Introduction

This Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake Christmas dessert that’s as delicious as it is eye-catching. Layers of Oreo crust, peppermint cheesecake, creamy chocolate pudding, and whipped topping come together for a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings.

A rectangular dessert in a clear glass dish with three distinct layers: the bottom layer is dark and crumbly, likely chocolate or cookie crust; the middle layer is pink with pieces of red, appearing creamy and soft; the top layer is smooth and dark brown, resembling chocolate mousse or pudding. The dessert is topped with a thick white layer covered with crushed red and white peppermint candy pieces. A portion of the dessert has been removed, showing the clean cut and crumbly crumbs left in the dish. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

36 Oreo cookies
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
12 oz. brisk style cream cheese, room temperature
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 1/2 cups stabilized whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
2 packages (3.9 oz. each) instant chocolate pudding mix
2 3/4 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups whipped topping
1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, grind the whole Oreo cookies including the filling until fine. Add the melted butter and use a fork to whisk until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch dish. Place the dish in the fridge or freezer to chill.
Step 2: Unwrap the candy canes and place them in a zip-lock bag. Crush them using a rolling pin until you have coarse pieces.
Step 3: Beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth. Gently fold in the stabilized whipped topping until fully combined. Scrape down the bowl to ensure the mixture is smooth. Finally, mix in the crushed candy cane pieces. The mixture will turn a light pink; add a few drops of red or pink food coloring if you prefer a more intense color.
Step 4: Spread the peppermint cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Return the dish to the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set.
Step 5: Whisk the instant chocolate pudding mixes with the whole milk until the pudding begins to thicken. Spread the chocolate pudding layer over the peppermint cheesecake layer.
Step 6: Place the dessert in the fridge until the pudding layer has fully set. Then, spread the whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
Step 7: Chill the dessert for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight. Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes on top to avoid melting on the whipped topping.

Tips & Variations

Use stabilized whipped topping to help maintain texture and prevent the layers from becoming watery.
For a richer peppermint flavor, add extra peppermint extract cautiously to avoid overpowering.
If you want a stronger pink color, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the cheesecake layer.
Substitute crushed candy canes with peppermint bark or mint chocolate chips for a different texture.

Storage

Store this dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be chilled overnight for best results. When ready to serve, sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top to keep them crisp. Reheat is not applicable, as this is best served cold.

How to Serve

The image shows a thick square dessert on a white plate with three distinct layers. The bottom layer is dark and crumbly, looking like crushed cookies or chocolate crust. The middle layer is light pink with a soft, creamy texture, and small bits can be seen inside it. The top layer is a smooth, thick dark chocolate, covering the pink layer fully. On top, there is a thick layer of white cream with small, crushed red and white candy pieces spread evenly, adding color and texture. The background is a white marbled surface with faint holiday decorations blurred out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this no-bake dessert benefits from being made ahead and chilled overnight to let the layers fully set and flavors blend.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

While Oreo cookies give a classic flavor and texture, you can substitute with chocolate wafer cookies or another chocolate cookie of your choice for a unique twist.