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    Home » Recipes » Dessert

    Chocolate Lasagna (Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert) + Video

    September 5, 2022 by Kelly 22 Comments

    Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake dessert with light, fluffy, creamy layers of Cool Whip, chocolate pudding, and cream cheese all on an Oreo cookie crust.

    The perfect ice-box cake for when you need a quick and easy, delicious dessert to feed a crowd

    piece of chocolate lasagna with a bite taken out this recipe!

    Jump to Section

    • Why you’ll love this Chocolate Dessert Lasagna
    • What is Chocolate Lasagna?
    • Ingredients in this Chocolate Lasagna recipe:
    • How to Make Chocolate Lasagna:
    • Tips for the BEST Chocolate Lasagna
    • Recipe FAQs
    • More chocolate dessert recipes for you to love:
    • Easy Chocolate Lasagna (No-Bake Dessert)

    Why you’ll love this Chocolate Dessert Lasagna

    • Incredibly light, creamy, and delicious
    • Unbelievably easy to make with ready-made ingredients
    • No baking, no heating up a hot kitchen
    • Whip up something quick and easy when you’re short on time
    • Crowd pleasing
    • Perfect for parties, potlucks, and barbecues
    • Make ahead dessert
    • Loved by kids and adults
    pan of chocolate lasagna with pieces cut out

    What is Chocolate Lasagna?

    Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake dessert with light, fluffy, creamy layers of Cool Whip, chocolate pudding, and cream cheese all on an Oreo cookie crust that just melts in your mouth.

    One of our favorite chocolate no-bake dessert recipes, it’s also called Chocolate Lush, Sex in a Pan, Chocolate Dream, Robert Redford Dessert, or Better Than Anything Dessert.

    It’s made of 4 layers:

    • Oreo crust layer – a no-bake Oreo cookie crust made of Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter that’s pressed into a baking dish
    • Cheesecake layer – This smooth and creamy layer tastes like a light and fluffy cheesecake. Cream cheese is whipped until fluffy, then a container of Cool Whip is folded in.
    • Chocolate pudding layer – Instant chocolate pudding mix is whisked with milk for this super quick and easy chocolatey layer.
    • Cool Whip layer – Another carton of Cool Whip is spread on top and sprinkled you’re your topping of choice: chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or Oreo crumbs.

    Ingredients in this Chocolate Lasagna recipe:

    • Oreos - use the regular Oreos (not double stuffed) and don’t remove the creamy centers
    • Butter – salted or unsalted
    • Cream cheese – For a rich, tangy filling. Make sure it’s softened.
    • Sugar - sweetens the cream cheese layer
    • Milk – thins the cream cheese for a spreadable consistency
    • Cool Whip – makes the filling light and fluffy. You can substitute homemade whipped cream, but Cool Whip tends to hold up better without seeping water.
    • Chocolate pudding – be sure to get the INSTANT chocolate pudding. It thickens after just a few minutes of stirring.
    • Chocolate: for garnishing the top. You can use mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings, or crushed Oreos.
    ingredients in chocolate lasagna

    How to Make Chocolate Lasagna:

    • Oreo crust layer – Process the Oreos (with their cream) in a food processor until they’re crumbs (or in a ziploc bag with rolling pin). Add the melted butter and process until combined. Press into an even layer in a 9”x13” baking dish. Refrigerate (or put in the freezer) while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
    oreo cookies and melted butter in food processor
    oreo cookie crust layer in pan
    • Cheesecake layer - In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese with the milk and sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in the Cool Whip. Carefully spread over the Oreo crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the chocolate pudding layer.
    cream cheese layer in pan
    • Chocolate pudding layer – Whisk the instant chocolate pudding with cold milk until it thickens. Carefully spread over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate until it sets, about 5-10 minutes.
    chocolate pudding layer in pan
    • Cool whip layer - Spread the Cool Whip over the chocolate layer and top with your favorite topping: chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or Oreo crumbs.  Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. You can also freeze it for an hour or two before slicing.
    cool whip layer in pan
    pan of chocolate lasagna

    Tips for the BEST Chocolate Lasagna

    • Use regular Oreos, not Double Stuf, and do not remove the cream centers from the cookies. 36 cookies = 3 cups of crumbs.
    • Be sure to use INSTANT pudding. Do not use Cook & Serve.
    • Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before whipping so it gets light and fluffy.
    • Putting the dessert into the freezer after each step firms up the layers and makes it easier to spread the next layer, especially if your kitchen is hot or humid.
    • You can use an equal amount of homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.  Beat 3 cups of heavy whipping cream until medium peaks form.
    • Note that homemade whipped cream will not keep its texture as long as Cool Whip and will start to seep water and deflate.
    • For a topping of chocolate shavings, use a vegetable peeler to shave along the side of a bar of bittersweet chocolate, creating ribbons to sprinkle on top.
    • You can make this dessert up to 2 days ahead, keep refrigerated.
    • Chill before serving so the layers have time to firm up. Take the dish out right before serving otherwise it will get too soft for slicing.
    • For the neatest, cleanest slices with straight edges, freeze the dessert for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before slicing.
    • To cut clean pieces run your knife under warm water and when slicing, continually wipe the knife clean.

    Recipe FAQs

    Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

    While homemade whipped cream can be used and would have a richer flavor, it’s not as stable as Cool Whip and will start to deflate and seep water. If you do use whipped cream, try stabilizing it with gelatin so that it stays fluffy longer. See how I make stabilized whipped cream with gelatin here.

    To replace 16oz of cool whip: beat 3 cups of heavy whipping cream on medium speed until soft peaks form then add 3 tablespoons of sugar (or powdered sugar) and continue beating until medium peaks form.

    What type of pudding should I use?

    Use INSTANT chocolate pudding mix and not the Cook & Serve variety. Instant pudding is simply whisked with cold milk. It does not need to be cooked prior to using.

    I only have the cook and serve type pudding mix. Can I use it?

    If you only have Cook & Serve pudding, cook according to package directions and cool before layering.

    Can I use other types of Oreos?

    This recipe uses regular Oreos. Double Stuf Oreos will give a greasier crust. Different flavors of Oreos would give a fun flavor variation.

    Can I freeze chocolate lasagna?

    Yes, cover and freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw on counter to soften before serving. It’s also equally delicious served semi-frozen. Freezing works best when using Cool Whip rather than whipped cream.

    Can this dessert lasagna be made into a trifle?

    Yes. Just chop or break the Oreos into bite-size pieces, then layer them into the bottom of the trifle dish, followed by the cream cheese layer, pudding, and Cool Whip. Repeat all 3 layers until the trifle dish is filled, then garnish with your chosen topping.

    These can also be made in individual servings in small glasses or jars.

    More chocolate dessert recipes for you to love:

    • Chocolate Cream Pie
    • Chocolate Espresso Cheesecake
    • Dreamy French Silk Pie
    • Chocolate Zucchini Cake with Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
    • Homemade Chocolate Wafers
    • Triple Chocolate Cookies
    • Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
    • The Ultimate Fudgy, Chewy Brownies
    • Nutella-Stuffed, Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
    Print
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    piece of chocolate lasagna with a bite taken out

    Easy Chocolate Lasagna (No-Bake Dessert)


    ★★★★★

    5 from 5 reviews

    • Author: Kelly
    • Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
    Print Recipe
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    Description

    Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake dessert with light, fluffy, creamy layers of Cool Whip, chocolate pudding, and cream cheese all on an Oreo cookie crust.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 36 Oreo cookies, a 14.3oz package
    • 6 tablespoons butter, melted
    • 8oz cream cheese, room temperature
    • ¼ cup granulated sugar
    • 2 tablespoons milk
    • 16oz Cool Whip, 2 (8oz) containers, separated
    • 8oz INSTANT chocolate pudding mix (2 - 3.9oz boxes)
    • 3 ¼ cups milk
    • To garnish: chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or Oreo crumbs

    Instructions

    1. Process the Oreos in a food processor until they’re crumbs (or in a ziploc bag with rolling pin). (Do not remove cream centers.) Add the melted butter and process until combined. Press into an even layer in a 9”x13” baking dish. Refrigerate (or put in the freezer) while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
    2. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese with the milk and sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in one 8oz container of Cool Whip. Carefully spread over the Oreo crust. Refrigerate (or put in freezer) while you prepare the chocolate pudding layer.
    3. Whisk the instant chocolate pudding with cold milk until it thickens. Carefully spread over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate until it sets, about 5-10 minutes.
    4. Spread the second container of Cool Whip over the chocolate layer and top with chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or Oreo crumbs.
    5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. You can also freeze it for an hour or two before slicing.

    Equipment

    Image of food processor

    food processor

    Buy Now →
    • Prep Time: 20
    • Chilling time: 4 hours
    • Cuisine: American

    Keywords: dessert, chocolate, oreos, cream, no bake, cool whip, pudding, cream cheese,

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    1. angiesrecipes

      September 05, 2022 at 12:48 am

      All the layers of goodness and richness!! This is an irresistible dessert, Kelly.

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 13, 2022 at 12:35 pm

        Thanks so much, Angie!

        Reply
    2. Ron

      September 05, 2022 at 10:29 am

      Chocolate Lasagna, what a great name for a yummy-looking dessert. We don't have cool whip here, but we do have Oreos and I can make a cool whip substitute with whipped cream with a dash of icing sugar. What fun to serve for dessert after a plate of lasagna...

      ★★★★★

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 13, 2022 at 12:40 pm

        Serving it after lasagna would be great fun! Thanks so much, Ron!

        Reply
    3. John / Kitchen Riffs

      September 07, 2022 at 10:54 am

      What a fun idea -- very creative. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 13, 2022 at 11:50 am

        Thanks, John!

        Reply
    4. David @ Spiced

      September 14, 2022 at 7:47 am

      Holy cow - this looks amazing, Kelly! I want to dig into that lasagna...and it's not even 8am here yet. I love the layers, and I also love that this can be made in advance. That means less work and more time to hang out with company. I just hope I don't sneak into this one before the company arrives! 🙂

      ★★★★★

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 14, 2022 at 8:32 pm

        It's hard to resist! Thanks so much, David!

        Reply
    5. Liz

      September 14, 2022 at 7:54 am

      Oh, boy, my family will love this!!! And it's the prettiest chocolate lasagna I've seen---a must make!!

      ★★★★★

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 14, 2022 at 8:31 pm

        Thanks so much, Liz!

        Reply
    6. David Scott Allen

      September 16, 2022 at 4:30 pm

      This look really wonderful, Kelly - and I will definitely use homemade whipped cream. Sorry to be a snob, but Cool Whip doesn't cross my threshold. (I have a long list!!)

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 18, 2022 at 3:33 pm

        Haha! I grew up on Cool Whip but haven't touched the stuff for years! I definitely think whipped cream and even a homemade chocolate pudding would taste divine in this dish. I'd probably stabilize the homemade whipped cream with some gelatin. One thing I found interesting about the Cool Whip was how it kept its texture in the fridge for a few days. And then there's the ease of using it for those who want to throw something together quickly.

        Reply
        • David Scott Allen

          November 18, 2022 at 3:51 pm

          I do like your idea of homemade whipped cream (stabilized - brilliant!) and homemade chocolate pudding is a good one. The question I know have: what do you have for dessert after your lasagne?

          Reply
          • Kelly

            April 24, 2023 at 5:49 am

            Haha! Thanks David!

            Reply
    7. Neil

      September 24, 2022 at 4:26 am

      As much as I love lasagne Kelly, sometimes I make it too much as a main course. I'm thinking of substituting your delicious chocolate lasagne as the main course from now on. Ha ha! Looks AMAZING!

      ★★★★★

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 24, 2022 at 11:21 pm

        That's a great idea, Neil!

        Reply
    8. 2pots2cook

      September 28, 2022 at 6:03 am

      Soooooooo agree to Neil!!!!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂 No more leftovers, for sure! LOL

      ★★★★★

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 29, 2022 at 1:55 am

        Thanks so much, Davorka!

        Reply
    9. Valentina

      September 30, 2022 at 1:17 am

      Such beautiful and luscious layers! Love a recipe that's super impressive looking, but it's actually quick and easy. 🙂 ~Valentina

      Reply
      • Kelly

        September 30, 2022 at 1:26 pm

        Thanks, Valentina!

        Reply
    10. Camp

      January 28, 2023 at 9:14 am

      Do I use 2 tablespoons of milk with the cream cheese or 3 1/4?

      Reply
      • Kelly

        January 28, 2023 at 12:55 pm

        The 2 tablespoons of milk are mixed in with the cream cheese!

        Reply

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    Kelly Shaban

    Hi there! So nice to meet you! Welcome to my little corner of the internet. I’m so glad you're here! I’m Kelly, a homeschooling mother of five (and a CPA in a previous life). When I’m not teaching differential equations or Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation, you’ll find me in the kitchen, whipping up something good to eat for my hungry crew. Read More About Me

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