This Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a fun, colorful dessert that looks as good as it tastes! Layered with light cream, fresh berries, and jello, it’s perfect for warm days.
It’s so easy to make—even the kids can help! I love serving it chilled; it’s refreshing and super sweet, just like summer should be! 🍓✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vanilla Wafers: These create a sweet and crunchy crust. If you can’t find them, graham crackers or even Oreos can be a great substitute for a different flavor twist.
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess and tanginess. For a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese works too if you have dietary restrictions!
Whipped Topping: This gives a light texture to the cream cheese layer. If you prefer, you can use homemade whipped cream made from heavy cream and sugar instead.
Blueberry Yogurt: It enhances the berry flavor. You could swap it with plain yogurt mixed with some honey and blueberries for a more natural taste, or any other fruit yogurt you like!
Jello: For the layers, feel free to experiment. Use different flavors of jello, like raspberry or lime, to give a fun twist and play with colors.
How Do I Create a Perfectly Layered Jello Lasagna?
The key to a well-layered Jello lasagna is patience and proper setting time. Each layer needs to set before adding the next to prevent the colors from bleeding into one another.
- Make sure the first layer of jello is fully set in the fridge (about 1 hour) before pouring the next layer. Test by gently wiggling the dish; if it’s firm and doesn’t move like liquid, it’s set.
- Allow the boiling water used for dissolving jello to cool slightly before pouring it over the previous layers. This helps to avoid disturbing set layers.
Don’t rush; the wait is worth a beautiful dessert!
How to Make Summer Berry Jello Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 package (12 oz) of vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup blueberry yogurt
For The Jello Layers:
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry jello
- 1 package (3 oz) berry blue jello
- 2 cups boiling water
For The Fruit Topping:
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups blueberries
- 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Summer Berry Jello Lasagna takes about 25 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll want to chill it for about 2 hours to let everything set. So, set aside a little over 2 hours and 30 minutes for this refreshing dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, crush the vanilla wafers and mix them with the melted butter until everything is well combined. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a nice crust. Bake it in the oven for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
While the crust cools down, grab another mixing bowl. Beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until they’re smooth and creamy. Now, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and blueberry yogurt. Once it’s all mixed up, spread this delicious cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled crust.
3. Create the Strawberry Jello Layer:
Now it’s time for some fruity fun! In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir it well, then add in the sliced strawberries. Pour this mixture carefully over the cream cheese layer. Pop it into the refrigerator for about 1 hour so it can set properly.
4. Add the Berry Blue Jello Layer:
After the strawberry layer has set, let’s move on to the next one! In a bowl, dissolve the berry blue jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Allow it to cool slightly, then carefully pour it over the set strawberry layer. Put the dish back in the fridge for another hour until this layer is fully set.
5. Finish with Whipped Topping:
Once all the layers are set, it’s time for a final touch! Spread a nice layer of whipped topping over the top of the jello layers. Decorate it with colorful sprinkles and any extra berries you’d like to add. It will look beautiful and inviting!
6. Slice and Serve:
Now that your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is ready, take it out of the fridge, slice it into squares, and serve it chilled. Enjoy the refreshing layers of flavor and celebrate the taste of summer!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Jello?
Absolutely! You can substitute the strawberry and berry blue jello with any flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or lemon. Just make sure to stick with the same quantity for best results!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, simply replace the vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies or a gluten-free crumb crust. Ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Jello lasagna a day ahead of time. Just store it covered in the refrigerator. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If layers appear to separate, give it a gentle stir before serving again!
