Chocolate Lasagna is one of those magical no-bake desserts that looks fancy, tastes indulgent, and somehow manages to come together with minimal effort. With layers of crushed Oreos, creamy cheesecake filling, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping, it’s like a party in every bite—and it doesn’t even require an oven.
If you’ve never tried this chilled, crowd-pleasing dessert, you’re in for a treat. It’s a layered chocolate pudding dessert that’s cool, creamy, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just craving something decadent without the fuss, this easy chocolate lasagna recipe delivers every time.
If you’re a fan of layered chocolate desserts, don’t miss our marshmallow chocolate poke cake for another easy no-bake classic.
What Is Chocolate Lasagna?
What Makes Chocolate Lasagna a Crowd-Favorite Dessert
Chocolate lasagna is a no-bake, layered dessert made with a crushed Oreo base, a whipped cream cheese layer, chocolate pudding, and a light topping of whipped cream or Cool Whip. Despite the name, there’s no pasta or marinara involved—it simply mimics the layered look of traditional lasagna.
It’s rich, fluffy, chocolaty, and cool. Each layer brings a new texture: crunchy, creamy, smooth, and airy. And the best part? It only takes about 20 minutes of prep and a bit of chill time to set.
Why It’s Called “Lasagna” (Even Without Pasta)
Much like traditional lasagna layers noodles, sauce, and cheese, chocolate lasagna builds layers of contrasting sweetness. In this dessert, “lasagna” describes the layered assembly, not the ingredients. The cookie crust acts as the base layer—your “noodle,” the cream cheese mixture plays the role of “ricotta,” and the chocolate pudding stands in for the “sauce.”
It’s dessert comfort food in every sense—easy to slice, simple to serve, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients Breakdown & Smart Substitutes
Core Ingredients You’ll Need for Chocolate Lasagna
The beauty of Chocolate Lasagna lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and there’s no baking required. Each layer is made from pantry staples you may already have on hand:
| Ingredient | Purpose in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Oreos | Crushed to make a firm, flavorful crust |
| Butter | Binds the crust (salted preferred for balance) |
| Cream Cheese | Creates the creamy, cheesecake-like middle layer |
| Powdered Sugar | Sweetens the cream cheese without graininess |
| Milk | Thins the cream cheese mixture & activates pudding |
| Cool Whip | Lightens the filling and forms the top layer |
| Chocolate Pudding Mix | Delivers rich chocolate flavor and silky texture |
| Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) | Adds crunch and decoration on top |
Pro Tip: Use regular Oreos, not double-stuffed. Too much filling can make the crust greasy and less stable.
Easy Substitutions (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Lower Sugar)
Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just want to lighten it up, there are easy ways to modify your Chocolate Lasagna recipe:
| Need | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies instead of Oreos |
| Dairy-Free | Swap cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and Cool Whip with coconut whip |
| Low-Sugar | Use sugar-free pudding mix and stevia-sweetened chocolate chips |
| Nut-Free | This recipe is naturally nut-free unless toppings are added |
Even with these swaps, you can still achieve the same luscious texture and chocolatey flavor that makes Chocolate Lasagna a winning dessert.
How to Make Chocolate Lasagna (Step-by-Step)
Making Chocolate Lasagna is a breeze. You’ll layer everything in a single 9×13-inch pan, chill, and then slice it into squares. No baking. No stress. Just pure chocolatey satisfaction.
Step 1: Create the Oreo Crust Base
Start by crushing about 36 regular Oreos in a food processor (or use a zip-top bag and rolling pin). You want fine crumbs—almost powdery. In a mixing bowl, stir the crumbs with ½ cup melted salted butter until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Chill in the fridge for 5–10 minutes to let the crust set.
Note: Avoid using double-stuffed Oreos. Too much filling makes the crust soft and greasy.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl:
- Beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 tablespoons milk and ¼ cup powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip to lighten the mixture.
Spread the cream cheese layer gently over the chilled Oreo crust. Return to the fridge for another 5–10 minutes to help it firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 (3.9 oz) packages instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 ¾ cups cold milk
Whisk for 2–3 minutes until thick. Let it sit for another 1–2 minutes to fully set. Then, gently spread over the cream cheese layer.
Refrigerate for about 10 minutes, or until the pudding firms up slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers + Chill
Top the pudding layer with the remaining Cool Whip (about 1½ cups). Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Finish with your favorite topping:
- Mini chocolate chips
- Crushed Oreos
- Chocolate shavings
- Chocolate drizzle
Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours (overnight is even better) to help everything set beautifully.
Looking for other layered treats? Try our reader-favorite banana chocolate chip cookies for a baked option.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Texture
The secret to truly irresistible Chocolate Lasagna is getting those layers just right. From smooth spreading to firm chilling, these expert tips ensure your dessert looks as good as it tastes.
How to Keep Layers Distinct and Set Firmly
One of the biggest challenges with layered desserts is keeping them clean and well-defined. Here’s how to make sure your Chocolate Lasagna stacks up beautifully:
- Chill between each layer: After spreading the Oreo crust, cream cheese mixture, and pudding, refrigerate for 5–10 minutes between layers to help them firm up and avoid sinking.
- Use softened cream cheese: to avoid lumps—let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or follow this guide on how to soften cream cheese quickly and safely.
- Fold Cool Whip gently: Avoid overmixing to maintain that light, airy texture.
- Spread evenly: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to make each layer uniform from edge to edge.
Patience pays off. Letting each layer settle before adding the next creates that classic “lasagna” look—without the mess.
Refrigeration vs. Freezer: Which Works Best?
Refrigeration is best for texture and flavor. A minimum of 3–4 hours in the fridge allows all the layers to set without becoming icy.
- Want clean slices? Chill overnight.
- In a hurry? Pop it in the freezer for 30–40 minutes to speed up firming (but don’t freeze long-term—it may affect texture).
Bonus tip: Use a warm knife to slice your chilled Chocolate Lasagna for clean edges.
Love chilled chocolate desserts? Check out our chocolate chip zucchini bread for a more traditional, baked twist.
Fun Variations to Try
One of the best things about Chocolate Lasagna is how easy it is to customize. Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, you can create all kinds of exciting flavor combinations—perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just switching things up.
Mint Chocolate Lasagna
Add a refreshing twist by replacing the regular Oreos with mint Oreos and using a few drops of peppermint extract in the cream cheese layer.
- Optional: Top with chopped Andes mints or mint chocolate chips for an extra burst of minty flavor
- Tip: Adding green food coloring to the cream cheese layer creates a fun, festive look—ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or winter celebrations
Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna
Love peanut butter cups? Then this variation is for you.
- Add ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture
- Use peanut butter Oreos for the crust
- Top with chopped peanut butter cups or a drizzle of melted PB and chocolate
It’s sweet, salty, and utterly decadent.
Nutella or Mocha Twists
For a European-style spin on Chocolate Lasagna:
- Swap peanut butter for Nutella in the filling
- Create a mocha version by incorporating 1 teaspoon of instant espresso into the pudding mixture
- Add shaved chocolate or crushed hazelnuts on top
These small tweaks create a totally new dessert experience, without adding extra prep time.
Other Flavor Ideas
| Theme | Flavor Add-In Ideas |
|---|---|
| S’mores | Graham cracker crust, mini marshmallows, chocolate drizzle |
| Mocha | Instant espresso powder in pudding, dark chocolate chips |
| Berry Bliss | Layer in fresh raspberries or strawberries before whipped topping |
| Cookies & Cream | Add crushed cookies between the pudding and Cool Whip layers |
No matter which version you try, Chocolate Lasagna remains rich, creamy, and irresistibly indulgent—just the way a layered dessert should be.
Want more sweet surprises? Try pairing it with our cheesy and salty cheesy breadsticks for an unexpected flavor contrast.
Storage Tips & Make-Ahead Instructions
How Long Can You Store Chocolate Lasagna in the Fridge?
Chocolate Lasagna stores beautifully—one of the many reasons it’s a go-to dessert for entertaining or prepping ahead.
- Fridge shelf life: 4 to 5 days
- Best texture window: Within the first 48 hours
- Keep it covered: Always store tightly covered with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent the whipped topping from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for the creamiest, most cohesive slice.
Can You Freeze Chocolate Lasagna? Yes—Here’s How
If you want to make Chocolate Lasagna even further in advance, freezing is a smart option. The texture changes slightly but still holds up well.
How to freeze it properly:
- Assemble the full dessert in a freezer-safe dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then add a layer of foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
When ready to serve:
- Thaw overnight in the fridge
- Do not microwave—it can ruin the creamy layers
If you’re freezing individual slices, use parchment paper between them to keep them from sticking.
Make-Ahead Tips for Entertaining
Planning ahead for a party? Chocolate Lasagna is ideal because it actually gets better as it chills.
| Prep Window | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 day ahead | Assemble and refrigerate overnight |
| 2–3 days ahead | Prep and freeze, then thaw overnight |
| Same day | Assemble early morning, chill 4+ hours |
Want a savory meal before dessert? Serve it after something bold and balanced like our ground beef bulgogi to round out the menu.
Chocolate Lasagna vs. Olive Garden Dessert
What Is Olive Garden’s Chocolate Lasagna?
If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden and spotted their Chocolate Lasagna on the dessert menu, you may be wondering how it compares to a traditional layered chocolate dessert.
Olive Garden’s version is not a pudding-based dessert—it’s actually more of a layered chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and crunchy chocolate shavings on top. The layers are rich and dense, striking a balance between a frosted cake and a brownie. It’s served chilled, with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a dollop of whipped topping.
It’s indulgent, rich, and beautiful—but quite different from the no-bake Chocolate Lasagna most people make at home.
Key Differences in Texture, Flavor, and Presentation
| Feature | Homemade Chocolate Lasagna | Olive Garden Version |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy, smooth, pudding-like layers | Dense cake-like layers |
| Flavor base | Chocolate pudding, cream cheese, Cool Whip | Rich chocolate cake and frosting |
| Toppings | Chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, whipped topping | Chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, crunchy curls |
| Preparation | No-bake, chilled for a few hours | Baked, likely made in-house or commercially |
So, while the names are the same, the desserts are totally different experiences. If you’re looking for something no-bake, creamy, and light—homemade Chocolate Lasagna is your go-to.
What’s the Crunchy Stuff in Olive Garden’s Chocolate Lasagna?
Many fans of Olive Garden’s dessert wonder about the crunchy topping. It’s typically dark chocolate shavings or chocolate curls that add texture and visual appeal. Some versions also feature chocolate pearls or crisped rice for added crunch.
You can replicate this topping at home by:
- Using a veggie peeler on a chocolate bar to make curls
- Chilling them before adding to your homemade Chocolate Lasagna
- Sprinkle crushed chocolate wafers or cocoa nibs on top for a similar crunchy bite
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put chocolate in lasagna?
Yes—but not in traditional savory lasagna. In desserts like Chocolate Lasagna, chocolate is the main star in the form of pudding, chips, and cookies. While savory lasagna layers pasta and tomato sauce, chocolate lasagna layers Oreo crust, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping.
What is Olive Garden chocolate lasagna?
Olive Garden’s chocolate lasagna is a multi-layered chocolate cake dessert, featuring layers of rich cake and chocolate frosting, topped with chocolate shavings. It’s different from no-bake Chocolate Lasagna, which uses pudding and cream cheese instead of cake layers.
What is in chocolate lasagna?
Homemade Chocolate Lasagna includes:
- Crushed Oreos and melted butter for the crust
- A sweetened cream cheese and Cool Whip layer
- Instant chocolate pudding
- Whipped topping and chocolate chips or shavings on top
It’s a no-bake dessert that’s creamy, chocolaty, and ultra-layered.
What is the crunchy stuff in Olive Garden chocolate lasagna?
The crunchy topping on Olive Garden’s chocolate lasagna is usually dark chocolate curls or shavings, which add texture and decoration. Some versions may include chocolate pearls or crisped chocolate layers for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, potluck, or just want to impress guests with minimal effort, Chocolate Lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s creamy, rich, chilled, and totally indulgent—yet simple enough for a beginner baker.
This no-bake layered dessert combines textures beautifully: a crunchy Oreo crust, smooth cream cheese filling, velvety pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. It slices clean, travels well, and looks as good as it tastes.
Print
Chocolate Lasagna
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Lasagna is a no-bake layered dessert with crushed Oreos, sweetened cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. Easy and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
36 regular Oreos (not double-stuffed)
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
3 cups Cool Whip (divided)
2 (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mixes
2 3/4 cups cold milk
Mini chocolate chips or shaved chocolate (optional topping)
Instructions
1. Crush Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press into a greased 13×9-inch pan and chill 5–10 minutes.
2. Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add milk and powdered sugar. Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip. Spread over Oreo crust. Chill again for 5–10 minutes.
3. Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Spread over cream layer. Chill 10 minutes.
4. Top with remaining Cool Whip. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or shaved chocolate.
5. Refrigerate for 3–4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use regular Oreos, not double-stuffed, for a firm crust.
Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes for smooth blending.
Chill between layers to help them set evenly.
Freeze for up to 1 month in a covered dish; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 210
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 39
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 20