Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and impressive this dessert is. There’s no baking involved, just layers of delicious textures that come together into a chilled, sliceable dessert. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and customizable with different toppings. Plus, it gets even better after a night in the fridge, so I can make it ahead without any stress.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
14.3 ounces Oreo cookies (regular, not double stuffed)
1/2 cup melted margarine or butter
8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
16 ounces Cool Whip, divided in half
1 cup powdered sugar
5.1 ounces instant vanilla pudding
5.1 ounces instant chocolate pudding
3 cups cold milk
chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
chocolate curls or chopped chocolate candy (optional garnish)
Directions
First Layer:
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I add the whole Oreos—including the filling—to a food processor and pulse until I get fine crumbs. I reserve one cup of the crumbs for topping.
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I mix the remaining crushed Oreos with melted butter and press the mixture into an even layer in a 9×13 pan. Then I place the pan in the fridge to chill while I make the next layer.
Second Layer:
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Using an electric mixer, I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in one cup of powdered sugar and 8 ounces of Cool Whip until it’s light and creamy.
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I spread this mixture gently over the chilled Oreo crust and return the pan to the fridge.
Third Layer:
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In a large bowl, I whisk together both pudding mixes with 3 cups of cold milk until it thickens slightly—this usually takes about 2 minutes.
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I spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and smooth it out evenly.
Fourth Layer:
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I top everything with the remaining 8 ounces of Cool Whip, spreading it gently to cover the pudding layer.
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I sprinkle the reserved Oreo crumbs over the top, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and, if I’m feeling extra fancy, I add chocolate curls or chopped candy for garnish.
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I chill the dessert in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for cleaner slices and a thicker texture.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
Total time: 45 minutes (active + chill)
Variations
I like to change this up by using different pudding flavors—sometimes I go all chocolate, or I mix it up with cookies and cream pudding. I’ve also used peanut butter cups as a topping for a Reese’s-inspired version. And for a holiday twist, I’ve added crushed peppermint candy or drizzled with caramel sauce instead of chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, there’s no reheating required. I just slice and serve straight from the pan. If I’m taking it somewhere, I keep it chilled in a cooler until ready to serve to make sure it holds its shape.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, I actually prefer making it the day before. An overnight chill helps it set beautifully and makes it easier to slice.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely. I just make sure to whip it stiff enough to hold the layers, especially for the topping.
Can I freeze chocolate lasagna?
I’ve done it before, but I find the texture changes a bit once thawed. It’s best fresh or refrigerated, but freezing can work in a pinch—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
I place the Oreos in a large ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin or a heavy pan until they’re fine crumbs. It takes a bit more effort, but it works just as well.
Can I use different cookies for the crust?
Yes! I’ve tried it with chocolate graham crackers or vanilla sandwich cookies when I wanted a different flavor base. Just make sure to include some kind of fat (like butter) to bind the crumbs together.
Conclusion
Chocolate Lasagna is one of those desserts I come back to again and again. It’s effortless to make, full of creamy chocolate goodness, and always a hit at any table. I love how adaptable it is and how it keeps well for days—if it lasts that long. It’s the ultimate cool, layered treat I turn to when I want something indulgent without turning on the oven.
Print
Chocolate Lasagna
- Total Time: 45 minutes (includes chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no-bake chocolate lasagna is cool, creamy, and layered with Oreo crust, sweet cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip. An easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients
14.3 oz Oreo cookies (regular, not double stuffed)
1/2 cup margarine or butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
16 oz Cool Whip, divided in half
1 cup powdered sugar
5.1 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
5.1 oz instant chocolate pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
Chocolate syrup (for drizzle)
Chocolate curls or chopped chocolate candy (optional garnish)
Instructions
First Layer – Oreo Crust:
Crush whole Oreos (including the cream) in a food processor until evenly crumbled. Reserve 1 cup for topping.
Mix remaining crumbs with melted butter.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Refrigerate to chill.
Second Layer – Cream Cheese Filling:
4. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, 8 oz of Cool Whip, and powdered sugar until smooth.
5. Spread over chilled Oreo crust. Chill again.
Third Layer – Pudding Layer:
6. In a bowl, whisk together both pudding mixes and cold milk until thickened.
7. Spread over cream cheese layer.
Fourth Layer – Topping:
8. Spread remaining 8 oz of Cool Whip over the pudding.
9. Top with reserved crushed Oreos.
10. Drizzle with chocolate syrup and garnish with chocolate curls or candy, if desired.
Chill:
11. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, or overnight for best results.
Notes
Make-ahead friendly – chill overnight for firmer slices.
Room temperature cream cheese prevents lumps.
Can also be made in individual cups or pie dishes for portioned treats.
Use any chocolate candy you like for topping (Reese’s, M&M’s, chopped Hershey’s, etc.).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American