Hot Chocolate Lasagna – A No-Bake Chocolate Lover’s Dream

If you love hot chocolate and decadent layered desserts, Hot Chocolate Lasagna is about to become your new favorite treat. This no-bake dessert transforms the cozy flavors of classic hot cocoa into a rich, creamy, sliceable masterpiece that’s perfect for holidays, winter gatherings, and chocolate cravings of all kinds.

Hot chocolate lasagna features irresistible layers: a buttery chocolate cookie crust, a smooth hot chocolate–inspired cream cheese layer, a rich chocolate pudding layer, and a fluffy whipped topping crowned with chocolate curls or marshmallows. Every forkful delivers pure comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence—without turning on the oven.

This dessert is especially popular during the colder months when cozy flavors shine. It’s easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it at a Christmas party, potluck, or family dinner, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.


Why You’ll Love Hot Chocolate Lasagna

This dessert checks all the boxes:

  • No baking required
  • Perfect make-ahead dessert
  • Rich but balanced layers
  • Crowd-pleasing chocolate flavor
  • Ideal for holidays and winter parties

It’s indulgent without being overwhelming and looks stunning when sliced.


Ingredients

Chocolate Cookie Crust

  • Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
  • Unsalted butter, melted

Hot Chocolate Cream Layer

  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Powdered sugar
  • Hot chocolate mix
  • Milk

Chocolate Pudding Layer

  • Chocolate pudding mix
  • Cold milk

Topping

  • Whipped topping
  • Mini marshmallows or chocolate shavings
  • Chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, hot chocolate mix, and milk; mix until creamy.
  3. Spread hot chocolate cream layer evenly over the chilled crust.
  4. Whisk chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Let sit 5 minutes.
  5. Spread pudding layer gently over the cream layer.
  6. Top evenly with whipped topping.
  7. Garnish with marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or chocolate chips.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing and serving.

Hot Chocolate Lasagna

A no-bake layered dessert inspired by classic hot chocolate, featuring a chocolate cookie crust, creamy layers, and fluffy topping.
Prep Time 25 minutes
chill time 4 hours
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 36 chocolate sandwich cookies crushed
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 0.75 cup hot chocolate mix
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 2 packages chocolate pudding mix instant
  • 3 cups milk cold
  • 8 oz whipped topping

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer
  • 9×13-inch baking dish

Method
 

  1. Mix cookie crumbs and butter; press into dish and chill.
  2. Beat cream cheese, sugar, cocoa mix, and milk until smooth.
  3. Spread cream layer over crust.
  4. Prepare pudding with milk and spread over cream layer.
  5. Top with whipped topping and garnish.
  6. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

Chill thoroughly for clean layers and best flavor.

Tips for the Best Hot Chocolate Lasagna

  • Chill each layer briefly for clean slicing
  • Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture
  • Let pudding fully set before layering
  • Garnish just before serving for best look
  • Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts

Variations to Try

  • Peppermint Hot Chocolate Lasagna: Add peppermint extract
  • Marshmallow Lovers: Add marshmallow fluff layer
  • Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark cocoa mix
  • White Hot Chocolate: Use white chocolate pudding
  • Mint Chocolate Chip: Add mint chips to topping

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled for best texture
  • Pair with coffee or hot cocoa
  • Perfect for holiday dessert tables
  • Cut into small squares for parties
  • Add festive sprinkles for kids

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Up to 1 month (wrap tightly)
  • Best made the day before serving

Cultural Context & Fun Facts

Dessert “lasagnas” became popular in American home kitchens as no-bake, layered alternatives to traditional cakes. Hot chocolate lasagna is a seasonal favorite, capturing the comforting flavor of cocoa in an eye-catching, shareable format.

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