If you are searching for a show-stopping dessert that brings together rich chocolate, creamy layers, and festive charm, look no further than this Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe. This no-bake treat is a delicious medley of crunchy cookie crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and luscious chocolate and vanilla puddings, all topped with colorful Easter candies that add a joyful pop. It’s ridiculously easy to make yet impressively indulgent, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season or any special occasion where you want a dessert that feels both comforting and celebratory.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe lies in its simple, approachable ingredients, each playing a key role to build texture and flavor harmony. From the crunchy chocolate cookie crust to the fluffy cream cheese layer and creamy pudding, these ingredients work together to create a no-fuss dessert that’s truly irresistible.
- Chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups): The foundation providing a chocolaty crunch and sturdy base for your layers.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Binds the cookie crumbs together, creating a firm crust that holds everything.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): Delivers a rich, smooth layer of chocolatey goodness.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): Adds a creamy, subtle contrast to the chocolate layer.
- Whole milk (3 cups): Necessary for perfectly setting your pudding layers.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Offers a velvety, slightly tangy richness to balance the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese layer.
- Whipped topping, thawed (8 oz): Lightens the cream cheese mixture, making every bite fluffy.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds delightful bursts of chocolate crunch.
- Easter candy for garnish: Pastel M&M’s, jelly beans, or Cadbury eggs bring festive colors and a whimsical touch.
How to Make Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
Begin by combining chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs with melted butter in a bowl until the mixture is evenly crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, which forms the base for your lasagna layers. Pop it into the fridge to set, giving you time to create the luscious fillings.
Step 2: Mix the Pudding Layers
While the crust chills, prepare your pudding mix bowls separately — chocolate pudding with 1 1/2 cups of milk and vanilla pudding with another 1 1/2 cups. Following the package instructions ensures silky, perfectly thickened puddings ready for layering.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth with an electric mixer, then add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create an airy, fluffy layer that will meld beautifully with the puddings.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
Take your set crust from the fridge and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it. Next, layer the chocolate pudding carefully on top, followed by the vanilla pudding. For added texture and a hint of extra chocolate, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top if you like.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Decorate the final layer with your favorite Easter candies — pastel M&M’s, jelly beans, or Cadbury mini eggs create a colorful and festive finishing touch. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the layers set and the flavors meld deliciously.
How to Serve Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Adding festive Easter candy on top turns this dessert into a celebration centerpiece. Beyond the mini chocolate chips, consider sprinkling chopped toasted nuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant twist that complements all the creamy textures.
Side Dishes
This rich, indulgent dessert pairs beautifully with lighter sides like fresh berries or a tangy citrus salad. Those bright, juicy flavors help balance the decadence and keep the palate refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe in individual glass cups for a charming look at a spring brunch or family gathering. Layering ingredients visibly in jars or clear dishes makes this dessert as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Easter Chocolate Lasagna should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerated. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it great for prepping ahead or enjoying as leftovers.
Freezing
While freezing this dessert is possible, it’s best to do so before garnishing with candies, which might lose their texture upon thawing. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating. If you prefer, bring it to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before slicing to make serving easier.
FAQs
Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While chocolate sandwich cookies create the perfect chocolatey base, you can try graham crackers or peanut butter cookies for a different flavor profile, although the texture will vary slightly.
Is this dessert suitable for kids?
Yes! The Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe is very kid-friendly thanks to its creamy layers and colorful candy toppings, making it a fun and delicious choice for Easter celebrations with children.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and a dairy-free whipped topping to make this dessert suitable for those with dairy restrictions, though pudding mixes might require specific dairy-free varieties.
How long should I refrigerate before serving?
At least 4 hours is recommended to allow the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld, but overnight refrigeration yields the best results for ease of slicing and delicious taste.
Can I add other flavors to the pudding?
Definitely! Try mixing a little espresso powder into the chocolate pudding for a mocha twist or fold crushed peppermint candies into the vanilla pudding for a refreshing holiday touch.
Final Thoughts
This Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe is a sweet and simple way to impress anyone at your holiday table. Its delightful layers and festive decorations make it the perfect treat to share with loved ones. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite tradition — so go ahead and make a batch to brighten your Easter celebrations with creamy, chocolaty joy!
Print
Easter Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Easter Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake, layered dessert combining a chocolate cookie crust, creamy layers of cream cheese and whipped topping, rich chocolate and vanilla pudding, and a colorful Easter candy garnish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this indulgent treat offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (like Oreos, crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pudding Layers
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups whole milk, divided (1 1/2 cups for each pudding)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For Garnish
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional for extra crunch)
- Easter candy for garnish (such as pastel M&M’s, jelly beans, or Cadbury eggs)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter. Stir until well combined and the mixture is crumbly. Press this cookie mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the pudding layers.
- Prepare the Pudding Layers: In separate bowls, make the chocolate pudding and vanilla pudding according to the package instructions, using 1 1/2 cups of milk for each. Once both puddings are set, set them aside for layering.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and continue beating until well combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Remove the cookie crust from the refrigerator. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Next, carefully spread the chocolate pudding layer over the cream cheese layer. Follow with an even layer of vanilla pudding on top of the chocolate pudding.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the pudding layers for a bit of crunch if desired. Then, garnish the top with your choice of festive Easter candy such as pastel M&M’s, jelly beans, or Cadbury mini eggs for a colorful, festive finish.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready, slice the lasagna into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cream layer.
- Use fresh pudding mixes for optimal texture and flavor.
- The dessert can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for holiday entertaining.
- Substitute low-fat milk to reduce calories, but texture may vary slightly.
- Optional mini chocolate chips add texture but can be omitted for a smoother dessert.
- Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies if a gluten-free version is desired.
