Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of spooning into a slice of decadent chocolate heaven, Hot Chocolate Lasagna is your ultimate dessert fantasy come true. Think layers of chocolate sandwich cookie crust, gooey marshmallow cream, fluffy chocolate pudding, and clouds of whipped cream, all topped with a generous sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. This no-bake, showstopping treat not only satisfies a chocoholic’s deepest desires but brings the cozy nostalgia of a mug of hot cocoa straight to your table—reimagined as an irresistible layered dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hot Chocolate Lasagna lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Every component is thoughtfully chosen: from the classic chocolate cookies for crunch to the mini marshmallows bringing classic cocoa vibes, each adds flavor, texture, and color that makes every bite memorable.
- Chocolate sandwich cookies (36, crushed): These set the stage, forming a rich, chocolatey base that perfectly anchors each layer.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Helps bind the cookie crumbs into a firm, buttery crust—don’t be shy, butter is key here!
- Mini marshmallows (2½ cups): Essential for that signature creamy, stretchy marshmallow layer reminiscent of real hot chocolate.
- Milk (2 tablespoons for marshmallow cream + 2 cups cold): Used to melt the marshmallows and to create the silkiest pudding—you can use whole milk for extra richness.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds a tangy smoothness in the creamy layer, balancing all the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Blends seamlessly into the cream cheese layer for gentle sweetness without any grit.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth, subtly elevating each layer.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups, divided): Turns into fluffy clouds both in the creamy layer and finishing touch.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (1, 3.9-ounce package): Quick, foolproof, and intensely chocolatey, this is the secret to that luscious pudding tier.
- Mini chocolate chips (1½ cups): A playful crunch in every slice and a beautiful edible confetti on top.
- Whipped cream & chocolate shavings (for garnish): The crowning glory, making each slice look (and taste) utterly irresistible.
How to Make Hot Chocolate Lasagna
Step 1: Build the Cookie Crust
Start by combining your finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until every crumb glistens, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. This step is crucial for the satisfying crunch beneath all those creamy layers, so pack it down well!
Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, toss in all the mini marshmallows and 2 tablespoons of milk. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the mixture is dreamy, smooth, and reminiscent of the marshmallow topping on your favorite hot cocoa. Spread this molten marshmallow miracle all over the cookie crust. Let it cool for just a few minutes.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Fluff
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of freshly whipped heavy cream, lifting and turning until the mixture is pillowy and light. Carefully spread this over the cooled marshmallow layer, creating that distinctive creamy contrast you’ll love in Hot Chocolate Lasagna.
Step 4: Make and Add the Chocolate Pudding
In a clean bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick and irresistible. Drop spoonfuls across the cream cheese layer and gently spread, ensuring every edge gets its helping. This is where the Hot Chocolate Lasagna magic really comes together—lush pudding right in the middle!
Step 5: Layer on Whipped Cream and Toppings
Now, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Smooth it over the pudding layer, making sure it’s wonderfully even. Shower the top with mini chocolate chips for that playful pop of texture. Right before serving, add generous clouds of whipped cream and finish with a flourish of chocolate shavings. For best results, chill the whole pan for at least 4 hours or overnight so the layers can set beautifully.
How to Serve Hot Chocolate Lasagna
Garnishes
A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips and a drizzle of chocolate sauce bring festive flair, but don’t stop there—pillowy whipped cream dollops and a shower of chocolate shavings make each slice of Hot Chocolate Lasagna look bakery beautiful. Just before serving, add a few marshmallows or even a candy cane at the holidays for that nostalgic hot chocolate experience.
Side Dishes
This rich layered dessert is the star of any spread! Pair your Hot Chocolate Lasagna with a tall glass of cold milk, or offer tiny espresso cups of coffee for grown-ups. For a delightful contrast, serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries—their tartness offers a lovely counterpoint to all the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dessert into an occasion by scooping Hot Chocolate Lasagna into individual parfait glasses for single-serve decadence, or try cutting them into bite-sized squares for an elegant dessert platter. If you’re hosting a party, let guests top their own slice with extra marshmallows, sprinkles, or a drizzle of caramel—make it a dessert bar they’ll remember!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Hot Chocolate Lasagna keeps like a dream in the fridge. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store for up to four days; the layers will stay luscious without getting soggy. For best results, wait to add your final garnish until right before serving.
Freezing
Want to make ahead or save a few slices for a future craving? This dessert freezes beautifully! Just slice into portions, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and tuck into a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw slices in the fridge overnight—the texture will be almost as good as fresh.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Hot Chocolate Lasagna (in fact, it tastes best cold!), but if you love your dessert a touch softer and creamier, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before enjoying. Avoid using the microwave, as it can melt the whipped layers.
FAQs
Can I substitute Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! If you want to make your Hot Chocolate Lasagna even easier, you can use store-bought whipped topping in place of homemade whipped cream for both the cream cheese layer and the topping. It saves time and still tastes phenomenal.
How can I make it even more chocolatey?
If you’re a certified chocoholic, simply add a couple tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to the chocolate pudding layer. You’ll get a deeper, “hot chocolate” flavor that’s irresistibly rich and perfect for true fans.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Kids adore Hot Chocolate Lasagna! The combination of familiar flavors—cookies, chocolate pudding, and marshmallows—makes it a guaranteed hit. You can even invite little helpers to sprinkle the chocolate chips and shavings on top.
Can I assemble the dessert in advance?
Yes, in fact, this dessert actually improves as it chills. Making Hot Chocolate Lasagna a day ahead gives the flavors time to meld and the layers to set, so you get those clean, beautiful slices when it’s time to serve.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, then slice—this trick helps you get perfect, tidy squares every time. Clean the knife between cuts for photo-worthy results!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something truly special and downright comforting, don’t hesitate—try making Hot Chocolate Lasagna for your next get-together or cozy night in. It’s a dessert that earns rave reviews, brings smiles to every table, and just might become your new family favorite!
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Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in layers of chocolatey goodness with this Hot Chocolate Lasagna. A no-bake dessert featuring a cookie crust, marshmallow cream, cream cheese layer, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, topped with chocolate chips and more. A delightful treat for any chocolate lover!
Ingredients
Cookie Crust:
- 36 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Marshmallow Cream Layer:
- 2½ cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tablespoons milk
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 (3.9-ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Toppings:
- 1½ cups mini chocolate chips
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Cookie Crust: Combine crushed cookies with melted butter. Press into a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Make Marshmallow Cream: Microwave marshmallows and milk until smooth.
- Create Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and whipped cream until fluffy.
- Layer the Dessert: Spread marshmallow cream, then cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Prepare Chocolate Pudding: Whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened. Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Add Whipped Cream: Whip remaining cream and spread over the pudding layer.
- Top and Chill: Sprinkle with chocolate chips, garnish, and chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- You can use Cool Whip as a shortcut for the whipped cream.
- Enhance the hot chocolate flavor by adding hot cocoa mix to the pudding.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead for convenience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
