Description
Indulge in the ultimate layered dessert with this Hot Chocolate Lasagna! Featuring an Oreo cookie crust, a creamy hot chocolate cheesecake filling, a rich chocolate pudding layer, and a fluffy whipped topping with marshmallows, this decadent treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any occasion that calls for a little bit of chocolate heaven!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 36 Oreo cookies (with filling), crushed into fine crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter
Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 packets hot chocolate mix
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Topping:
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Preparation:
Crust:
- Step 1: Crush the Oreo cookies: Place the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they are reduced to fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Step 2: Combine the crust ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo crumbs and the melted unsalted butter. Mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Step 3: Press the crust: Press the Oreo mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even, compact layer.
- Step 4: Chill the crust: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the next layer. This will help the crust set and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:
- Step 1: Beat cream cheese and butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps.
- Step 2: Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined and the mixture is light and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can make the mixture too thin.
- Step 3: Prepare hot chocolate whipped cream: In a separate, clean bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Add the six packets of hot chocolate mix. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream and hot chocolate mix together until stiff peaks form. This may take a few minutes, so be patient.
- Step 4: Combine cheesecake and whipped cream: Gently fold the hot chocolate whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped cream and make the cheesecake layer less fluffy.
- Step 5: Assemble the layer: Spread the hot chocolate cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the layer is smooth and covers the entire crust.
- Step 6: Chill again: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and return it to the fridge to set for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This will help the layers stay distinct when serving.
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- Step 1: Prepare the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens. This should only take a minute or two.
- Step 2: Fold in marshmallows: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows into the chocolate pudding. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the marshmallows to dissolve and make the pudding runny.
- Step 3: Assemble the layer: Spread the chocolate pudding layer evenly over the hot chocolate cheesecake layer. Again, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the layer is smooth and covers the entire surface.
- Step 4: Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the pudding layer is set. This will prevent the topping from mixing with the pudding layer.
Topping:
- Step 1: Spread whipped topping: Spread the thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip) evenly over the pudding layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
- Step 2: Add marshmallows and chocolate syrup: Sprinkle the remaining mini marshmallows on top of the whipped topping. Drizzle with chocolate syrup, if desired.
Chill and Serve:
- Step 1: Chill: Chill the lasagna for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results. The longer the lasagna chills, the better the layers will set, and the easier it will be to cut and serve.
- Step 2: Serve: Cut the Hot Chocolate Lasagna into squares and serve chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers: Every bite is a symphony of flavors and textures.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and requires no baking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for preparing in advance.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your favorite flavors and toppings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dust with cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Use high-quality hot chocolate mix for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake or pudding layers, as this can result in a thinner consistency.
- Chill the lasagna for as long as possible to allow the layers to set properly.
- For a cleaner cut, run a knife under hot water before slicing.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes Chill Time: 4 hours+ Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes+
Nutritional Information: (Estimates can vary based on specific brands and ingredient amounts)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 200-300mg per serving
Conclusion
This Hot Chocolate Lasagna is the perfect dessert to impress your friends and family. Its layers of deliciousness make it a standout treat for any occasion. So go ahead, indulge in this chocolatey dream and create unforgettable moments!
Q&A
Q1: Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
A: Absolutely! While Oreos provide a classic chocolatey base, feel free to experiment with other cookies like chocolate chip cookies, graham crackers (with a little cocoa powder added), or even vanilla wafers. Just make sure to adjust the amount of butter as needed to achieve the right consistency for pressing into the pan.
Q2: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, definitely! In fact, making it ahead of time is highly recommended. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the layers set up perfectly. You can prepare the entire lasagna up to 24-48 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q3: Is it possible to freeze this dessert?
A: Yes, you can freeze Hot Chocolate Lasagna. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Q4: Can I use sugar-free pudding mix or Cool Whip to make this healthier?
A: Yes, you can! Substituting sugar-free pudding mix and light or sugar-free Cool Whip will significantly reduce the sugar content of the lasagna. The taste and texture may be slightly different, but it’s a great way to enjoy a lighter version of this dessert.
Q5: Can I add other toppings besides marshmallows and chocolate syrup?
A: Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding crushed peppermint candies (especially during the holidays), chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, caramel sauce, or even fresh berries. The possibilities are endless!
