This Oreo lasagna is a fun no-bake dessert that layers creamy cheesecake mix with chocolatey crushed Oreos. It’s sweet, cool, and perfect for sharing!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: These are the star of the show! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try other flavors like mint or peanut butter Oreos for a twist. Just be aware that they will change the overall flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the sweetness. You could swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, but remember it might alter the texture a bit.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can use almond milk or soy milk if you prefer a non-dairy choice. Just pick one that’s unsweetened to keep the balance right.
Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: You can substitute this for vanilla pudding if you want a milder flavor. Or, mix in some cocoa powder if you’re using vanilla pudding and still crave that chocolatey essence.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is convenient, but homemade whipped cream is a great substitution. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until fluffy. It’ll taste fresher!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Layering Technique?
Layering is key to making this dessert look irresistible. Start with a solid crust—press the Oreo mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish to create a stable base. The cream cheese layer follows, and it should be spread gently to keep it from mixing with the crust.
- Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth out each layer.
- Pour the pudding slowly over the cream cheese layer to avoid disturbing it.
- Finish with the whipped topping, spreading it out evenly for a beautiful presentation.
Don’t forget to chill the lasagna well before serving. This not only helps it set, but it allows the flavors to meld together nicely!
How to Make Oreo Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 package (15.5 oz) Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pudding Layer:
- 2 cups milk
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
For Garnish:
- Extra crushed Oreos
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for prep and assembly, plus at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge. If you make it the night before, that’s even better! It allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you want to bake the crust. If you prefer a no-bake version, you can skip this step. Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs, either in a food processor or by putting them into a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin. Next, mix the crushed cookies with melted butter in a bowl until the crumbs are well-coated.
2. Assemble the Layers:
Press the Oreo mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a solid crust. Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant chocolate pudding mixes. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of the thawed whipped topping and the vanilla extract until everything is combined nicely. Spread this cream cheese mixture over the Oreo crust in your baking dish.
4. Add the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
After spreading the cream cheese layer, pour the chocolate pudding over it, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Top this off by spreading the remaining whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer for that creamy finish. Finally, sprinkle some extra crushed Oreos on top for decoration!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your Oreo lasagna and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This chilling time helps it set up nicely. When you’re ready to serve, just slice it up and enjoy your delicious Oreo lasagna—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Cookies Instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! You can substitute Oreos with other sandwich cookies like Hydrox or even vanilla-flavored cookies for a different taste. Just make sure to crush them into fine crumbs just like you would with Oreos!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream for the whipped topping and almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. Look for dairy-free cream cheese as well. Just check labeling to ensure everything is suitable for your dietary needs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain the texture of the layers!
Can I Freeze Oreo Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze Oreo lasagna! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. It should keep well for about a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before serving.
