Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

No Bake Summer Berry Lasagna is a delightful summer dessert that combines layers of rich cream cheese, fresh berries, and vibrant Jello for a refreshing treat. This Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is perfect for gatherings like Memorial Day or the 4th of July, offering a colorful and delicious way to celebrate. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it stand out, while its no-bake nature ensures it’s easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With no baking required, this dessert comes together quickly and effortlessly.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh berries and creamy layers creates a light yet indulgent taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a holiday gathering, this dessert fits right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal fruits.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful layers make for an impressive centerpiece at any table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna, gather the necessary tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your cream cheese and whipped cream are perfectly blended for a smooth texture.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: Provides ample space for layering, making it easy to serve later.

Ingredients

For the Cream Layers

• 1 and 2/3 cup heavy cream-chilled
• about 1/3 cup powdered sugar (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ½ cup unsalted butter-softened
• 8 oz. cream cheese-softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2/3 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 1 cup of whipped cream

For the Jello Layer

• 2 (3 oz.pckg) berry blue Jello (or other flavor to your taste)
• 1 and 1/4 cup boiling water

For the Base and Toppings

• 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup strawberry jam
• ½ cup+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter-melted
• Red gel food coloring
• 2 cups blueberry pie filling
• 1 cup of canned crushed pineapple-drained from juice (if using pineapple chunks, pulse in food processor)
• 2 ½ cups whipped cream
• Fresh strawberries halved
• Fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup chocolate chips

How to Make Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and strawberry jam in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form the base.

Step 2: Make the Cream Layer

In another mixing bowl, blend together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and chilled heavy cream until light and fluffy. Fold in diced strawberries gently to combine. Spread this mixture evenly over the graham cracker base.

Step 3: Prepare the Jello Layer

In a separate bowl, dissolve the berry blue Jello in boiling water. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the cream layer in your dish. Refrigerate until set.

Step 4: Add Fruit Toppings

Once the Jello layer is set, top with blueberry pie filling, crushed pineapple, fresh strawberries, blueberries, and chocolate chips as desired. Finish with whipped cream for an extra touch.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna for at least two hours before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for gatherings. It can be served in various ways to enhance its presentation and flavor.

Individual Servings

• Serve each portion in small cups or jars for a fun and personal touch.
• Garnish with fresh berries on top for extra color and flavor.

Family Style

• Arrange the lasagna on a large platter and slice into squares.
• Allow guests to help themselves, making it a communal dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Add an extra dollop of whipped cream on top of each serving.
• This adds richness and a light, airy texture to the dessert.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an indulgent touch.
• This combination of flavors will please any chocolate lover.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top with additional fresh fruit like sliced strawberries and blueberries.
• This enhances both the look and freshness of the dessert.

Festive Presentation

• Use decorative plates or bowls that match your occasion.
• This elevates the dessert’s appeal, especially for holidays or parties.

Save it!

How to Perfect Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

To ensure your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and heavy cream are well-chilled before whipping. This helps achieve better peaks in your whipped cream mixture.

• Layer Carefully: Spread each layer gently to avoid mixing colors. Use an offset spatula for smooth layering.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh berries enhance flavor. Choose ripe strawberries and blueberries for the best results.

• Allow Time to Set: Refrigerate the lasagna for at least three hours. This allows flavors to meld and layers to firm up properly.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

Pairing side dishes with your Summer Berry Jello Lasagna can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Grilled Chicken Salad – A light salad with grilled chicken, greens, and vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.

2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a fun summer vibe and goes well with desserts.

3. Caprese Skewers – Easy-to-eat skewers with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes provide a refreshing bite.

4. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with veggies offers a satisfying side that balances sweetness.

5. Fruit Platter – A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits enhances the berry theme without overpowering the main dish.

6. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread adds texture and is always a crowd-pleaser alongside any summer meal.

7. Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies served with dip provide a crunchy contrast to creamy desserts.

8. Watermelon Feta Salad – A refreshing salad combining sweet watermelon with salty feta brings out summer flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

No Bake Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a delightful dessert, but certain mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Not chilling the cream: Failing to chill your heavy cream can result in a less fluffy texture. Always start with cold cream for better whipping.
• Overmixing the cream cheese: Overmixing can lead to a runny filling. Mix just enough to combine ingredients until smooth.
• Skipping the cooling time: Rushing the cooling process for the Jello can lead to improper layering. Allow it to set fully before assembling.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using softened butter and cream cheese is crucial for the right consistency. Make sure these ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Using stale graham crackers: Old crackers won’t provide the desired crust texture. Check your ingredients for freshness before starting.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes, especially with whipped cream and Jello.
• If necessary, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Summer Berry Jello Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Not recommended for this dessert as it may affect the layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Summer Berry Jello Lasagna?

Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a no-bake dessert that features layers of creamy filling, fruit, and Jello. It’s perfect for summer gatherings.

How long does it take to prepare Summer Berry Jello Lasagna?

The total preparation time is about 3 hours, which includes chilling time for the layers to set properly.

Can I customize my Summer Berry Jello Lasagna?

Absolutely! You can use different fruits or flavored Jello based on your preference. Feel free to get creative!

Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?

Yes! This dessert serves 12 people, making it ideal for parties like Memorial Day or Fourth of July celebrations.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Berry Jello Lasagna is a refreshing treat that’s both easy and fun to make. Its vibrant layers of flavor appeal to everyone, making it perfect for any summer occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite berries or flavors—each version is sure to delight!