Name: No Bake Summer Berry Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups fresh blueberries; 2 cups fresh raspberries; 2 cups mascarpone cheese; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 12–15 graham crackers or ladyfingers; Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

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This No Bake Summer Berry Lasagna is the perfect dessert for warm weather! With layers of creamy mascarpone cheese, fresh berries, and graham crackers or ladyfingers, it’s a light and fruity treat that requires no baking—just chill and enjoy. Whether for a summer gathering, BBQ, or casual dessert, this no-bake lasagna will steal the spotlight.

No Bake Summer Berry Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: This dessert is perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s quick to prepare and needs just a few hours in the fridge to set.
Light and Refreshing: With fresh summer berries and a creamy mascarpone filling, this dessert is light, refreshing, and bursting with fruity flavor.
Customizable: Swap out berries for other seasonal fruits like peaches, cherries, or even tropical fruits. Add a crunchy layer of chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Visually Stunning: The beautiful layers of mascarpone, fruit, and cookies or ladyfingers make this dessert as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups fresh blueberries
2 cups fresh raspberries
2 cups mascarpone cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12–15 graham crackers or ladyfingers
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Berries:

Wash and dry the berries thoroughly.
Slice the strawberries thinly and set aside a handful of mixed berries for garnish.

2. Whip the Cream:

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

3. Make the Mascarpone Filling:

In another bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese and lemon zest (if using).
Gently fold in the whipped cream to form a smooth, airy filling.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

In a serving dish, spread a layer of mascarpone mixture on the bottom.
Add a layer of graham crackers or ladyfingers, followed by a layer of mixed berries.
Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with a top layer of mascarpone mixture.

5. Chill and Serve:

Top with the reserved berries for garnish.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Yield: 8–10 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Fruit Variations: Swap the berries for other seasonal fruits like peaches, cherries, or blackberries.
Crunchy Layer: Add a layer of chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios between the layers for extra texture.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free mascarpone alternative, and swap the heavy cream for coconut cream.
Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate shavings or cocoa powder to the mascarpone mixture for a richer flavor.
Citrus Zing: Try adding orange or lime zest for a citrusy kick in the mascarpone filling.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This dessert is perfect for making ahead and will taste even better the next day.
Freezing: Freezing the lasagna is not recommended as the texture may change when thawed, especially the whipped cream layers.

FAQs

Can I use other cookies instead of graham crackers?

Yes! You can use ladyfingers, vanilla wafers, or even sponge cake for different textures.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, this dessert sets even better overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.

What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

Cream cheese or ricotta cheese can be used in place of mascarpone, though they may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen berries?

Fresh berries work best, but if you use frozen berries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.

How do I make sure the layers set properly?

Be sure to refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours or overnight. The longer it chills, the firmer it will become and easier to slice.

Conclusion

No Bake Summer Berry Lasagna is a simple, no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for summer. With layers of mascarpone cream, fresh berries, and a light, crunchy base, it’s the ultimate treat for warm weather. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, picnic, or just for a refreshing end to a meal, this dessert is sure to impress!