Mocha Lasagna is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to assemble. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a sweet coffee-infused treat, this dessert delivers. The contrast between the chocolate and coffee flavors makes it a standout, while the chilled layers offer a refreshing twist. Plus, it’s made ahead of time, so it’s perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Whipped topping
Instant chocolate pudding mix
Instant coffee or espresso powder
Cold milk
Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Directions
In a food processor, crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. Combine with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Chill in the fridge while preparing the layers.
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Fold in a portion of the whipped topping, then spread this layer evenly over the chilled crust.
In another bowl, mix the instant chocolate pudding mix and instant coffee or espresso powder with cold milk. Whisk until the mixture thickens, then pour over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth out the surface.
Sprinkle with chocolate chips or chocolate shavings, if using.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly before serving.
Servings and timing
This Mocha Lasagna recipe serves approximately 12 people. Prep time is about 25 minutes, and chill time is a minimum of 4 hours (overnight is best for clean slices).
Variations
Mocha Mint Lasagna: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the pudding mixture and garnish with crushed mint chocolates.
Nutty Mocha Lasagna: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds between the layers for a crunchy texture.
White Mocha Lasagna: Swap the chocolate pudding for white chocolate pudding and use white chocolate shavings on top.
Low-Sugar Version: Use sugar-free pudding mix, low-fat cream cheese, and reduced-sugar whipped topping.
Oreo Mocha Lasagna: Use mint or mocha-flavored Oreos for an extra twist on the crust.
Storage/Reheating
Mocha Lasagna should be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It’s best served chilled and does not require reheating. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
What kind of coffee should I use for mocha lasagna?
Instant espresso powder or strong instant coffee granules work best, as they dissolve easily into the pudding mixture and give a robust coffee flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Mocha Lasagna is an excellent make-ahead dessert. It needs to chill for several hours, so making it a day in advance is ideal.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely. If you prefer homemade whipped cream, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of the whipped topping.
Is this recipe no-bake?
Yes, Mocha Lasagna is completely no-bake, making it perfect for warm-weather days or when you want a fuss-free dessert.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How long does mocha lasagna last in the fridge?
Mocha Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when kept covered to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze mocha lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze mocha lasagna for up to a month. Be sure to cover it tightly. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What kind of chocolate topping works best?
Chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup all make great finishing touches for added flavor and presentation.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Chill the dessert thoroughly (preferably overnight) and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping between cuts, for clean slices.
Conclusion
Mocha Lasagna is a creamy, dreamy dessert that blends the richness of chocolate with the boldness of coffee for a crowd-pleasing treat. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect ending to any meal or a stand-alone indulgence when you’re craving something sweet and satisfying.
Mocha Lasagna is a decadent no-bake dessert that combines rich chocolate, bold coffee, and creamy layers into a crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for entertaining or a make-ahead indulgence, this chilled dessert is both easy and irresistible.
Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor.
Combine the crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Chill in the fridge.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Fold in half of the whipped topping, then spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix, instant coffee or espresso powder, and cold milk until the mixture thickens.
Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth the surface.
Sprinkle with chocolate chips or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving for best results.
Notes
Use strong instant espresso powder for a more pronounced coffee flavor.Chill overnight for cleaner slices when serving.Substitute homemade whipped cream for a more natural topping.To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
