Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is refreshing, creamy, and perfect for mint enthusiasts. The combination of chocolate and mint layers gives a delightful balance of flavors. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe that’s easy to assemble, making it perfect for a last-minute treat or pre-made celebration dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), crushed into crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Mint Cream Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup crushed mint candies, chocolate chips, or sprinkles (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Make the Cookie Crust:
- Combine the crushed cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press this mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to set.
-
Prepare the Mint Cream Layer:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add peppermint extract and green food coloring, then fold in the whipped topping.
- Spread this mint cream layer evenly over the chilled crust and refrigerate again while preparing the next layer.
-
Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- Whisk together pudding mix, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until thickened.
- Spread evenly over the mint cream layer.
-
Add the Topping:
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Garnish with crushed mint candies, chocolate chips, or sprinkles.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Servings: 12 servings
Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Twist: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding for a richer flavor.
- Mint Oreo Bliss: Use mint-flavored Oreos for an extra minty kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free alternatives like cream cheese and whipped topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store the Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal to prepare it a day ahead to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Can I freeze Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint extract?
Mint extract works well but should be used sparingly as it’s usually stronger than peppermint.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can substitute with freshly whipped cream (2 cups).
How do I avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
Can I use a different crust besides chocolate cookies?
You can try using graham cracker crumbs or even crushed pretzels for a different flavor.
How can I make this dessert firmer?
Freeze it for 30 minutes before serving to firm up the layers.
How can I make this dessert more festive?
Add green sprinkles, mini shamrock-shaped candies, or colored chocolate chips as garnish.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Adjust the powdered sugar and peppermint extract to balance sweetness to your taste.
How do I cut this dessert cleanly?
Use a sharp knife to slice and clean it between cuts for neat pieces.
Conclusion
Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a minty, creamy, and irresistible dessert that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, visually striking, and sure to be a crowd favorite. Enjoy this sweet, no-bake treat with your loved ones and celebrate the season with a burst of minty flavor!
PrintShamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a festive, no-bake treat perfect for St. Patrick’s Day! With a creamy mint filling layered over a chocolate cookie crust, topped with whipped cream and garnished with festive accents, this dessert is a mint lover’s dream. Easy to assemble and sure to impress, it’s the ultimate celebration dessert for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), crushed into crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Mint Cream Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 drops green food coloring
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- ½ cup crushed mint candies, chocolate chips, or sprinkles (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Make the Cookie Crust:
- Combine crushed cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl and mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust.
- Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to set.
-
Prepare the Mint Cream Layer:
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add peppermint extract and green food coloring. Fold in whipped topping.
- Spread the mint cream layer evenly over the chilled crust and refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
-
Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- Whisk together pudding mix, cold milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until thickened.
- Spread evenly over the mint cream layer.
-
Add the Topping:
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Garnish with crushed mint candies, chocolate chips, or sprinkles.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Notes
- The dessert works best when prepared ahead of time and allowed to chill for several hours or overnight.
- To ensure the cream cheese layer is smooth, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- For added freshness and festive flair, you can garnish with green sprinkles or mini shamrock-shaped candies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American