Oreo Lasagna is a fun and layered dessert that’s sure to please all chocolate lovers! With creamy cheese filling, crushed Oreos, and whipped topping, it’s a treat for the eyes and taste buds.
This dessert is perfect for gatherings, and it’s so easy to make! Just layer the goodies and let it chill. Plus, it’s hard to resist stealing a piece (or two) right out of the pan! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: The base of this dessert relies on classic Oreo cookies. If you want a fun twist, consider using other flavored Oreos like peppermint or peanut butter. Gluten-free alternatives are available as well, just make sure to check the packaging.
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter gives the crust a rich flavor. If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, coconut oil can be a good substitute. Just melt it and use it in the same way.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese provides a creamy texture that’s essential for this dessert. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cream cheese. It works similarly and won’t alter the taste too much.
Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix: This adds a rich chocolate layer, but if you want a less sweet option, you can use vanilla pudding instead. Adding cocoa powder to vanilla pudding creates a chocolate version without using pre-made mixes!
Cool Whip: This lightens the cream cheese mixture. For a healthier choice, you can substitute it with a homemade whipped cream made from heavy cream or use a sugar-free whipped topping.
How Do I Achieve a Perfect No-Bake Layered Dessert?
Layering desserts can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro! Each layer needs to be evenly spread to maintain structure. Here’s how:
- Start with a firmly pressed crust. Use a measuring cup to press it down evenly in the pan.
- When making the cream cheese layer, beat the mixture until it’s completely smooth. This avoids lumps.
- Spread with care. Use an offset spatula to level each layer for a neat look.
- Make sure to chill the dessert long enough! An overnight rest helps the layers set properly and meld flavors.
By following these tips, you’ll get a beautifully layered Oreo lasagna that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Oreo Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 package (15.35 oz) Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cool whip or whipped topping
For The Pudding Layer:
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
For The Topping:
- 1 cup additional cool whip or whipped topping
- Crushed Oreo cookies for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Oreo Lasagna will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours to refrigerate. Make sure to give it enough time to set so it’s nice and firm when you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready!
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help heat the butter when we mix it with the Oreo crumbs for the crust. It’s the perfect start to your delicious dessert!
2. Make the Crust:
Next, take your Oreo cookies and crush them in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. Save 1/2 cup of these crumbs to sprinkle on top later. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Oreos with the melted butter until it’s all combined. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a nice crust. Easy and tasty!
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
Now let’s make the cream cheese layer! In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. Then, fold in 1 cup of cool whip gently. This adds a nice lightness. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over your Oreo crust in the baking dish. Yum!
4. Whip Up the Pudding Layer:
In a different bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk for about 2 minutes. You want it to thicken up nicely. Once it’s ready, layer this chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer you just made. This dessert is coming together wonderfully!
5. Add More Cool Whip:
Next, spread another layer of cool whip on top of the pudding layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out, making it look pretty and inviting.
6. Garnish and Refrigerate:
Finally, take the reserved crushed Oreo cookies and sprinkle them on top as a garnish. Now, it’s time for the magic! Cover your dish and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This helps all the layers set beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, your Oreo Lasagna will be ready to slice and serve. Dig in and enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends. It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Flavored Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! If you’d like to mix things up, you can use other types of cookies like chocolate chip, graham cracker, or even peanut butter cookies. Just make sure to crush them into fine crumbs, and adjust the amount of butter if needed based on your cookie choice.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
This dessert is perfect for making ahead! You can assemble the Oreo Lasagna a day or two in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the garnish of crushed Oreos until right before serving for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To maintain the freshness of the cool whip layer, try to cover the top with a layer of plastic wrap before sealing.
Can I Use Homemade Whipped Cream Instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works great! Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with a little sugar (about 2 tablespoons) until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of the cool whip. This will add a lovely homemade touch to your dessert!
