Name: Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14.3 ounces package of Oreo cookies regular, not double stuffed; ½ cup melted margarine or butter; 8 ounces cream cheese softened; 8 ounces Cool Whip softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 5.1 ounces box instant vanilla pudding; 5.1 ounces box instant chocolate pudding; 3 cups milk; 8 ounces Cool Whip softened; 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies reserved from crust; Chocolate syrup; Chocolate curls or your favorite chocolate candy (optional)

There’s just something fun and indulgent about this layered dessert. The Chocolate Lasagna Recipe blends Oreo crunch, creamy cheese, and rich pudding into one irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, it’s worth every bite!

A square dessert with four layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark and crumbly, made of crushed cookies. Above it is a thick white cream layer, smooth and dense. Next, a rich chocolate layer adds a darker brown, silky texture. On top, there is another white cream layer, light and fluffy. The dessert is covered with tiny dark cookie crumbs and decorated with tight chocolate curls scattered on top and around the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Chocolate Lasagna Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Lasagna Recipe — it was an instant hit with friends and family. The layers make it feel fancy, but it’s really just super simple to assemble. It’s one of those desserts that feels like a celebration on a plate.

Easy no-bake layers: You don't need to turn on the oven to create this luscious dessert.
Perfect balance of textures: Crunchy Oreo crust meets smooth, creamy pudding layers.
Customizable and versatile: You can tweak add-ins and toppings to suit your mood or occasion.
Always a crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a party or a casual night, it disappears fast!

A square piece of layered dessert sits on a white plate with a white marbled background. The bottom layer is dark and crumbly, followed by a thick white creamy layer. Above this is a rich, smooth chocolate layer, topped again with a thin white cream layer. The top is covered with a dark crumbly texture, sprinkled generously with small chocolate curls that add a decorative touch. Some chocolate curls also scatter around the base on the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays a starring role to build this dreamy dessert. From the classic Oreo base to the creamy cheese layer, everything combines perfectly to give you that beautiful “lasagna” effect — layered, chilled, and delicious.

Flat lay of whole and crushed Oreo cookies, softened cream cheese, smooth cool whip dollops, instant vanilla pudding powder box, instant chocolate pudding powder box, a small glass of milk, melted butter in a clear dish, powdered sugar mound, chocolate syrup drizzle, and delicate chocolate curls scattered around, all beautifully arranged and contrasting with each other, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Oreo cookies: Provides the perfect crunchy base with just the right hint of chocolate. I always use regular Oreos, not double stuffed, for the best texture.
Margarine or butter: Melts into the crushed Oreos to create a firm, buttery crust that holds everything together.
Cream cheese: Adds tangy creaminess and richness to balance the sweet pudding layers.
Cool Whip: Lightens up the cream cheese and pudding, giving a fluffy finish to the layers.
Instant vanilla and chocolate pudding: The pudding mix makes this recipe insanely easy, with no cooking required—and combining both flavors keeps things interesting.
Milk: Essential for setting the pudding; cold milk works best for a smooth finish.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the creamy layer without any graininess.
Chocolate syrup and optional toppings: Adds a final glossy finish and extra chocolate flavor, plus the candy or curls make it pretty and festive.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

Whenever I make this Chocolate Lasagna Recipe, I love to toss in a handful of M&M’s or chopped nuts into the cream cheese layer for some surprise texture. But you can totally keep it classic or add your favorite candies for a personal twist.

Variation: One time, I swapped the Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream — it took the dessert to another level of decadence. You’ll enjoy experimenting with different frostings and toppings to make it truly your own.
Diet-Friendly: For a lighter touch, try reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mixes — still delicious but with fewer calories!
Seasonal sways: Add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes at the holidays for a festive spin.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Crafting that Oreo Crunchy Foundation

First, I throw the Oreos into a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. This method is a game changer because it gets the crumbs just right — not too chunky, not too powdery. If you don’t have one, no problem: pop the Oreos in a sealed Ziploc and crush with a rolling pin until you get even crumbs. Next, stir in the melted margarine or butter — this is what helps the crust hold together perfectly when pressed into your pan. Pat it down firmly in a 9×13-inch dish, then pop it into the fridge to chill for at least 10-15 minutes. This crust sets the stage for all your luscious layers.

Step 2: Whipping Up the Cream Cheese Layer

Once your crust is chilled, it’s time for a creamy dream: mix softened cream cheese, Cool Whip, and powdered sugar until silky smooth. This layer adds a velvety texture with just enough sweetness to balance the Oreo base. Spread it evenly over chilled crust, then back into the fridge it goes. Give it time to set—about 10-20 minutes works well—so the layers stay distinct when you cut into your dessert.

Step 3: Pouring on the Pudding Layers

Mix the instant vanilla and chocolate pudding powders with cold milk until thickened—usually about 5 minutes. This combo is what really makes this dessert feel special; the chocolate and vanilla meld together in creamy harmony. Gently spread this luscious pudding over the cream cheese layer. Patience here is key: after the pudding, chill the pan again to let everything firm up beautifully before the final touch.

Step 4: The Fluffy Final Touch

Last but certainly not least, spread the remaining Cool Whip over that pudding layer — fluffy, light, and lovely. Sprinkle on the reserved crushed Oreos for that irresistible crunch, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top for depth, and add chocolate curls or chopped chocolate candy if you want to get fancy. Then, refrigerate the whole thing until ready to serve. The best part? This beauty can chill and set for several hours or even overnight, allowing flavors to marry and layers to firm up like a dream.

Top Tip

From my experience, the secret to that gorgeous layered look in this Chocolate Lasagna Recipe is chilling each layer just long enough. It’s tempting to rush, but giving the crust and creamy layers time to set pays off with each beautiful slice.

Perfect Crust Setup: Don’t skip chilling the Oreo crust, or it won’t hold together when you cut into the dessert.
Mix Pudding Well: Use cold milk and whisk the puddings separately if needed—then combine for the best consistency.
Softened Cream Cheese Counts: Soft cream cheese blends smoothly with Cool Whip, avoiding lumps and ensuring a smooth layer.
Don’t Overdo the Toppings: Light drizzles of chocolate syrup make a difference, but too much can make it soggy.

How to Serve Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

I often stick to classic chocolate curls or a sprinkle of chopped chocolate candy on top for visual appeal — they add texture and the wow factor that guests notice first. Sometimes, I even pop a few fresh raspberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a hint of color and fresh bite.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side if you’re feeling extra indulgent. For celebrations, I like serving it alongside a fresh fruit platter to balance sweetness with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving this Chocolate Lasagna Recipe in individual glass cups or mason jars to show off those layers. It’s not only pretty but helps with portion control — plus, everyone feels they’re getting a personalized treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap before storing it in the fridge. It stays fresh and creamy for about 3 to 4 days — which is a miracle because mine usually disappears much faster! Just keep it chilled until serving.

Freezing

Freezing works surprisingly well—wrap the dessert tightly or portion it into airtight containers before freezing. When thawed overnight in the refrigerator, the texture remains pretty close to fresh. Just note that the Cool Whip can become a little watery after freezing, so I usually enjoy leftovers within a month for best quality.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, you’ll want to serve it cold. If you pulled it from the freezer, thaw it fully in the fridge and serve as is—no reheating needed. The flavors are best enjoyed cool and fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use double-stuffed Oreos for the crust?

While you technically can, I recommend using regular Oreos for the crust to avoid an overly sweet or too soft base. The standard Oreos create the best sturdy crunch that holds the layers well.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, preparing this Chocolate Lasagna Recipe a day ahead helps the layers meld together beautifully. Just keep it covered and chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream?

Yes! Homemade whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip for a fresher, richer taste, but keep in mind it won’t have quite the same stability. Serve sooner for best results.

What’s the easiest way to crush Oreos if I don’t have a food processor?

No processor? No problem! Place Oreos in a sturdy Ziploc bag, seal it tightly, and gently crush with a rolling pin or heavy saucepan until you get evenly fine crumbs—just as good for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Lasagna Recipe is honestly one of my go-to desserts when I want to impress with minimal effort. It’s that perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey that feels like a real treat every time. So next time you want to bring something special, try making it—you’ll love sharing this layered delight with friends and family as much as I do!