If you are looking for a festive and indulgent treat this holiday season, the Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This layered delight combines the rich crunch of Oreo crust, the creamy burst of peppermint cheesecake, the smoothness of chocolate pudding, and the light fluffiness of whipped topping, all finished with crushed candy canes for that perfect peppermint kick. It’s a no-bake dessert that impresses with every bite, making it perfect for Christmas gatherings or any time you crave a sweet and minty escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in layering flavor, texture, and festive charm. The simple yet essential components work together to create a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting.
- Oreo cookies (36): These form a rich, chocolaty crust foundation packed with familiar goodness.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Helps bind the Oreo crumbs into a firm and buttery crust.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the peppermint cheesecake layer.
- Brisk style cream cheese, room temperature (12 oz): The creamy base for the luscious cheesecake layer.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the cheesecake while ensuring a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Balances and deepens the overall flavor.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): Delivers festive peppermint flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
- Stabilized whipped topping (1 1/2 cups): Adds lightness and fluff to the cheesecake layer, helping it set well.
- Crushed candy canes (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): Adds a crunchy, colorful decoration and that signature peppermint snap.
- Instant chocolate pudding (2 packages, 3.9 oz each): Creates a smooth, chocolatey layer that complements the peppermint perfectly.
- Whole milk (2 3/4 cups): Used to prepare the pudding for a rich and creamy texture.
- Whipped topping (2 1/2 cups): The airy final layer that leaves every spoonful light and dreamy.
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Create the Oreo Crust
First, pulse the whole Oreo cookies in a food processor until finely ground. All that creamy goodness inside the cookies gets blended in for extra flavor. Next, stir in the melted unsalted butter to moisten the crumbs. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch dish to form your crust. This layer sets the stage, so chill it in the fridge or freezer to get it nicely firm.
Step 2: Prepare the Crushed Candy Canes
Unwrap your candy canes and pop them into a zip-lock bag. Grab a rolling pin and crush them into coarse pieces — these will add both stunning color and delightful crunch to your dessert.
Step 3: Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the stabilized whipped topping to keep the cheesecake light and fluffy. Add in the crushed candy cane pieces and watch the mixture turn a lovely light pink. If you prefer a pop of color, a drop or two of red or pink food coloring will do the trick perfectly.
Step 4: Spread and Chill the Cheesecake Layer
Evenly spread the peppermint cheesecake mixture over your chilled Oreo crust. To help it set firmly, pop the dish back in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. This step ensures your layers hold their shape beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Whisk together both packages of instant chocolate pudding with the whole milk until you notice it starting to thicken. This creamy chocolate layer adds a smooth richness that pairs wonderfully with the refreshing peppermint.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Carefully dollop and spread the chocolate pudding over the now-firm peppermint cheesecake layer. Smooth it out and transfer the whole dish to the fridge, allowing the pudding to fully set and develop its luscious texture.
Step 7: Spread the Whipped Topping
Once the pudding is set, gently spread 2 1/2 cups of whipped topping evenly across the top. This fresh whipped layer adds softness and a cloud-like finish that makes each forkful irresistible.
Step 8: Chill for Optimal Flavor
Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 5 hours, but ideally overnight. This step lets all the flavors blend and the layers firm up perfectly for that classic lasagna effect.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes on top for a festive look and extra peppermint crunch. Keep your Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe chilled until ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the crushed candy canes topping the dessert, consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few whole fresh peppermint leaves for a pop of green and a fresh aroma. Chocolate shavings or mini peppermint candies also work beautifully if you want to mix it up visually and texturally.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich and refreshing on its own, but pairing it with something light like a crisp fruit salad or a simple citrus sorbet can balance the creamy decadence. A cup of peppermint tea or a cappuccino rounds out the experience with complementary warm or minty notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe in clear glass dishes or trifle bowls to showcase its striking layers. You can also prepare individual servings in mason jars or small parfait glasses, making it easy to share and visually delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and store them in the refrigerator. The dessert stays fresh for up to 4 days, offering convenience and continued deliciousness through your holiday celebrations or beyond.
Freezing
You can freeze the Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe for up to 1 month. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating
This is a cold dessert best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Simply thaw and enjoy it as a refreshing, cool treat that melts in your mouth with every bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular Oreos for any other cookie?
Absolutely! While Oreos provide a classic chocolate crunch, you can experiment with chocolate graham crackers or even chocolate chip cookies for a different texture and taste. Just be sure to finely crush them to form a sturdy crust.
What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?
If peppermint extract is not available, you can use vanilla extract alone for a milder flavor or try a small amount of mint extract. Just be cautious, as mint extract tends to be stronger and can overpower the dessert.
Is it necessary to stabilize the whipped topping?
Using stabilized whipped topping helps the cheesecake layer maintain its structure, especially since this is a no-bake dessert. If you prefer, you can try homemade stabilized whipped cream, but avoid regular whipped cream as it may not hold up as well.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, and non-dairy milk for the pudding, you could adapt this recipe. However, the texture and taste might vary slightly, so testing is recommended for the best results.
How can I make the dessert more colorful?
Adding a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the peppermint cheesecake layer is an easy trick to brighten the look. Also consider layering crushed green mint candies or red sprinkles alongside the candy canes for extra color contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe is a perfect festive treat that combines irresistible flavors with simple preparation. Its no-bake nature makes it convenient, while every creamy, crunchy layer delights your taste buds and adds holiday cheer. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering—you’ll find it’s not just a dessert but an experience everyone will remember and ask for year after year.
Print
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna – Easy No Bake Christmas Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chocolate Peppermint Lasagna is a festive, no-bake Christmas dessert featuring layers of Oreo crust, peppermint cream cheese mixture, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping, all garnished with crushed candy canes for a crunchy and refreshing holiday treat.
Ingredients
Oreo Crust
- 36 Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Peppermint Cheesecake Layer
- 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
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 2 x 3.9 oz packages instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
Topping
- 2 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare Oreo Crust: In a food processor, pulse whole Oreo cookies including cream filling until finely ground. Mix with melted butter using a fork until crumbs are evenly moistened. Firmly press mixture into bottom of a 9 x 13 inch dish. Chill in fridge or freezer.
- Crush Candy Canes: Unwrap candy canes, place in zip-lock bag, and crush into coarse pieces using a rolling pin. Set aside.
- Make Peppermint Cheesecake Mixture: Beat softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and peppermint extracts until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in stabilized whipped topping until evenly combined. Fold in crushed candy canes. Optionally add red or pink food coloring for vibrant color.
- Assemble Peppermint Layer: Spread peppermint cheesecake mixture evenly over chilled Oreo crust. Return dish to freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare Chocolate Pudding: Whisk instant chocolate pudding mixes with 2 3/4 cups whole milk until mixture begins to thicken.
- Add Pudding Layer: Spread chocolate pudding carefully over peppermint cheesecake layer. Refrigerate until pudding is fully set.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Evenly spread 2 1/2 cups whipped topping over set pudding layer.
- Chill Completed Dessert: Refrigerate for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight, to develop flavors and set layers.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle 1/4 cup crushed candy canes on top for a festive crunch. Keep stored in refrigerator until serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use stabilized whipped topping such as Cool Whip to maintain structure and prevent weeping.
- For a more festive look, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to the peppermint cheesecake layer.
- Make sure to chill each layer properly to ensure clean, distinct layers.
- Keep dessert refrigerated until serving to preserve texture and taste.
- Crush candy canes coarsely for texture contrast rather than finely powdering them.
