Name: Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 36 golden or mint-flavored sandwich cookies, crushed; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp mint extract or peppermint extract; Green food coloring, as desired; 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix; 3 cups cold milk; 16 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), divided; 1/2 cup crushed Andes mints or mint chocolate chips (optional); Sprinkles or crushed candies, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert lasagna is cool, creamy, and bursting with minty flavor. It’s easy to assemble, doesn’t require baking, and makes a stunning presentation with its vibrant green layers. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just love minty sweets, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and kid-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Golden or mint-flavored sandwich cookies (crushed)
Unsalted butter (melted)
Cream cheese (softened)
Powdered sugar
Mint extract or peppermint extract
Green food coloring
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Milk (cold)
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Crushed Andes mints or mint chocolate chips (optional topping)
Sprinkles or crushed candies for garnish

Directions

Prepare the crust: Crush the cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter, and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill to set.
Make the mint cream layer: Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add mint extract and green food coloring to achieve your desired minty flavor and color. Fold in a portion of the whipped topping. Spread over the crust layer.
Prepare the pudding layer: Whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding evenly over the mint cream layer.
Add whipped topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Smooth it out evenly.
Top and garnish: Sprinkle with crushed Andes mints, mint chocolate chips, or festive sprinkles for added texture and flavor.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the dessert lasagna for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Slice and serve cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Oreo Base: Use classic or mint Oreo cookies for a chocolate-mint flavor.
Chocolate Pudding Layer: Replace vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a richer twist.
Extra Minty: Add crushed mint candies between layers for bursts of cool flavor.
Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and low-fat whipped topping.
Festive Look: Layer with alternating green and white layers for added visual flair.

Storage/Reheating

Store the dessert lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s not suitable for freezing, as the layers may become watery once thawed. Always serve chilled for best texture and taste. No reheating is necessary, as this is a cold dessert.

FAQs

What is dessert lasagna?

Dessert lasagna is a layered, no-bake dessert typically made with crushed cookies, creamy fillings, and pudding or whipped layers, mimicking the structure of savory lasagna.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight for the best texture.

Do I need to bake any of the layers?

No, this is a completely no-bake dessert, making it ideal for warmer months or when you want something easy.

What type of cookies work best for the crust?

Golden Oreos or mint-flavored sandwich cookies work well. Graham crackers or chocolate cookies can also be used.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of mint?

Yes, but start with a small amount and adjust to taste—peppermint can be stronger and sharper in flavor.

How can I make it more festive?

Use themed sprinkles, green-tinted whipped cream, or edible glitter to decorate the top layer.

Can I substitute homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and a bit of vanilla until soft peaks form and use it in place of store-bought whipped topping.

How do I cut clean slices?

Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut for neat slices.

What if I don’t like mint flavor?

You can substitute vanilla extract and skip the green coloring for a more neutral dessert lasagna.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the creamy texture, colorful layers, and fun presentation of this dessert.

Conclusion

Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a no-bake masterpiece that brings minty cheer to any dessert table. With its creamy layers, bright green hue, and refreshing flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether for St. Patrick’s Day or just because, this whimsical treat will keep everyone coming back for seconds.