Summer Strawberry Jello Lasagna

This festive and refreshing summer strawberry Jello lasagna is a vibrant no-bake dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. With its colorful layers of funfetti cookie crust, creamy blue cheesecake, sweet strawberry Jello with fresh berries, and fluffy whipped topping, this chilled treat is perfect for warm-weather gatherings like picnics, barbecues, and patriotic celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Summer strawberry Jello lasagna combines nostalgic flavors and eye-catching layers in one crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s cool, fruity, and creamy, making it ideal for hot days. The funfetti cookie crust adds a soft and chewy base, while the blue cheesecake layer offers a tangy contrast to the sweet strawberry Jello. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare ahead of time and requires minimal baking—making it a convenient option for busy summer events.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• 1 (16 oz) roll refrigerated sugar cookie dough (funfetti or regular)
• 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional)

For the blue cheesecake layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
• Blue food coloring

For the strawberry layer:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 (6 oz) package strawberry Jello
• 2 cups boiling water

Topping:

• 2 cups whipped topping
• Red and blue sprinkles
• Whole strawberries for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add sprinkles to the dough if using.
3. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
4. Prepare the blue cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping and a few drops of blue food coloring until the color is evenly distributed.
5. Spread the blue layer evenly over the cooled cookie crust. Refrigerate to chill while you prepare the next layer.
6. Make the strawberry layer: Dissolve the strawberry Jello in 2 cups of boiling water. Let it cool slightly until just warm, then fold in the sliced strawberries.
7. Pour the strawberry mixture gently over the blue layer. Return to the refrigerator and chill for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
8. Top with whipped topping and spread evenly over the set Jello layer. Garnish with red and blue sprinkles and whole strawberries.
9. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Use raspberry or cherry Jello instead of strawberry for a different red layer.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a citrusy brightness.
• Different Crust: Swap the cookie dough crust for a graham cracker or vanilla wafer crust for a crunchier base.
• Individual Servings: Assemble in clear cups or jars for single-serve, portable versions.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based cream cheese substitutes for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dessert should be kept chilled at all times.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the Jello and whipped topping may be compromised once thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the day before your event and keep it chilled until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but thawed and well-drained frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Its sweet layers, bright colors, and fun toppings make it a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can use freshly whipped cream in place of Cool Whip. Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and stabilized with a bit of powdered sugar.

What if my Jello layer doesn’t set?

Make sure the Jello has cooled slightly before pouring over the cheesecake layer, and allow enough time in the refrigerator to set—at least 3–4 hours.

Can I add more fruit?

Yes, feel free to add blueberries to the Jello layer or as garnish for added texture and patriotic flair.

What size pan should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for the layered effect and serving size.

Can I use a different food coloring?

Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant blue with less moisture, but liquid food coloring also works.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cookie dough or a gluten-free crust alternative.

How do I keep the layers from mixing?

Make sure each layer is fully chilled and set before adding the next one. Pour the Jello slowly and carefully to avoid disturbing the cheesecake layer.

Conclusion

Summer strawberry Jello lasagna is a fun, festive, and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, patriotic holidays, and family picnics. With its bright colors, refreshing fruit, and creamy textures, it’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Chill, slice, and serve for a crowd-pleasing treat everyone will love.

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