Hot Chocolate Lasagna – A No-Bake Layered Dessert That Tastes Like a Cozy Mug of Cocoa
Hot chocolate has a way of making everything feel warmer, softer, and more comforting. It’s the drink you reach for on chilly evenings, snow days, or when you simply need something sweet and familiar. Now imagine that same cozy flavor transformed into a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert layered from bottom to top with chocolatey goodness. That’s exactly what Hot Chocolate Lasagna delivers.
This dessert is all about layers—each one playing its own role in creating the ultimate comfort treat. It starts with a buttery chocolate cookie crust that gives the dessert structure and crunch. Next comes a fluffy cream cheese layer that adds a subtle tang and lightness, followed by a thick chocolate pudding layer that brings deep cocoa flavor. The final layer is a generous blanket of whipped topping, finished with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings that instantly remind you of a classic cup of hot cocoa.
Hot Chocolate Lasagna is perfect for holidays, potlucks, and make-ahead gatherings because it requires no oven time and actually gets better as it chills. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough to look like something from a dessert table spread. Kids love it for the marshmallows and chocolate, while adults appreciate the creamy texture and nostalgic flavor.
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting, festive yet effortless, this is the one. Each slice is cool, creamy, and packed with chocolate flavor, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream or whipped topping
- Chocolate pudding mix
- Milk
- Cocoa powder
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill for 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Gently fold in whipped topping or whipped cream and spread this layer evenly over the crust.
- In another bowl, whisk chocolate pudding mix with milk and cocoa powder until thickened.
- Spread the pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading smoothly.
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Hot Chocolate Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter and press into dish.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping and spread over crust.
- Whisk pudding mix, milk, and cocoa powder until thick.
- Spread pudding layer over cream layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping, marshmallows, and chocolate.
- Chill at least 4 hours before slicing.
Notes
Tips & Tricks:
- Chill each layer briefly if your kitchen is warm to keep layers clean and defined.
- Use a hot knife (run under warm water) for neat slices.
- For extra cocoa flavor, use dark chocolate pudding mix.
Variations:
- Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup between layers.
- Use peppermint extract for a mint hot chocolate twist.
- Swap chocolate cookies for graham crackers for a milder base.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled with a mug of coffee or hot cocoa.
- Garnish slices with extra marshmallows or cocoa powder.
- Perfect for Christmas parties, winter gatherings, and potlucks.
Storage Information:
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy layers.
FAQ:
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made the day before serving. - Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely—whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. - Does this need baking?
No, this is a completely no-bake dessert.
History / Fun Facts:
Dessert “lasagnas” became popular as an easy way to layer flavors and textures without baking. This hot chocolate-inspired version is a winter favorite, bringing together the nostalgic flavors of cocoa and marshmallows in a shareable, sliceable form.
