Hot Chocolate Lasagna: A Decadent No-Bake Dessert

Hot Chocolate Lasagna is a rich, layered no-bake dessert that tastes just like a cup of creamy hot chocolate—only colder and more indulgent. With layers of crushed cookies, chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and marshmallows, this is the kind of treat I love making when I want something sweet, fun, and guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert delivers everything I love about hot chocolate—creamy chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and that cozy flavor—without needing a stove or oven. It’s cold, creamy, and totally decadent, but comes together with simple ingredients and zero baking. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just craving something chocolatey, this one always hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed

• Melted butter

• Instant chocolate pudding mix

• Milk (cold)

• Cream cheese, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

• Mini marshmallows

• Mini chocolate chips or shaved chocolate (for topping)

• Hot cocoa mix (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. I start by mixing crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter and pressing the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.

2. I chill the crust in the fridge while I prepare the layers.

3. In one bowl, I beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth, then fold in a layer of whipped topping.

4. I spread the cream cheese layer over the chilled crust.

5. In another bowl, I whisk the instant pudding with cold milk until thick, then spread it gently over the cream cheese layer.

6. I top the pudding with another layer of whipped topping, smoothing it out evenly.

7. I scatter mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips on top, and sometimes I dust the top with a little hot cocoa mix for extra flair.

8. I refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let it set before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 12–15.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes use peppermint extract in the pudding or cream cheese layer for a minty holiday twist.

• When I want it extra rich, I mix hot cocoa mix right into the pudding.

• I’ve used white chocolate pudding and white chocolate chips for a “snowy” version.

• For a fun topping, I crush peppermint candies or drizzle with chocolate syrup.

• I occasionally make it with a graham cracker crust for a s’mores-inspired version.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It holds its layers well and tastes even better the next day. I never freeze it, since the texture of the pudding and whipped topping doesn’t hold up well after thawing. No reheating is needed—this dessert is served chilled.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, I usually make it the night before—chilling it overnight helps the layers firm up and the flavors come together.

What type of cookies work best for the crust?

I stick with classic chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), but any chocolate cookie with a creamy filling will do.

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

Yes, I sometimes use freshly whipped cream, but I make sure it’s stable enough to hold up for layering.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

The cream cheese adds structure and richness, but I’ve seen versions made without it—just know it’ll be softer and more mousse-like.

How do I slice it cleanly?

I use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, and make sure the dessert is well chilled for the cleanest slices.

Conclusion

Hot Chocolate Lasagna is one of those no-bake desserts that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. I love the soft, creamy layers, the contrast of chocolate and marshmallow, and how easy it is to throw together. Whether I’m serving it for a holiday, party, or just because, it always brings a smile—and a second helping.

Hot Chocolate Lasagna: A Decadent No-Bake Dessert

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12–15 servings
• Category: Dessert, No-Bake
• Method: No-Bake, Chilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Hot Chocolate Lasagna is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert layered with crushed chocolate cookies, fluffy cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and marshmallows. With all the cozy flavor of hot cocoa and none of the oven time, this decadent, crowd-pleasing treat is perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you crave chocolate comfort in a chilled slice.

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Ingredients

• 36 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed
• ½ cup melted butter
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 16 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
• 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips or shaved chocolate
• 1–2 tbsp hot cocoa mix (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill in the fridge.

2. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping.

3. Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.

4. In another bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thick. Spread over cream cheese layer.

5. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.

6. Top with mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, and a dusting of hot cocoa mix if desired.

7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

8. Slice and serve chilled.

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Notes

• Add peppermint extract to the pudding or cream cheese for a holiday twist.
• Use white chocolate pudding and chips for a “snowy” version.
• Graham cracker crust gives a s’mores-inspired flavor.
• Crushed peppermint candies or chocolate syrup make festive toppings.
• Use homemade whipped cream if it’s stabilized for layering.