Description
This Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake dessert featuring layers of crushed chocolate cookies, a creamy peppermint cream cheese filling, rich chocolate pudding, and a whipped topping garnished with crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a refreshing peppermint twist combined with luscious chocolate flavors in a visually appealing, easy-to-make layered treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), finely crushed
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Peppermint Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- A few drops of red food coloring (optional)
- 2 cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Topping and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture is well blended.
- Form the Crust: Press the cookie and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to create an even crust layer. Place it in the refrigerator to chill and set.
- Make the Peppermint Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Peppermint Flavor: Stir in the peppermint extract and, if desired, a few drops of red food coloring to give the filling a festive hue.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, then spread this peppermint cream cheese layer evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
- Layer the Pudding: Spread the thickened chocolate pudding evenly over the peppermint cream cheese layer.
- Add the Final Topping: Spread 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer to create a smooth top layer.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies and, if desired, chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping for decoration and added texture.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled lasagna for at least 4 hours to allow all layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Cut the lasagna into 12 equal squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and indulgent dessert experience.
Notes
- This dessert requires at least 4 hours of refrigeration to properly set before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and whipped topping with non-dairy alternatives.
- Red food coloring is optional and mainly for festive presentation.
- Ensure cookies are finely crushed for a compact crust that holds together well.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 4h 20m
- Cook Time: 0m
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American