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Oreo Lasagna brings together the best of your favorite cookies with silky layers of cream and pudding for a showstopping party dessert. When you want something crowd pleasing that requires no oven time and very little fuss this simple and decadent treat is a winner for any celebration or potluck.
I remember making this for a birthday sleepover and waking up to find everyone sneaking slices for breakfast nobody could resist those creamy layers
Ingredients
- Oreo cookies: choose classic or double stuffed for an extra creamy bite crush until you have a mix of chunky and fine for the best texture
- unsalted butter: helps the crust hold together plus it adds that rich flavor opt for high quality butter if you can
- cream cheese: softened to blend smoothly this is the base for the cheesecake layer look for full fat for richness
- granulated sugar: sweetens the cream cheese layer a fine textured sugar will blend in best
- milk: brings the creaminess to both the cheesecake and pudding layers fresh cold milk is best for setting the pudding properly
- whipped topping: holds everything light and fluffy a refrigerated tub like Cool Whip makes prep easy
- instant chocolate pudding mix: gives you that creamy chocolate middle make sure to grab instant not cook and serve for quick results
- mini chocolate chips or extra crushed Oreos: these finish the top for crunch and a little bit of chocolate drama pick good chocolate chips for a melty finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Use a food processor or place the Oreo cookies in a zip top bag and crush with a rolling pin until mostly fine crumbs remain with a few chunky bits. Mix thoroughly with melted butter until all crumbs are coated and glossy. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch dish using the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down. This helps the crust hold together once chilled.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and two tablespoons milk until absolutely smooth and creamy. Scrape the sides frequently to ensure no lumps remain. Gently fold in half the whipped topping until just blended for a light and fluffy texture. Carefully spread this over the Oreo crust. Use an offset spatula or back of a spoon to take the mixture all the way to the edges.
- Make the Chocolate Pudding:
- In a new bowl whisk the instant pudding mix with two cups of very cold milk. Whisk for two or three minutes until the pudding is thick and smooth. This helps it set up faster and keeps your layers distinct once assembled. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer smoothing until even.
- Add Topping and Chill:
- Dollop the rest of the whipped topping over the pudding and gently spread into a pillowy even layer. Sprinkle the reserved crushed Oreos or mini chocolate chips all over the top for decoration and an extra punch of chocolate. Refrigerate the whole pan for at least four hours or until the dessert is completely set and easy to slice.
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The cream cheese layer is my favorite with its tangy richness it brings all the other flavors together in every bite. My family loves to argue over who gets the corner piece with the thickest crust.
Storage Tips
Oreo lasagna keeps beautifully in the refrigerator covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap for up to five days. For longer storage freeze slices on a parchment lined tray until solid then wrap and freeze up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chocolate pudding for vanilla or even cheesecake flavored pudding for a twist. If you want a less sweet dessert try chocolate wafer cookies instead of Oreos. For the topping homemade whipped cream works as long as you stabilize it with a bit of sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cold and cut with a clean sharp knife wiping between slices for perfect layers. For a dinner party I like to top each slice with a little drizzle of warm chocolate sauce and a few extra mini chips. This dessert pairs beautifully with strong coffee or fresh berries for contrast.
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Cultural Context
Oreo lasagna is a modern American potluck classic playing on the beloved cookie cream combo. Popular in Midwest kitchens for decades these no bake desserts popped up at family reunions and summer picnics the easy prep and nostalgic taste keeps them beloved from generation to generation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use double-stuffed Oreos for the crust?
Yes, double-stuffed Oreos create an extra creamy and flavorful crust, enhancing the dessert's texture.
- → How long does the dessert need to chill?
Let it chill for at least 4 hours or until fully set for best results and easy slicing.
- → Can I make Oreo lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate the dessert a day in advance to save time before serving.
- → Are there alternatives for chocolate pudding?
Vanilla or cheesecake pudding works well for a different flavor twist while keeping the dessert creamy.
- → Is whipped topping necessary, or can I use homemade whipped cream?
Store-bought whipped topping is convenient, but homemade whipped cream adds a fresh, airy touch if preferred.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.