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If you have a sweet tooth craving that combines luscious creaminess with a bit of chocolate decadence and the iconic rich flavor of red velvet, then you absolutely need to try this Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe. It’s a dazzlingly layered treat that brings together an Oreo cookie crust, silky cheesecake, dreamy red velvet pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, all finished off with a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips. Each bite is a heavenly trip through different textures and flavors, making it an unforgettable dessert perfect for celebrations or whenever you want to spoil yourself and your loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe uses ingredients that are simple yet carefully chosen to bring out the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each one plays its part in creating layers that are creamy, rich, smooth, and visually stunning.
- Oreo cookies (14.3 ounces): The base of your dessert, crushed into a crumbly, chocolatey crust that sets the stage for all the creamy layers.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Helps bind the Oreo crust together and adds richness.
- Low-fat cream cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): Provides a tangy and velvety cheesecake layer, lightening the dessert without sacrificing flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds the perfect sweetness to the cheesecake layer, balancing out tangy cream cheese.
- Lite Cool Whip (8 ounces, 1 tub plus another 8 ounces): Brings luscious fluffiness and lightness to the cheesecake and top layers.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): A subtle zing that enhances the cream cheese flavor in the cheesecake layer.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (5.9 ounces): Prepares the rich, velvety red velvet layer with a smooth texture and deep chocolate taste.
- Milk (3 cups): Mixed with pudding to create that thick, creamy red velvet layer.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Adds extra creaminess specifically to the red velvet pudding layer, making it decadently rich.
- Red food coloring (optional): Infuses that signature vibrant red hue to visually transform this layer into classic red velvet style.
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): A fun, crunchy garnish to add tiny bursts of chocolate hit in every bite.
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Then, crush the Oreo cookies in a high-powered blender or food processor until they are finely ground. Mix the melted unsalted butter into the Oreo crumbs, stirring until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form an even crust base and bake it for 5 to 8 minutes until it’s just slightly toasted. This step creates a sturdy, chocolatey base with just the right amount of crunch.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
While the crust is cooling, blend the first cheesecake layer. Using a hand mixer, whip together the low-fat cream cheese, granulated sugar, one tub of Lite Cool Whip, and lemon juice until everything is smooth and fluffy. This mixture sets the creamy, tangy foundation with a light texture that will complement the richer red velvet later.
Step 3: Create the Red Velvet Pudding Layer
In another bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with milk and beat for two minutes until the pudding thickens beautifully. Then, gently fold in the remaining cream cheese and a few drops of red food coloring—you can adjust the amount to get your preferred shade of that classic red velvet color. This layer is silky, rich, and perfectly chocolatey with a festive pop of red.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Now it’s time to build your lasagna! Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the cooled Oreo crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Next, carefully spoon the red velvet pudding layer on top, again smoothing it out to an even finish. Finally, spread the remaining Lite Cool Whip over the top as a delightful, airy cap.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches and Chill
Sprinkle a generous cup of mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping to add texture and bursts of chocolate in each bite. Place the dessert in the fridge or freezer for at least one hour so it can set properly. You can choose to serve it chilled or slightly frozen—both ways are delicious and make for a refreshing dessert.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add extra flavor depth, top your Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a bright, fruity contrast. A light dusting of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of white chocolate can make it look like it belongs on a dessert menu at a fancy restaurant.
Side Dishes
Serve this indulgent dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the richness. A cup of hot coffee or robust black tea pairs beautifully, balancing the sweet and creamy sensations with bold, warm flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making individual servings in clear parfait glasses to showcase the gorgeous layers. Alternatively, cut into neat bars and serve on decorative plates with a sprig of mint for a party-ready dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even have a chance to meld further, making each bite just a bit more harmonious. Just be sure to cover it well to avoid it drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dessert later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
Since this dessert is best enjoyed cold or slightly frozen, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to fridge temperature and enjoy the smooth, creamy layers as they were intended to be savored.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of low-fat?
Absolutely! Regular cream cheese will make the dessert even richer and creamier, so if you’re looking to indulge, go for it. Just keep in mind it adds more fat and calories compared to the low-fat version.
Is there a substitute for the Oreo crust?
You can use any chocolate cookie you like as a crust substitute, but Oreos are the best because of their sweetness and texture. Graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies can work in a pinch, but they’ll give a different flavor profile.
Do I have to use red food coloring?
Red food coloring is optional but highly recommended to achieve that iconic red velvet look. If you prefer a natural approach, you could try beet juice, but it may alter the taste and texture slightly.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust and ensure the pudding mix is gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to be safe.
How long does the dessert need to chill before serving?
At least one hour in the fridge or freezer allows the layers to set properly, but chilling longer, even overnight, improves the texture and makes slicing easier.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that wows with layers of rich flavor, creamy textures, and just the right amount of chocolatey goodness, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Dessert Lasagna Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy to make, fun to assemble, and looks stunning on any dessert table. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved favorite you’ll make again and again, sharing those joyous moments with friends and family. So go ahead, dive in and savor each luscious, heavenly layer!
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