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
Scale
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.
