Caramel Pecan Lasagna Squares

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 6, 2026

Featured in: Desserts

Caramel Pecan Lasagna Squares offer a luscious combination of rich, creamy layers and crunchy textures that make every bite unforgettable. This layered dessert features a tender shortbread cookie base, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a luscious caramel pudding topping, finished with a fluffy whipped topping and crunchy candied pecans for the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat, these squares come together with simple ingredients and are sure to impress your family and friends alike. The harmony of caramel and cinnamon-spiced pecans creates a warm and comforting flavor profile that’s truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The shortbread base is buttery and crisp, providing a sturdy yet tender foundation for the creamy layers.
The combination of cream cheese and caramel pudding adds a rich, smooth texture with a hint of sweetness.
Candied pecans offer a delightful crunch and a warm cinnamon flavor, perfectly complementing the caramel.
This dessert can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter (170 g): Softened butter creates a rich, tender shortbread cookie base with a smooth texture.
Brown sugar (55 g): Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the shortbread layer, enhancing the buttery flavor.
Salt (0.25 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors in the shortbread dough.
Ground cinnamon (0.5 teaspoon, optional): Adds warm spice to the cookie base and candied pecans for a comforting aroma.
All-purpose flour (125 g): Provides structure to the shortbread base while keeping it tender and crumbly.
Chopped toasted pecans (60 g): Adds crunch and a nutty flavor to the cookie layer, enhancing texture and taste.
Cream cheese (225 g): Softened for a smooth, creamy layer that balances the sweetness of caramel pudding.
Powdered sugar (120 g): Sweetens and smoothens the cream cheese layer for optimal flavor and consistency.
Whipped topping (360 g, divided): Adds lightness and fluffiness to the cream cheese and pudding layers for a luscious mouthfeel.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, aromatic note to the cream cheese layer, enhancing overall flavor.
Caramel instant pudding mix (2 x 110 g): Provides a rich, creamy caramel-flavored pudding layer that sets perfectly.
Cold milk (710 ml): Whisked with pudding mix to create a smooth and velvety caramel pudding.
Chopped pecans (100 g, for topping): Used for making candied pecans that add a flavorful crunch on top.
Brown sugar (100 g, for topping): Coats the pecans to create a sweet, crunchy candied topping.
Caramel dessert sauce (70 ml): Drizzled over the finished dessert to intensify caramel flavor and add attractive gloss.

Instructions

Prepare and bake the shortbread base: Preheat the oven to 175°C and lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish with butter. Beat softened butter, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the flour and mix at low speed until combined, then fold in the toasted pecans. Spread the dough evenly in the dish and bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges turn light golden. Cooling completely ensures the base firms up for layering.
Mix and spread the cream cheese layer: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 180 g of whipped topping and vanilla extract to lighten and add sweetness. Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Freezing for 10 minutes helps the layer set, making subsequent layers easier to add without mixing.
Prepare and layer the caramel pudding: Whisk caramel instant pudding mix with cold milk until thick and smooth. Spread this pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer. Placing the dish back in the freezer for 5-10 minutes allows the pudding to firm up nicely for the final topping layer.
Add the final whipped topping layer: Gently spread the remaining 180 g of whipped topping over the set pudding layer to add a fluffy, cloud-like finish. This creamy layer balances the rich caramel and provides a light texture contrast.
Make the candied pecans: In a skillet over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir constantly while cooking for about 5 minutes until sugar melts and coats the pecans evenly. Transfer to parchment paper and cool completely to crisp up, then break into clusters for a crunchy topping.
Assemble and chill the dessert: Sprinkle the cooled candied pecan clusters over the whipped topping. Drizzle with caramel dessert sauce for extra sweetness and visual appeal. Refrigerate the entire dessert for 3-4 hours to fully set before slicing into squares for serving, ensuring perfect layers and flavors.

You Must Know

Allow the shortbread base to cool completely before adding cream cheese to avoid melting the cream cheese layer.
Freeze layers briefly between steps to achieve clean, distinct layers and a stable dessert.
Adjust caramel sauce quantity based on your preferred sweetness and presentation style.
This dessert keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, flavors develop beautifully overnight.

Storage Tips

Store the Caramel Pecan Lasagna Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, consume within this time frame. Avoid freezing as it can affect the whipped topping and pudding consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these decadent squares chilled, perhaps with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Garnish with extra caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a finishing touch.

Professional Tips

Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth layer.
To toast pecans evenly, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast at 175°C for 8-10 minutes before chopping.
For cleaner slices, chill the dessert thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
If using homemade caramel sauce, allow it to cool slightly before drizzling to avoid melting the whipped topping.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour in the shortbread layer with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking to make this dessert gluten-free.
How long does it take for the layers to set?: Each chilling step requires 5-10 minutes, and the final refrigeration should be 3-4 hours to allow all layers to properly set and meld flavors.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?: Yes, fresh whipped cream works well and adds a fresher taste. Ensure it’s whipped to soft peaks and use immediately to maintain stability.
What can I substitute for instant caramel pudding mix?: You can make a homemade caramel pudding or use butterscotch pudding mix as an alternative, adjusting sweetness to taste.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?: Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows flavors to meld perfectly. Keep covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
How do I prevent the whipped topping from melting?: Keep the dessert chilled during preparation and serving. Add whipped topping as the final layer and handle gently to maintain its shape and texture.