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Pecan Pie Lasagna

Pecan Pie Lasagna

Pecan Pie Lasagna is a rich and innovative dessert that layers toasted pecans, luscious caramel sauce, and flaky pastry sheets, combined with a custard-like filling, creating a perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and creamy textures. This show-stopping dessert is easy to prepare, customizable for dietary needs, and perfect for any special occasion or holiday treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Nut Layer

  • 1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted

Caramel Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pastry Layers

  • 810 sheets of phyllo dough or pastry sheets
  • 1/4 cup melted butter, for brushing layers

Filling

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (from above)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramel Sauce: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, then gradually add brown sugar and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth, rich caramel sauce that will act as the binder for the pecan layers.
  2. Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Stir or shake the pan frequently to ensure even toasting and to enhance their natural flavor and crunch.
  3. Prepare Pastry Layers: Lay out the phyllo dough or pastry sheets gently, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter. This will create the delicate, flaky layers that mimic lasagna noodles in texture.
  4. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and a portion of the prepared caramel sauce until the mixture is smooth and combined. This custard-like filling gives softness similar to classic pecan pie.
  5. Assemble the Layers: Begin by placing a pastry sheet at the bottom of a baking dish. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over it, then sprinkle toasted pecans evenly on top. Add a layer of the egg-caramel filling over the nuts. Repeat these layers until you finish with a final pastry sheet. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled lasagna for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set. Allow the dessert to cool slightly before serving to let the layers solidify properly.

Notes

  • Toast nuts evenly by shaking the skillet frequently to avoid burning and bring out the best flavor.
  • Brush pastry layers generously with melted butter for maximum flakiness and richness.
  • Avoid overbaking to prevent the top from getting too dark while ensuring the filling sets properly.
  • Cool the dessert before slicing to help the layers firm up and allow for clean cuts.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients such as vanilla extract, pecans, and butter for the best flavor.
  • Can substitute gluten-free phyllo dough or almond flour-based layers for a gluten-free option.
  • Vegan adaptations include using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan margarine in place of butter.
  • Optional variations: add a chocolate ganache layer, incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the caramel, or swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie lasagna, pecan dessert, layered pecan pie, caramel dessert, phyllo dessert, holiday dessert