Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
If you’ve ever wished you could eat hot chocolate with a spoon, then Hot Chocolate Lasagna is your dessert soulmate! This sweet, no-bake recipe layers everything you love about the classic winter drink—chocolate cookies, fluffy cream, silky pudding, and plenty of marshmallows—into one dreamy, decadent treat. Every bite is a celebration of chocolatey richness and creamy goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday party or a cozy family night, Hot Chocolate Lasagna always steals the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Hot Chocolate Lasagna is how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something truly spectacular. Each one plays a starring role, from the crunchy cookie crust to the pillowy whipped topping. Here’s what you need for dessert magic:
- Chocolate sandwich cookies: These cookies form the base and bring classic chocolate flavor with a hint of crunch.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs together for a sturdy, rich crust.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds tang and creamy texture to the second layer.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch sweetens up the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
- Milk (for cream cheese layer): A splash of milk makes the cream cheese filling extra smooth and spreadable.
- Whipped topping: Folded into the cream cheese, it makes the filling light, fluffy, and irresistible.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: The star of the show, this creates a thick, rich chocolate layer in minutes.
- Cold milk (for pudding): Essential for activating the pudding mix and achieving the perfect texture.
- Mini marshmallows: A playful, chewy topping that brings all the hot chocolate vibes.
- Mini chocolate chips: Sprinkle these on top for extra chocolatey bursts in every bite.
- Chocolate syrup: A drizzle just before serving adds even more decadence and a glossy finish.
- Additional whipped topping (optional): For those who love a little extra cloud-like fluff on top.
How to Make Hot Chocolate Lasagna
Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust
Start by crushing your chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs—either in a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until everything looks like wet sand. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even layer. Pop the dish in the fridge so the crust sets while you prepare the next layer.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and a couple tablespoons of milk until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping—this will make your filling light and airy. Spread this creamy goodness evenly over the chilled cookie crust. Take your time—it’s the foundation for the chocolate layers to come!
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Combine the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl. Whisk for about two minutes, until the pudding thickens and becomes glossy. Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer, spreading it to the edges so every slice gets its fair share of chocolate. This layer brings all the cozy, hot chocolate flavor to your lasagna.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips
Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the pudding layer, then scatter mini chocolate chips for extra bursts of chocolate. These toppings are what truly make this dessert a Hot Chocolate Lasagna, capturing the spirit of your favorite winter treat in every bite.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Transfer the dish to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least four hours. This step is key for letting all the layers set and meld together. Just before serving, drizzle generously with chocolate syrup and add an extra dollop of whipped topping if you like. Slice, serve, and watch as everyone falls in love with your Hot Chocolate Lasagna!
How to Serve Hot Chocolate Lasagna
Garnishes
For the ultimate finishing touch, drizzle chocolate syrup over each slice and add a swirl of whipped topping. A sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips or a dusting of cocoa powder can make your Hot Chocolate Lasagna look even more tempting. If you want to go all out, a few extra mini marshmallows on top will make it look just like a mug of hot chocolate!
Side Dishes
Serve each piece alongside a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. For a cozy winter gathering, pair it with peppermint bark or chocolate-dipped strawberries to complement the chocolatey richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is never a bad idea either!
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual servings by layering the ingredients in clear jars or cups—perfect for parties or a special treat for kids. You can also try cutting the Hot Chocolate Lasagna into fun shapes using a cookie cutter, or layering it as a trifle for a show-stopping centerpiece at your holiday table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Hot Chocolate Lasagna fresh, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, Hot Chocolate Lasagna freezes beautifully! Simply wrap the dish tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture will be a bit firmer, almost like an ice cream cake—delicious on a hot day or when you crave a frosty treat.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is needed. If it’s been in the freezer, just let it thaw in the fridge until it’s soft enough to slice. For an extra cozy twist, serve slices with a mug of warm hot chocolate on the side.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream works wonderfully in Hot Chocolate Lasagna. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form and use it in place of the whipped topping for a more homemade feel.
What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?
If you can’t find instant pudding, you can use homemade chocolate pudding, but make sure it’s completely cooled and thickened before layering so it sets properly and doesn’t make the dessert runny.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure if you’re serving those with allergies.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped toasted nuts, toffee bits, or even crushed graham crackers add extra crunch and flavor. Layer them between the pudding and marshmallows for a fun twist on the original Hot Chocolate Lasagna.
How far in advance can I make Hot Chocolate Lasagna?
You can make Hot Chocolate Lasagna up to two days ahead. In fact, letting it chill overnight helps the layers meld for even better flavor and texture when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Chocolate Lasagna is more than just a dessert—it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, impressive, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes your new go-to for every special occasion (or any day that just needs a little extra chocolate magic)!
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Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hot Chocolate Lasagna is a rich, no-bake layered dessert featuring a chocolate cookie crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, luscious chocolate pudding, and topped with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any chocolate lover’s treat, this easy-to-prepare dessert combines creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Pudding Layer
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- additional whipped topping for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, forming an even crust layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the next layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust in the baking dish.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups of cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens. Carefully spread this thickened pudding over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle mini marshmallows over the pudding layer, followed by an even layer of mini chocolate chips. This adds texture and additional chocolatey flavor to your lasagna.
- Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. This allows all layers to meld together and the dessert to firm up.
- Serve: Before serving, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top and add a dollop of whipped topping if desired for extra creaminess and decoration. Slice into 12 servings and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or toasted nuts between layers.
- This dessert can be frozen for a firmer, icebox-style treat; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use quality whipped topping and chocolate pudding for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
