You know those desserts that never survive more than five minutes at a potluck? This is that dessert. Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake, no-fuss, no-fail treat that layers sweet and creamy goodness into one unforgettable bite. It’s indulgent without being overbearing, rich but balanced, and oh-so-easy to make.
Made with simple ingredients—Oreo cookies, cream cheese, whipped topping, and chocolate pudding—this dessert looks like it took hours, but comes together in under 30 minutes. It chills in the fridge while you go about your day, then serves up a show-stopping experience when dessert time rolls around.
Whether you’re hosting a celebration, feeding a crowd, or just need a pick-me-up after a long day, chocolate lasagna is the answer. This isn’t just a recipe—it’s your new go-to for every sweet craving.
🍰 1. What Is Chocolate Lasagna?
Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake, layered dessert made from crushed cookies, cream cheese filling, chocolate pudding, whipped topping, and chocolate chips. It’s known for its layered look—similar to savory lasagna, but entirely sweet. Each bite is a balance of crunch, creaminess, and chocolate decadence.
Unlike traditional baked desserts, this one lives entirely in the fridge. The cold helps it set into perfect slices that are soft, cool, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
💡 2. Why This Recipe Works
- No Oven Required – Ideal for summer days or when you want to skip preheating.
- Quick Assembly – Takes about 25 minutes from start to fridge.
- Crowd-Pleasing – Kid-friendly, adult-approved, potluck-perfect.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples like cookies, cream cheese, and instant pudding.
- Make-Ahead Magic – Tastes better after chilling overnight.
🛒 3. Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you’ll need for each layer:
Crust
- 36 Oreo Cookies (regular) – Crushed into fine crumbs.
- 6 tablespoons butter – Melted, to bind the crust.
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese – Softened to room temperature.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Lightly sweetens the cream layer.
- 2 tablespoons cold milk
- 1½ cups whipped topping – Like Cool Whip or homemade.
Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.9 oz) packages instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3¼ cups cold milk – Make sure it’s cold so the pudding sets quickly.
Topping
- Remaining whipped topping (about 2½ cups)
- 1½ cups mini chocolate chips
Optional Extras: chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, cocoa powder, sprinkles, caramel drizzle, or strawberries.
👩🍳 4. How to Make Chocolate Lasagna
Step-by-Step Instructions:
✅ Step 1: Make the Crust
- Crush Oreos using a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin.
- Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully coated.
- Press into a 9×13-inch dish to form a firm, even layer. Refrigerate while you prepare the next layer.
✅ Step 2: Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk, mix until fully combined.
- Gently fold in whipped topping. Don’t overmix—keep it airy.
- Spread evenly over the cookie crust. Be gentle to avoid mixing layers.
✅ Step 3: Pudding Layer
- In a clean bowl, whisk chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
✅ Step 4: Top and Chill
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding.
- Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or your favorite garnish.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
💎 5. Tips for Perfect Layers
- Use cold milk for pudding. Warm milk won’t allow the pudding to set properly.
- Soften cream cheese to avoid lumps in the creamy layer.
- Don’t rush layering. Spread each layer gently with an offset spatula or back of a spoon.
- Let it chill fully. The longer it rests, the better the flavor and structure.
🧊 6. Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
✅ Make Ahead:
- This dessert is ideal for preparing the night before.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
✅ Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container or covered dish.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Not recommended for freezing—texture may become grainy when thawed.
🔁 7. Flavor Variations
Make it your own! Here are creative twists:
🍓 Strawberry Chocolate Lasagna
- Use strawberry pudding instead of chocolate.
- Top with fresh strawberries and chocolate curls.
🍫 Double Chocolate Fudge
- Use dark chocolate pudding and top with chocolate syrup drizzle.
🥜 Peanut Butter Lover’s
- Add a layer of peanut butter or peanut butter chips to the cream cheese mixture.
☕ Mocha Madness
- Mix espresso powder into the pudding and sprinkle with chocolate-covered coffee beans.
⚠️ 8. Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm cream cheese can cause your layer to melt into the crust.
- Overmixing whipped topping removes the fluffiness.
- Not chilling enough means the lasagna won’t slice cleanly.
- Using full-fat Oreos with extra filling may make the crust too soft.
🍽️ 9. Serving Ideas
- Serve cold with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel.
- Pair with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cut into mini squares for party-style bites.
Pro Tip: Use a hot knife (run under warm water) for clean cuts.
📊 10. Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412 |
| Carbs | 47g |
| Sugar | 29g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
❓ 11. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free sandwich cookies and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Just whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
How far in advance can I make it?
Up to 48 hours ahead. Longer than that and the cookie crust might get soggy.
Can I freeze chocolate lasagna?
It’s not recommended. The texture of pudding and whipped topping changes after freezing.
📝 12. Printable Recipe Card
Chocolate Lasagna – No-Bake Dessert Recipe
Prep Time: 25 mins
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 12 squares
Author: Elena Cooks
Ingredients:
- 36 Oreo cookies
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1½ cups + 2½ cups whipped topping (divided)
- 2 boxes (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding
- 3¼ cups cold milk
- 1½ cups mini chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Crush cookies and mix with butter. Press into 9×13-inch dish.
- Beat cream cheese with sugar and milk. Fold in 1½ cups whipped topping. Spread over crust.
- Whisk pudding mix with 3¼ cups cold milk until thick. Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Spread remaining whipped topping. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips.
- Chill for 4+ hours. Slice and enjoy cold!
🧁 13. Final Thoughts
Chocolate Lasagna is the kind of dessert that quietly becomes legendary. It’s low-effort, high-reward, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making it for your family, your friends, or just yourself (no judgment!), you’ll love how easy it is to create something so indulgent without turning on your oven.
Once you try it, don’t be surprised when you’re asked to bring it to every future gathering.
