Hot Chocolate Lasagna Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fun and indulgent this dessert is. It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or when I’m craving something over-the-top and chocolatey. Every layer adds something special—from the velvety mousse to the creamy pudding and the fluffy whipped topping. The best part? It’s completely no-bake, which makes it easy to assemble ahead of time.

Ingredients

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

→ Oreo Crust

• 36 Oreo cookies, ground (filling included)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Mousse Layer

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 5 envelopes (0.73 oz each) instant hot cocoa mix (milk chocolate flavor)

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream

→ Chocolate Pudding Layer

• 2 packages (3.8 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix

• 2¾ cups milk

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

→ Topping

• 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 2 cups mini marshmallows

• Optional: melted chocolate or Nutella for drizzling

Directions

1. Make the Crust:
   I pulse the Oreo cookies (with filling) in a food processor until fine crumbs form. I stir in the melted butter and press the mixture firmly into a 13 x 9-inch dish. Then I chill it in the fridge or freezer to set while I make the next layer.

2. Make the Mousse Layer:
   In a mixing bowl, I beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until creamy. Separately, I whip the heavy cream with the hot cocoa mix until stiff peaks form. I fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two parts until fully incorporated. Then I spread this mousse over the chilled crust and return it to the fridge or freezer to set.

3. Add the Pudding Layer:
   I whisk the pudding mixes with milk until it thickens slightly. I stir in the mini marshmallows and spread the mixture over the firm mousse layer. I chill again to set.

4. Top with Whipped Cream:
   I beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread it gently over the pudding layer. I refrigerate the dessert for several hours, preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to firm up completely.

5. Finish and Serve:
   Right before serving, I top the dessert with mini marshmallows and drizzle melted chocolate or Nutella over the top. Then I slice and serve this dreamy dessert cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12.
Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 45 minutes (plus chill time; overnight recommended)

Variations

• I sometimes use peppermint hot cocoa mix in the mousse for a holiday twist.

• For a crunchy surprise, I sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the mousse and pudding layers.

• If I’m making it for kids, I let them top their own slices with chocolate syrup or sprinkles.

• I’ve used flavored Oreos like mint or dark chocolate for a unique crust flavor.

• A dash of cinnamon or espresso powder in the mousse adds a warm depth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Since this is a no-bake dessert, I never heat it up—just serve it cold straight from the fridge. It actually tastes even better after a day or two as the layers settle and the flavors deepen.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, I always make it the night before serving. It needs several hours in the fridge to set properly, and overnight is ideal.

Do I need to bake the Oreo crust?

No baking required. Once chilled, the melted butter holds the crust together perfectly.

Can I use homemade hot chocolate mix?

Yes, I’ve used my own cocoa mix when I don’t have the packets on hand. Just make sure it’s sweetened and similar in flavor to milk chocolate.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

I use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping between each cut. It helps the layers stay neat and defined.

Can I freeze this dessert?

I don’t recommend freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and pudding layers may change. It’s best kept in the fridge and eaten within a few days.

Conclusion

This Hot Chocolate Lasagna Dessert is a layered masterpiece that brings all the cozy vibes of a cup of cocoa into a rich, creamy, crowd-pleasing treat. It’s easy to make, fun to serve, and always gets rave reviews. Whether I’m hosting a holiday gathering or just in the mood for a decadent chocolate fix, this dessert always hits the sweet spot.

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