Description
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive no-bake dessert featuring layers of crushed chocolate cookies, creamy peppermint filling, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make treat combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with chocolatey goodness, perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion.
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
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form the Crust: Press the cookie and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish creating an even layer. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the fillings.
- Make the Peppermint Filling: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor and Color: Stir in peppermint extract and, if desired, a few drops of red food coloring to give a festive hue. Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until fully incorporated.
- Spread Peppermint Layer: Evenly spread the peppermint cream mixture over the chilled cookie crust layer, smoothing the surface.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
- Layer the Pudding: Spread the thickened chocolate pudding evenly over the peppermint filling layer.
- Add the Final Topping: Spread 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer for a light and fluffy finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top. Optionally, add chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for extra decoration and texture.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, or until it is fully set and chilled through.
- Serve: Once set, slice the lasagna into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and festive dessert.
Notes
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made up to a day ahead for convenience.
- Use regular or reduced-fat cream cheese depending on your preference.
- For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute cream cheese and whipped topping with suitable plant-based alternatives.
- Add more or less peppermint extract to adjust the peppermint intensity to your taste.
- The red food coloring is optional but adds a festive visual appeal.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna, peppermint dessert, no-bake dessert, holiday dessert, chocolate pudding, peppermint cream, layered dessert
