If you’re searching for a truly show-stopping, fuss-free dessert that feels like a hug from the holidays, look no further than Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna. This no-bake, dreamy layered masterpiece captures everything you love about chocolate, peppermint, and creamy textures in every forkful. With a crunchy cookie base, layers of cool peppermint cream, silky chocolate pudding, and festive candy topping, Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna manages to be both nostalgic and surprisingly elegant—making it perfect for any winter table, party, or just because you love a good sweet treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how each simple ingredient does a little heavy lifting for flavor, color, or decadence. Gather these essentials and you’re halfway to the magic of Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna!
- Chocolate sandwich cookies (14.3 oz package): The key to the signature dark, crunchy crust—classic Oreos work perfectly, but any chocolate sandwich cookie will do!
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Melts into the cookie crumbs, ensuring a rich, firm base that holds every wonderful layer.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds tangy creaminess and luxurious body to the peppermint layer.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Dissolves smoothly into the cream cheese for a touch of gentle sweetness.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash brings that delightfully fresh holiday flavor!
- Cool Whip (8 oz container, thawed): Folds into the cream cheese for an extra fluffy, dreamy layer, and tops everything off for a soft finish.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz package): The ultimate shortcut for a silky-smooth, luscious chocolate layer.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Perfect for activating the pudding mix and keeping things refreshingly light.
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): Sprinkle them between layers for little chocolate bursts and great texture contrast!
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (1/2 cup): Infuse each bite with a surprise crunch and a gorgeous splash of color.
- Additional Cool Whip, crushed peppermint, chocolate shavings or syrup (optional toppings): Use these to dress up the lasagna just before serving for extra flair.
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust
In a medium bowl, stir together your crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted butter until the crumbs look like damp, delicious sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, making sure it’s nice and tight for the perfect base. Pop the pan in the fridge to chill while you work on the next luscious layer.
Step 2: Prep the Peppermint Cream Cheese Layer
Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps. Blend in the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, then fold in half of the Cool Whip. The mixture should get pale, fluffy, and full of that signature holiday aroma. Gently spread this gorgeous cream layer over your chilled crust—take a moment to appreciate the dreamy contrast already!
Step 3: Whisk Up the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Next, in a clean bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes, until it thickens up to a rich, dreamy pudding. Smooth the pudding over the peppermint cream cheese layer, taking care to spread it all the way to the very edges of the pan for even, beautiful layers in every bite.
Step 4: Layer with Cool Whip, Chocolate Chips, and Peppermint
Once your chocolate layer is nestled in, top it with the remaining Cool Whip, spreading it light and thick. Sprinkle the whole surface with mini chocolate chips and a generous handful of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. This is where Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna really starts to look like a holiday party in a pan!
Step 5: Chill and Finish with Toppings
Refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!) to let the layers mingle and set. Just before serving, feel free to add extra Cool Whip, a swirl of chocolate syrup, more crushed peppermint, or even chocolate shavings to make your Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna completely irresistible. Slice, serve, and watch it disappear.
How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna
Garnishes
To make each slice shine, top with a puff of Cool Whip, a drizzle of glossy chocolate syrup, and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint or chocolate curls. Not only does it look festive, but those extra toppings provide delightful pops of flavor and that all-important holiday sparkle.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna pairs beautifully with a mug of hot chocolate, strong coffee, or even peppermint tea. For a bigger spread, serve alongside a simple fruit salad or a platter of assorted holiday cookies to offer something for everyone at your table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the lasagna into bite-sized squares and popping them into festive mini cupcake liners for a fun party treat. If you want to get extra fancy, serve each piece on a dusting of cocoa powder or with a tiny scoop of peppermint ice cream. Layering in individual mason jars or dessert glasses also makes for showstopping single servings that wow at any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. Store in the refrigerator, where it will keep its texture and flavor for up to 5 days—just be prepared for it to disappear quickly if you have any sweet-toothed snackers around!
Freezing
This dessert is incredibly freezer-friendly. Simply wrap the lasagna well (or transfer pieces to a sealed container) and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours or on the counter for about 30 minutes until it’s sliceable, creamy, and perfect.
Reheating
You don’t need to reheat Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna (in fact, please don’t!). It’s best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge or after a brief thaw if frozen. If you want a touch of warmth, pair your slice with a hot drink rather than warming up the dessert itself.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works well as long as you whip it to stiff peaks and stabilize it with a touch of powdered sugar. The whipped cream will add a slightly fresher flavor, though Cool Whip tends to hold its shape longer in the fridge.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, just swap regular chocolate sandwich cookies with your favorite gluten-free version. Make sure to check the pudding mix and candy ingredients to confirm they’re gluten-free as well.
How can I crush the peppermint candies without making a mess?
A great trick is to put the candies or candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This keeps the pieces contained and makes for quick, easy clean-up.
Can I make Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna a day ahead?
This dessert is actually better when prepared in advance! The flavors meld and the layers set up perfectly after chilling in the fridge overnight, so go ahead and assemble a day early if you like.
What if I can’t find peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can skip it and rely on the crushed peppermint candies for flavor, or try using another mint extract (like spearmint) at a reduced amount. Just be sure to taste and adjust so it’s not overpowering.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is the dessert everyone falls in love with at first bite—and the best part is how easy it is to make ahead for any gathering. Try this recipe and see how it brings joy, comfort, and a little bit of winter magic to your table. I just know it’ll become a seasonal favorite in your home, too!
Print
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful layers of creamy goodness with this Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna. A no-bake dessert perfect for the holiday season, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and refreshing peppermint in every bite.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos, crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the layers:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
For topping:
- Additional Cool Whip
- Crushed peppermint
- Chocolate shavings or syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix crushed cookies and melted butter, press into a 9×13-inch pan, and chill.
- Make the cream cheese layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract, then fold in half of Cool Whip and spread over the crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened, spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Finish with toppings: Add remaining Cool Whip, chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Add additional toppings before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, add a layer of chocolate chunks or chopped cookies between the pudding and topping.
- This dessert freezes well—just thaw slightly before slicing and serving.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *