This Raspberry Chocolate Lasagna layers creamy chocolate and tart raspberry flavors in a fun dessert. It’s no-bake, which means less fuss and more yum!
Who can resist a dessert that looks as good as it tastes? I love serving this at parties—you’ll see smiles all around when they take a bite. It’s a winner every time! 🍫💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: These serve as the perfect base for the crust. If you’re avoiding gluten, try gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. You could also use graham crackers for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness and creaminess to the layers. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use light cream cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, vegan cream cheese works great!
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is commonly used for convenience. For homemade whipped topping, just whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form. This allows more control over sweetness!
Fresh Raspberries: Fresh is best for flavors, but if out of season, frozen raspberries can work. Just thaw and drain excess liquid for a similar taste.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: If you want a darker flavor, dark chocolate chips are a good choice. For a sweeter result, milk chocolate chips can also be used based on your preference.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Raspberry Layer?
The raspberry layer adds a burst of flavor to the dessert. Here’s a tip to ensure this layer is perfect:
- Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes clear—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Patience is key here!
- Once thickened, gently fold in the raspberries. This keeps them intact and adds a lovely texture.
Let it cool slightly before adding to prevent it from melting the cream layer below!
What’s the Best Way to Set Your Layers?
Chilling is essential for this dessert to keep the layers firm and intact. Follow these tips:
- Use a glass or metal pan for even cooling.
- Cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer odors or excess moisture.
- A longer chilling time (like overnight) makes the layers set better and improves the flavor as they meld together.
Enjoy the wait—this dessert is worth it!
Raspberry Chocolate Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), finely crushed
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
For the Raspberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 cup water
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 6 tbsp heavy cream
Garnish:
- Extra fresh raspberries
- Chocolate shavings or curls
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious raspberry chocolate lasagna requires about 30 minutes of preparation time and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For the best results, it’s great to let it sit overnight, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by mixing the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl until it’s well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the other layers. This chilling helps the crust set up perfectly!
2. Make the Chocolate Layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese along with the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth. This part is so rich and chocolatey! Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until everything is nicely blended. Spread this delicious chocolate mixture evenly over your chilled crust.
3. Prepare the Cream Layer:
In another bowl, blend the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then fold in the remaining whipped topping gently. This adds a fluffy layer that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate! Spread this cream layer carefully over the chocolate layer.
4. Cook the Raspberry Layer:
In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook this mixture on medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and becomes clear—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and fold in the fresh raspberries. Let it cool slightly, and then gently spoon this topping over the cream layer for a fruity burst!
5. Make the Chocolate Topping:
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream together in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until it melts to a smooth and glossy ganache. Allow it to cool slightly but ensure it doesn’t set completely!
6. Assemble Topping:
Gently spread the melted chocolate ganache evenly over the raspberry layer, creating a rich final layer for your lasagna.
7. Chill:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This waiting period allows all the layers to set and taste amazing together.
8. Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish your delightful dessert with extra fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings on top. Cut into squares and enjoy the layers of flavor in this luscious Raspberry Chocolate Lasagna!
Can I Use Other Types of Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! While chocolate sandwich cookies provide a rich flavor, you can also use graham crackers or digestive biscuits for a lighter taste. Just crush them finely and mix with melted butter as directed.
How Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies or any gluten-free cookies you like for the crust. Ensure that the other ingredients, especially the whipped topping and cream cheese, are labeled gluten-free as well.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna in Advance?
Yes, you can make this dessert a day or two in advance. Just ensure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap in the fridge to keep it fresh. The flavors will develop and deepen, making it even more delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, it’s best to keep the layers intact rather than cutting them until you’re ready to serve.
