Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

If you’re anything like me and have a soft spot for all things chocolatey and layered, you’ve got to try this Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe. It’s like your favorite hot cocoa but in dessert form — rich, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something indulgent at home, this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and surprisingly easy to whip up. Trust me, your family and friends will ask for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Layered Indulgence: Each bite gives you a delightful mix of creamy mousse, fluffy whipped cream, and pudding – pure hot chocolate dreams in every forkful.
  • No-Bake Simplicity: You don’t need an oven to make this – just a little chilling time and you’re set.
  • Family Friendly: My kids go crazy for the mini marshmallow topping and it’s a huge crowd pleaser at parties.
  • Versatile & Fun: You can easily customize this Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe with your favorite mix-ins or toppings for your own twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create layers that feel light and fluffy but are deeply rich in chocolatey flavor. A quick tip: using room temperature dairy products helps the mousse and pudding layers blend smoothly.

  • Oreo sandwich cookies: Crushed for the perfect chocolatey crust, use classic Oreos or go for a double-stuffed version for extra creaminess.
  • Unsalted butter: This binds the crust together and smooths the mousse; softened butter works best.
  • Whipped topping: Thawed and ready to mix with hot cocoa for a fluffy whipped cream layer without the fuss of whipping heavy cream.
  • Hot cocoa mix: The secret ingredient that flavors both the whipped cream and mousse for that authentic hot chocolate taste.
  • Cream cheese: Adds richness and a slight tang to the mousse layer; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
  • Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the mousse smoothly without any grittiness.
  • Vanilla extract: Enhances all the chocolate flavors.
  • Chocolate fudge instant pudding mix: Quick and easy for a creamy pudding layer that sets nicely.
  • Whole milk: Room temperature to make sure the pudding sets perfectly without lumps.
  • Mini marshmallows: Divided between the pudding layer and the garnish for that melt-in-your-mouth, toasty marshmallow magic.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the reasons I love this Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. You can swap out a few ingredients or add your favorite treats to make it exactly how you like it.

  • Peanut Butter Twist: I once mixed a swirl of creamy peanut butter into the mousse layer—game changer for peanut butter and chocolate lovers.
  • Minty Fresh: Adding a drop of peppermint extract to the whipped cream gave it a festive vibe perfect for winter holidays.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk pudding and dairy-free whipped topping for a creamy vegan alternative that everyone enjoyed equally.
  • Crunch Factor: Toss in some crushed candy canes or toffee bits on the top to add a fun, festive crunch that my family raved about.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Press the Oreo Crust

Start by lining your 9×9-inch dish with parchment paper for easy removal later—trust me, this makes slicing so much easier. Crush about 20 Oreo cookies finely and mix with melted butter until everything’s coated. Then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your dish, smoothing it out with your hand or a glass. This crust sets the chocolatey foundation for the whole dessert, so make sure it’s even and compact to avoid crumbly slices.

Step 2: Whip Up the Hot Cocoa Cream

Next, stir the whipped topping and hot cocoa mix together. It only takes a minute to get a smooth, chocolatey fluffy mixture. Divide it in half—one half will go into the mousse, and the other will top off the dessert later. This is where that hot chocolate flavor really shines!

Step 3: Make the Hot Chocolate Mousse Layer

In a separate bowl, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until silky smooth. Then gently fold in half of the hot cocoa whipped cream you just made. This step is key—you want to keep that mousse light and airy, so folding carefully is worth the extra time. Spread this velvety mixture evenly over your Oreo crust and pop it into the fridge while you prepare the pudding.

Step 4: Prepare the Pudding and Layer

Whisk the chocolate fudge pudding mix with whole milk until it thickens. I usually use a handheld mixer to get it perfectly smooth—no lumps allowed! Take the lasagna out of the fridge and sprinkle one cup of mini marshmallows evenly over the mousse. It adds such a fun texture and taste surprise. Then, carefully spread the pudding layer on top of the marshmallows.

Step 5: Top and Chill

Finally, spread the remaining hot cocoa whipped cream over the pudding. Cover your dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to let all those delicious layers set perfectly. Just before serving, sprinkle the last half cup of mini marshmallows on top for that cute finishing touch.

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Pro Tips for Making Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

  • Use Room Temp Ingredients: This ensures smooth mixing especially for the cream cheese and butter in the mousse—no lumps, just velvety texture.
  • Don’t Overmix the Whipped Cream: Stir the hot cocoa into the whipped topping gently to keep it fluffy and light, critical for that airy whipped cream layer.
  • Chill for Best Results: Giving it at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, helps the layers set and so the flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Press Crust Firmly: Avoid a crumbly base by evenly pressing down the Oreo and butter mixture; I like to use the bottom of a jar for a tight pack.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

The image shows a slice of layered dessert on a white plate with a white marbled surface under it. The dessert has four visible layers: the bottom layer is light brown and textured like a crunchy base, the second layer is light with a soft texture featuring a visible white marshmallow inside, the third layer is thick and dark brown like rich chocolate, and the top layer is lighter brown cream, covered with many small white marshmallows. A woman's hand is holding a fork, lifting a piece from the dessert. In the background, there is a tall glass filled with marshmallows and blurred stacks of chocolate sandwich cookies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love finishing this dessert with a sprinkle of mini marshmallows—they add a nostalgic touch and a lovely texture contrast. Sometimes, I dust it lightly with cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate for an extra wow factor that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

This Hot Chocolate Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive spread, I serve it alongside simple sugar cookies or a light fruit salad to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve had fun layering this dessert in individual clear glasses for parties—people love seeing all those luscious layers through the glass. For holiday occasions, add edible gold dust or top with peppermint sticks to make it extra special. You’ll impress even the most skeptical chocolate lovers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After a party, I always cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days without losing any of the creamy texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe in a well-wrapped container a few times, especially when making it ahead for gatherings. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and the texture holds up surprisingly well.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so I don’t recommend reheating. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge after thawing freezer leftovers to maintain the silky mousse and pudding textures.

FAQs

  1. Can I make the Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe ahead of time?

    Absolutely! In fact, making it the day before allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the layers to set perfectly. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until serving.

  2. What’s the best way to crush the Oreos for the crust?

    My favorite trick is to put the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and roll over them with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form. This keeps everything contained and easy!

  3. Can I substitute the instant pudding with homemade chocolate pudding?

    Yes, you can use homemade pudding if you prefer! Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold up in layers and fully chilled before using.

  4. Is it necessary to use whipped topping or can I use whipped cream?

    You can definitely use freshly whipped cream instead of whipped topping if you like—it just takes a bit more time to whip and stabilize, but the flavor will be just as delicious.

  5. How long does this dessert stay fresh?

    Stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container, this Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days. After that, the texture and freshness start to decline.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy winter evenings and sharing sweet moments with loved ones. It’s rich but light, easy but impressive, and honestly, just downright irresistible. If you try it once, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So go ahead, treat yourself and your family to this layered chocolate dream — you won’t regret it!

Print
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Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Hot Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

5 from 146 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 9 pieces
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Hot Chocolate Lasagna is a decadent no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, creamy hot cocoa whipped cream, rich chocolate mousse, and smooth chocolate pudding topped with mini marshmallows. Perfectly chilled, it’s an indulgent treat that combines the best flavors of hot chocolate in a fun, sliceable form.


Ingredients

Crust

  • 2 cups crushed Oreo sandwich cookies (approximately 20 cookies)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Hot Cocoa Whipped Cream

  • 1 container (16 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
  • 4 tablespoons hot cocoa mix

Hot Chocolate Mousse Layer

  • ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pudding Layer

  • 2 boxes (3.9 ounces each) chocolate fudge instant pudding mix
  • 2 ¾ cups whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows, divided


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter, mixing thoroughly so that all crumbs are coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined dish, smoothing it into an even layer with your hand or a flat-bottomed glass. Set aside.
  2. Make Hot Cocoa Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, stir together the whipped topping and hot cocoa mix until fully blended and smooth. Divide the mixture in half, reserving one half for the mousse layer and the other half for the topping.
  3. Prepare Hot Chocolate Mousse Layer: Using a hand mixer, beat softened butter, cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold half of the hot cocoa whipped cream into this cream cheese mixture until just combined. Spread the mousse evenly over the prepared Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the pudding.
  4. Make the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the chocolate fudge instant pudding mix and whole milk until it begins to thicken. A handheld mixer can also be used to speed up the process.
  5. Layer and Final Chill: Remove the dessert from the refrigerator. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the mousse layer. Carefully spread the pudding on top of the marshmallows. Then spread the remaining hot cocoa whipped cream evenly over the pudding layer. Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, to allow all layers to fully set.
  6. Serve: Just before serving, garnish with the remaining ½ cup mini marshmallows. Slice into 9 pieces and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
  • The dessert needs at least 4 hours chilling time, but overnight will enhance the texture and flavors.
  • To crush Oreos easily, use a food processor or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Mini marshmallows on top can be toasted lightly with a kitchen torch for extra flavor, but this is optional.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (1/9th of recipe)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg