by taking your cream cheese out of the fridge ahead of time so it softens. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend well!
- Beat the cream cheese in a bowl until it’s creamy and free of lumps.
- Slowly incorporate the sweetened condensed milk. Mixing gradually helps prevent clumps.
- Finally, gently fold in the whipped topping until just combined. This keeps the layer light and airy!
How to Make Summer Berry Jello Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 package (9 oz) of graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Jell-O Layers:
- 1 cup cold water
- 2 packages (3 oz each) of berry-flavored Jell-O (red and blue)
For the Fruit and Garnish:
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Rainbow sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Summer Berry Jello Lasagna takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus 2 hours of chilling in the refrigerator to set properly. It’s the perfect refreshing treat for a hot summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix it well until it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a nice crust. Once done, set it aside.
2. Making the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until everything is well combined. Then, fold in one cup of the whipped topping gently. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the crust in your baking dish.
3. Preparing the Berry Jell-O:
Now, grab two separate bowls. In each one, dissolve one package of Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water as directed on the packaging. After mixing, allow the Jell-O mixtures to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, carefully pour the red Jell-O mixture over the cream cheese layer. Make sure it covers everything nicely! Then, place it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to set.
4. Adding the Fruit Layer:
After the red Jell-O is nicely set, it’s time to add the fruit! Evenly distribute the mixed berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—over the Jell-O layer, spreading them out so that they look great.
5. Adding the Blue Jell-O:
Next, pour the blue Jell-O mixture over the berries, ensuring that all of them are covered completely. This is going to look so colorful! Return the baking dish to the fridge and let it set for an additional hour.
6. Topping with Whipped Topping:
Once the blue Jell-O is fully set, it’s time for the finishing touch! Take the remaining whipped topping and spread it evenly over the top layer of Jell-O. To make it fun and festive, sprinkle some rainbow sprinkles on top!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, slice the dessert into squares and serve it chilled. Enjoy your refreshing and beautiful Summer Berry Jello Lasagna with family and friends on a warm day!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Jell-O?
Absolutely! You can swap out the berry-flavored Jell-O for any flavor you prefer, like peach or lemon. Just keep in mind that the color and taste of the dessert will change a bit, but it’s fun to experiment!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, consider using mascarpone cheese or coconut cream. Just ensure that whatever you use is smooth and spreadable, similar to cream cheese, to maintain the texture of the layers.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To avoid jello layers from sticking to each other, either wrap the container tightly or cover with plastic wrap. Just be sure to enjoy it soon for the best taste and texture!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This dessert is perfect for making a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it well so it stays fresh, and add the sprinkles right before serving for that extra pop!
