Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

If you adore cozy, hearty dishes bursting with seasonal flavors, this Layered Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, Parsnip Lasagna is about to become your new favorite comfort food. The star here is undoubtedly the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze, which brings a brilliant balance of sweetness, tartness, and crunch that elevates this vibrant vegetable lasagna to unforgettable heights. Each bite is a delightful harmony of creamy feta, tender roasted vegetables, and that irresistible finish of the glaze that simply sings autumnal magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in delivering layers of flavor and texture, from the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes and pumpkin to the creamy tang of feta cheese. The Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze adds a luscious jewel-like finish, perfectly tying the whole dish together.

• Sweet potatoes (2 large, peeled and thinly sliced): Provide a naturally sweet, hearty base with beautiful color.
• Pumpkin puree (2 cups, unsweetened): Brings creamy moisture and subtle warmth that coats each layer.
• Parsnips (2 medium, peeled and thinly sliced): Add a slightly nutty flavor and tender texture when roasted.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons for roasting + 1 tablespoon for topping): Essential for roasting veggies to golden perfection and adding richness.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (½ teaspoon + ½ teaspoon for filling): Balance and enhance all flavors.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses a lovely earthy herbal note that complements the vegetables.
• Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warm spice ideal for fall dishes.
• Feta cheese (1 ½ cups, crumbled): Delivers tangy creaminess with a pleasant salty bite.
• Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Makes the filling luxuriously smooth and mild.
• Egg (1): Binds the cheese mixture for perfect layering.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides savoriness and depth.
• Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of green color.
• Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 cup): The tart backbone of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.
• Honey (3 tablespoons): Sweetens the glaze naturally and beautifully contrasts the cranberries.
• Orange juice (2 tablespoons) and orange zest (1 teaspoon): Brighten and brighten the glaze with citrus zing.
• Water (1 tablespoon): Helps soften cranberries during glaze preparation.
• Chopped pecans (½ cup): Provide crunch and nutty richness atop the lasagna.
• Shredded mozzarella (optional, ½ cup): For a golden, melty finish that’s simply irresistible.

How to Make Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the sweet potato and parsnip slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. This seasoning mix ensures each slice is flavorful and aromatic. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes until they begin to soften but still hold their shape. Roasting ahead adds depth and prevents sogginess later.

Step 2: Make the Feta Filling

While the veggies roast, mix the creamy feta, ricotta, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and pepper in a bowl. Blend until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture that will add a rich, tangy layer to the lasagna. This filling brings a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the vegetables and ties the whole dish together.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Now for that show-stopping Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze! Combine cranberries, honey, orange juice, orange zest, and a bit of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to a luscious glaze. A light mash with a spoon leaves some chunky bits, adding texture that beautifully complements the pecans and adds a vibrant ruby-red drizzle atop your lasagna.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Begin by spreading a thin layer of pumpkin puree on the bottom — this helps everything stick and adds subtle sweetness. Layer the roasted sweet potatoes next, followed by a generous spread of the feta filling. Add a layer of roasted parsnips, then repeat the layering: pumpkin, sweet potatoes, feta mixture, and parsnips. Finish with a thin layer of pumpkin puree on top for a smooth surface ready for toppings.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Bake

Brush the top layer gently with olive oil, then sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the surface for wonderful crunch. If you’re craving a golden, cheesy crust, add shredded mozzarella now. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the lasagna is tender and the top turns beautifully golden.

Step 6: Finish with Glaze

After removing the lasagna from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes to settle. Then, generously drizzle your warm Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze over the top. This step is truly magical, adding a glossy, fruity finish that contrasts delightfully with the savory layers beneath.

How to Serve Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

To finish your lasagna presentation, consider sprinkling a little extra chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves for a fresh, herbal pop. A few whole pecans scattered on top also add a touch of rustic charm and crunch that invites guests to dive in.

Side Dishes

This layered dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple garlic sautéed kale are perfect companions, offering a mix of fresh, bitter, and savory flavors to balance the richness and sweetness of the lasagna and glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive or holiday meal, serve slices of the lasagna on individual plates and drizzle extra Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze from a small pitcher at the table for some interactive flair. You could also turn this into a vegetarian main centerpiece by serving it alongside warm crusty bread and a cheese platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lasagna keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator, tightly covered or stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an equally delicious meal the next day. The Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze might thicken when chilled; simply rewarm gently before serving.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Assemble the lasagna but do not add the glaze before freezing. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, then add the freshly warmed Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze at the end.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make textures softer. Always add a fresh drizzle of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze when reheating to revive those bright, fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I substitute the feta cheese for another cheese?

Absolutely! While feta’s tanginess is wonderful here, you can swap in goat cheese for a creamy, slightly tart flavor or cottage cheese for a milder taste. Just be sure the cheese you choose blends well with the other layers.

Is it possible to make the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before drizzling over your lasagna to bring it back to its glossy, pourable consistency.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Fresh or frozen cranberries work best because they burst and create a natural sauce-like texture. Dried cranberries won’t melt down the same way, but you could rehydrate them and blend with a little extra water and juice if necessary.

Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, the recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat or fish. For a vegan version, you’d need to replace the cheeses and egg with plant-based alternatives and adjust the glaze to ensure the honey is substituted if needed.

Can I omit the mozzarella topping?

Absolutely. The mozzarella adds a lovely golden crust but it’s entirely optional. The lasagna tastes wonderful with just the pecans and the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze finishing touch, especially if you prefer a nutier texture over cheesy.

Final Thoughts

This lasagna with Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is truly a celebration of fall flavors, textures, and colors all layered into one comforting dish. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it soon—you’ll be amazed how the glaze brings vibrancy and crunch that makes every forkful feel like a cozy hug. Perfect for family dinners or holiday tables, it’s guaranteed to become a treasured staple in your recipe rotation.

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