Description
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake dessert featuring layers of chocolate cookie crust, creamy peppermint filling, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping, garnished with crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings. It’s a perfect treat for holiday gatherings, offering a delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint flavors in a simple, make-ahead dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), finely crushed
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Peppermint Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- A few drops of red food coloring (optional)
- 2 cups whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Topping & Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted butter until the mixture is well blended and crumbly.
- Form the Crust: Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust layer. Refrigerate to set while you prepare the other layers.
- Make the Peppermint Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor and Color: Stir in the peppermint extract and add a few drops of red food coloring if desired for a festive touch.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Fold in 2 cups of the whipped topping gently to combine without deflating the mixture. Spread this peppermint filling evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens.
- Layer the Pudding: Spread the thickened chocolate pudding evenly over the peppermint filling.
- Add the Topping: Spread the remaining 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer to create a creamy top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the whipped topping, and add chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips if desired for extra decoration and flavor.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the entire lasagna for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
- Serve: Slice the chilled lasagna into squares and serve cold for a refreshing and festive dessert experience.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly crushed cookies to avoid sogginess in the crust.
- If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, adjust the peppermint extract to taste, but be cautious as it can be potent.
- Optional red food coloring helps make the peppermint layer visually festive but can be omitted without affecting taste.
- This dessert should be kept refrigerated and is best consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- To speed up chilling, you can place the dish in the freezer for 1-2 hours but keep an eye to prevent freezing.
