Hot Chocolate Lasagna is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves to combine rich chocolatey layers with dreamy marshmallow cream and a little crunch. Imagine a cool, crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to make yet looks like you put hours into it. Perfect for holidays, winter parties, or anytime you crave a no-bake showstopper dessert, this lasagna layers Oreo crust, creamy marshmallow filling, decadent chocolate pudding, and a snowdrift of whipped topping with playful garnishes. Every forkful is a nostalgic blast of hot cocoa, reinvented as a sliceable, shareable treat. If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers “wow” factor with minimal effort, this is about to become your new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that every ingredient in this Hot Chocolate Lasagna pulls its weight—adding sweetness, fluff, or a sturdy base that ties the whole dessert together. These pantry staples blend into a symphony of chocolate and creamy goodness, making each layer distinct, delicious, and delightfully irresistible.

Chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos): Crushed cookies create a chocolatey, crunchy foundation that holds all the luscious layers above.
Unsalted butter (melted): Binding the cookie crust together with rich, buttery flavor.
Mini marshmallows: These little puffs melt into a creamy wonder, bringing out classic hot chocolate vibes.
Milk (for marshmallow melting): Just enough to smooth out the marshmallow layer so it spreads like a dreamy cloud.
Cream cheese (softened): Key for that creamy, cheesecake-like texture in the marshmallow layer—don’t skip it!
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without any graininess.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash lifts all the flavors and adds warmth.
Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Adds fluff and stability—will not weep or separate like homemade whipped cream over time.
Instant chocolate pudding mix: The secret to that rich, chocolatey layer which sets quickly and is effortlessly smooth.
Cold milk (for pudding): Whisks into the pudding mix to make it thick and luscious.
Mini chocolate chips: A final touch of chocolate crunch in every bite.
Extra mini marshmallows & chocolate shavings: Optional, but makes the presentation sing, especially for parties or special occasions.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Lasagna

Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust

Start by crushing your chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs—either with a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and going to town with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until everything’s evenly moistened and looks a little like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form a thick, dreamy crust. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you whip up the next layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Layer

In a small saucepan, gently melt the mini marshmallows with just a splash of milk over low heat, stirring constantly until everything is silky smooth. Let this mixture cool for a few minutes (just so it doesn’t melt the next layer). Beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar and vanilla until it’s feathery and smooth, then blend in the cooled marshmallow mixture. Fold in half the whipped topping until everything’s fluffy and cloudlike. Carefully spread this creamy white layer over your chilled cookie crust.

Step 3: Mix and Layer the Chocolate Pudding

Now, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk in a bowl for about 2 minutes, until it thickens up and gets glossy. Spoon and gently spread this chocolatey goodness over the marshmallow cream layer, making sure to reach all the corners for even deliciousness in every bite.

Step 4: Top and Garnish

Spread the rest of the whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing it out like a fresh snowfall. Scatter mini chocolate chips over the top, and don’t hold back on extra mini marshmallows or chocolate shavings if you’re feeling fancy. Let your masterpiece chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for a firmer slice).

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once your Hot Chocolate Lasagna is totally chilled and set, grab a sharp knife and slice it into squares. Use a spatula to lift out big, beautiful pieces, and get ready for the oohs and aahs when everyone sees those striking layers.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Lasagna

Garnishes

For maximum impact, sprinkle extra mini marshmallows, a handful of mini chocolate chips, and a big flourish of chocolate shavings over the top. A light drizzle of chocolate syrup before serving also amps up the hot chocolate effect. These little touches not only make the dessert gorgeous but also add texture and chocolaty aroma—totally worth it.

Side Dishes

Pairing Hot Chocolate Lasagna with a mug of hot cocoa or a shot of espresso really drives home those cozy, wintry vibes. If you’re serving it at a party, fresh berries or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side add contrast and brightness to each rich slice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in mason jars or parfait glasses for an adorable layered effect—everyone gets their own mini lasagna! You can also use cookie cutters to make fun shapes for special events, or build a trifle out of the layers for a whimsical twist. Don’t forget a dusting of powdered sugar for a “snowy” finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hot Chocolate Lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, staying firm and flavor-packed. The chilled layers mean the dessert won’t get soggy, so it’s fantastic for making ahead or sneaking a slice the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze individual pieces or the whole pan (well-wrapped). To serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture might become a little softer, but the flavors will remain dreamy and the dessert will still slice nicely.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat this dessert—it’s best served chilled, just like a classic chocolate lasagna should be! Take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to soften the layers slightly if you prefer, but let the cool, creamy flavor shine.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

You can, but keep in mind that homemade whipped cream tends to lose its shape and structure more quickly than Cool Whip, especially if you’re making this dessert ahead. For the most stable layers and crisp presentation, stick with whipped topping.

What’s the best way to crush the cookies for the crust?

A food processor gives you the most even, fine crumbs, but if you don’t have one, just pop the cookies in a sturdy zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Make sure they’re well-crushed so the crust holds together!

Can I make Hot Chocolate Lasagna gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out regular Oreos for your favorite gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies, and double-check that your pudding mix and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. You’ll get all the delicious flavor and texture, just made to fit your needs.

How long does Hot Chocolate Lasagna need to chill?

For the neatest slices, aim to chill the dessert for at least 4 hours, though overnight is even better. Chilling lets the layers firm up and meld together, so you’ll get those gorgeous lines with every cut.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Definitely! Try stirring peppermint extract into the marshmallow layer for a holiday twist, adding chopped nuts between the layers for crunch, or using flavored chocolate chips on top.

Final Thoughts

If you love desserts that bring smiles and second helpings, you owe it to yourself to try Hot Chocolate Lasagna. It’s a no-fuss, utterly delightful treat that never fails to impress and disappears in a flash at any table. Go on—gather your ingredients and let the layering fun (and taste-testing) begin!

Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in layers of chocolatey goodness with this Hot Chocolate Lasagna – a no-bake dessert that combines the flavors of hot chocolate in a delicious, chilled treat. Perfect for winter or any time you’re craving a sweet, creamy dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookies Crust:

36 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Marshmallow Cream Layer:

2 cups mini marshmallows
2 tablespoons milk
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Extra mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cookies Crust: Finely crush the sandwich cookies and mix with melted butter. Press into a baking dish.
Marshmallow Cream Layer: Melt marshmallows with milk, then combine with cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and whipped topping. Spread over crust.
Chocolate Pudding Layer: Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Spread over marshmallow layer.
Top with whipped topping, chocolate chips, and garnishes. Chill before serving.