Introduction

Hot Chocolate Lasagna is a rich, layered dessert that combines the flavors of Oreo cookies, creamy hot chocolate cheesecake mousse, smooth chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream. Topped with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate or Nutella, this no-bake treat is perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions.

The image shows a square dessert dish with three clear layers visible after a slice is taken out. The bottom layer is a dark, crumbly chocolate crust, the middle layer is a light creamy mixture with some chocolate streaks, and the top layer is a smooth, glossy milk chocolate layer. On top, there are many small, white marshmallows scattered unevenly, some slightly dusted with light brown powder. In the background, you can see a white glass of milk and a white cookie on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Oreo Crust:

36 Oreo cookies (with filling)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Mousse Layer:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 envelopes (0.73 oz each) instant hot cocoa mix (milk chocolate flavor)
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

2 boxes (3.8 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
2 ¾ cups milk
1 cup mini marshmallows

For the Topping:

1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream (or 2 ½ cups whipped cream)
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
2 cups mini marshmallows
Chocolate topping or Nutella (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Start by preparing the Oreo crust. Use a food processor to grind the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs, then stir in the melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish. Chill in the fridge or freezer while preparing the next layers.
Step 2: Make the hot chocolate cheesecake mousse layer. Beat softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant hot cocoa mix together until smooth but not runny. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold half the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture, then fold in the remaining half. Spread the mousse evenly over the chilled Oreo crust and return to the fridge.
Step 3: Prepare the chocolate pudding layer by whisking the pudding mix with milk until it thickens. Gently stir in the mini marshmallows. Spread this mixture evenly over the mousse layer and chill again until firm.
Step 4: While the pudding sets, make the whipped cream topping. Beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Once the pudding layer is firm, spread the whipped cream evenly on top.
Step 5: Finish by sprinkling mini marshmallows over the whipped cream. For added indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or Nutella before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger hot chocolate flavor, double the amount of instant hot cocoa mix in the mousse, but be careful as too much cocoa can affect texture.
If you want to switch up the crust, try graham crackers or another chocolate cookie instead of Oreos.
This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Chill overnight to allow all layers to set well and enhance the flavors.
Add crushed peppermint candies for a festive twist or drizzle caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
If you prefer, you can make your own chocolate pudding from scratch instead of using instant pudding mix.

Storage

Store the Hot Chocolate Lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the whipped cream topping and mousse layers can lose their consistency.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a layered dessert in a white rectangular dish shows three distinct layers; the bottom layer is dark and crumbly, resembling a chocolate cookie crust, the middle layer is light with a creamy texture, likely a whipped filling, and the top layer is smooth, shiny, and milk chocolate brown, finished with a generous topping of soft, white mini marshmallows scattered unevenly across the surface. The dessert slice has been cut from the corner, revealing the neat layers and some crumbs gathered at the dish's edge. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with part of a cookie and a glass of milk blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Hot Chocolate Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert is ideal for making a day ahead. Simply prepare all layers and chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up perfectly.

What can I substitute for instant hot cocoa mix?

If you don’t have instant hot cocoa mix, you can use a combination of cocoa powder and powdered sugar to taste, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly from the original recipe.