Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna Recipe

ByAndria Russo
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Introduction

Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake dessert that layers rich chocolate, creamy peppermint, and crunchy cookie crust. This cool treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a refreshing chocolate-mint combination.

A close-up of a rectangular dessert with multiple layers on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark chocolate crumb crust, followed by a thick white creamy layer with small bits of red candy mixed in. Above that is a thin chocolate layer, topped by a generously thick layer of white cream. The top layer is decorated with swirls of whipped cream and sprinkled with pieces of crushed red and white candy canes, adding a festive look. Some candy pieces are scattered around the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), finely crushed
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 2 cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), divided
  • A few drops of red food coloring (optional)
  • 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  • Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted butter, mixing until well blended.
  2. Step 2: Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust. Refrigerate while preparing the next layers.
  3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Stir in the peppermint extract and, if desired, a few drops of red food coloring to give a festive touch. Fold in 2 cups of whipped topping gently until combined.
  5. Step 5: Spread the peppermint cream mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
  6. Step 6: In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
  7. Step 7: Spread the chocolate pudding layer evenly over the peppermint filling.
  8. Step 8: Top the pudding with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping, spreading it smoothly.
  9. Step 9: Garnish the top with crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips if using.
  10. Step 10: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is set and chilled.
  11. Step 11: Slice into squares and serve cold for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

  • Use high-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor without bitterness.
  • Substitute crushed peppermint candies with white chocolate chips for a sweeter topping.
  • For a dairy-free option, try coconut whipped topping and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
  • Chill the dessert overnight to allow layers to meld beautifully and enhance flavors.

Storage

Store the Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve again, simply slice and enjoy chilled—no reheating needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a square dessert with multiple layers on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark chocolate crumb base, rough and dense. Above it is a white creamy layer with bits of crushed red and white peppermint candy mixed in. This is topped by a thick smooth white cream layer. On the very top, there is a thick white whipped cream layer with peaks and swirls, decorated with broken peppermint candy pieces scattered across. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal to prepare this dessert a few hours or overnight before serving to allow the layers to set properly and flavors to develop.

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting with vanilla or almond extract, though it will change the classic peppermint taste of this dessert.

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Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 140 reviews
  • Author: Andria
  • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
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Description

This Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a delightful layered dessert combining a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, creamy peppermint-flavored cheese layer, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. Finished with festive crushed candy canes and optional chocolate shavings, it offers a perfect balance of chocolate and refreshing peppermint, ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), finely crushed
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Peppermint 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

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and resemble wet sand, ensuring the crust will hold together well.
  2. Form the Crust: Press the cookie mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to create a compact crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the next layers.
  3. Make the Peppermint Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the peppermint extract and, if desired, a few drops of red food coloring to give the filling a festive tint. Gently fold in the 2 cups of whipped topping until fully incorporated and light.
  4. Layer the Peppermint Filling: Spread the peppermint cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
  5. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with the cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a smooth pudding consistency.
  6. Add the Pudding Layer: Pour and spread the thickened chocolate pudding evenly over the peppermint filling layer, creating another smooth, even layer.
  7. Add the Topping: Spread the 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer, covering it completely to create a final creamy topping layer.
  8. Garnish: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies evenly over the whipped topping. Optionally, add chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for extra texture and decoration.
  9. Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and chilled to allow all layers to firm up and flavors to meld.
  10. Serve: Once chilled and set, slice the lasagna into squares and serve cold for a refreshing and festive dessert.

Notes

  • For best results, use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth peppermint filling without lumps.
  • Red food coloring is optional but adds a festive touch perfect for holiday presentations.
  • If you prefer a less sweet dessert, adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.
  • To make this dessert gluten-free, substitute the chocolate sandwich cookies with gluten-free chocolate cookies.
  • This dessert must be refrigerated and served chilled to maintain its layered texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chocolate peppermint lasagna, no-bake dessert, layered dessert, holiday dessert, peppermint chocolate dessert

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