If you’re searching for a show-stopping holiday dessert that’s as easy to make as it is impressive, look no further than Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight. This cool and creamy no-bake treat layers chocolate sandwich cookies, peppermint-infused cream cheese, rich chocolate pudding, and clouds of whipped topping, all crowned with a flurry of chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. It’s a merry medley of flavors and textures designed to dazzle your guests and leave everyone reaching for seconds!

Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight lies in its simple, accessible ingredients. Each component brings something special to the table, whether it’s a burst of peppermint, a creamy bite, or a decadent chocolate crunch.

Chocolate sandwich cookies: These create a chocolatey, crunchy base that holds all the delicious layers together.
Unsalted butter: The melted butter binds the cookie crumbs, making a sturdy, flavorful crust.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling a rich, tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness.
Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the cream cheese layer without overpowering the peppermint flavor.
Milk: Used in both the creamy layer and to prepare the pudding, milk smooths out the textures and adds moisture.
Peppermint extract: A touch of this magical extract transforms the dessert into a true holiday treat—go easy for best results!
Whipped topping: Light and fluffy, whipped topping is used in both the creamy layers and as a beautiful garnish.
Instant chocolate pudding mix: Adds a luscious, rich chocolate layer that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Mini chocolate chips: These bring a little crunch and bursts of chocolate flavor in every bite.
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: For a festive pop of color and a delightful minty crunch on top.
Additional whipped topping and chocolate shavings: Finish your lasagna with an extra flourish for maximum holiday wow-factor.

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight

Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust

Start by crushing your chocolate sandwich cookies until they resemble fine crumbs—either with a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until every bit is coated, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. This forms the decadent, chocolatey foundation for your Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppermint Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, two tablespoons of milk, and peppermint extract until silky smooth. Go easy on the peppermint—it’s powerful! Gently fold in half of your whipped topping, then spread this minty, creamy mixture evenly over your cookie crust.

Step 3: Mix Up the Chocolate Pudding

Now, grab your instant chocolate pudding mix and whisk it with the cold milk for about two minutes. The pudding should thicken up nicely. Spread this rich, chocolatey layer over the peppermint cream cheese, smoothing it out to the edges.

Step 4: Layer on the Whipped Topping

Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer. This creates a fluffy, snowy blanket that’s just begging for festive garnishes.

Step 5: Add the Festive Toppings

Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes across the top, adding both visual flair and bursts of flavor. For next-level presentation, you can also add chocolate shavings and a little extra whipped topping before serving.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Patience is key! Refrigerate your Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight for at least four hours, or even better, overnight. This allows all the layers to set beautifully and makes for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight

Garnishes

Before serving, add a generous swirl of whipped topping, a few chocolate shavings, and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for that perfect holiday finish. Not only does it look absolutely stunning, but it adds extra texture and flavor to every bite.

Side Dishes

Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight shines bright on its own, but pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, peppermint tea, or a mug of cocoa. For a larger dessert table, consider serving alongside buttery shortbread cookies or fresh fruit to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try assembling individual portions in mason jars or parfait glasses for a party-ready twist! You can also cut the lasagna into mini squares and serve as part of a holiday dessert platter. However you slice it, this dessert is guaranteed to be a conversation starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the layers from drying out.

Freezing

This dessert freezes surprisingly well! Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. For best texture, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving—just note that some garnishes like crushed candy canes might dissolve a bit after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge or after a short rest at room temperature. If frozen, thaw gently in the refrigerator; avoid microwaving to keep the layers intact.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works wonderfully and lends a fresher, richer flavor. Just whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar until stiff peaks form, and use cup-for-cup in place of the store-bought topping.

How do I get clean slices when serving?

For the sharpest, cleanest slices, pop your lasagna in the freezer for 30 minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for picture-perfect portions every time.

Is there a gluten-free option for this dessert?

Yes! Simply swap the regular chocolate sandwich cookies for your favorite gluten-free version. Make sure your pudding mix and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a safe and delicious treat.

Can I make Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight ahead of time?

This dessert is actually better when made ahead! Assembling it the day before allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set firmly, making it even easier to slice and serve.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If you can’t find peppermint extract, you can use a few drops of mint extract instead, but start with less and taste as you go. Crushed candy canes also provide a natural peppermint flavor in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly no better way to capture the magic of the holidays than with a pan of Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight. It’s festive, foolproof, and irresistibly delicious—so gather your ingredients and share a slice of joy with family and friends this season!

Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna: A Festive Delight Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake layered dessert perfect for holiday celebrations. Featuring a rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy peppermint-flavored cream cheese layer, luscious chocolate pudding, and topped with whipped topping, mini chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies, it combines classic holiday flavors in a delightful, easy-to-make treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

36 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
4 oz whipped topping (half of the 8 oz package)

Chocolate Pudding Layer

1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
1¾ cups cold milk

Topping

4 oz whipped topping (remaining half of the 8 oz package)
1 cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Additional whipped topping and chocolate shavings for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the crust: Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin until finely crushed. Combine the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is well combined. Press this cookie crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
Make the cream cheese layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping (about 4 oz) until combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie crust layer.
Prepare the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 1¾ cups cold milk for approximately 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Spread the thickened pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
Add final toppings: Spread the remaining whipped topping (about 4 oz) evenly over the pudding layer. Sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled lasagna for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the layers to set properly.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, add additional whipped topping, chocolate shavings, and a light dusting of crushed peppermint on top for extra decoration and flavor.

Notes

Use peppermint extract sparingly as it is very potent and a little goes a long way.
You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the store-bought whipped topping for a fresher taste.
For cleaner, neater slices, consider freezing the lasagna for 30 minutes before cutting and serving.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American