This Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a fun and festive treat inspired by the classic St. Patrick’s Day beverage. Layers of creamy, minty goodness come together to create a refreshing no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: No baking required, making it a simple dessert for any skill level.
- Minty and refreshing: Combines the classic flavors of a Shamrock Shake in a layered dessert.
- Perfect for gatherings: Great for potlucks, parties, or holiday celebrations.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Crushed cookies for the crust
- Butter, melted
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
- Milk
- Mint extract
- Green food coloring
- Crushed mint cookies or Andes mints for topping
Directions
- Prepare the crust: Combine crushed cookies with melted butter, pressing the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish to form a firm crust. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
- Make the cream cheese layer: Beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar, then fold in whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: Whisk together pudding mix and milk, adding mint extract and green food coloring until well blended. Allow the pudding to set slightly, then spread it over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the top layer: Spread a final layer of whipped topping over the pudding, smoothing it evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with crushed mint cookies or Andes mints.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Slice and serve cold.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 12
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
- Dairy-free alternative: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, milk, and whipped topping.
- Extra chocolate: Add a layer of chocolate pudding for a mint-chocolate twist.
- Peppermint variation: Swap mint extract for peppermint extract for a slightly different flavor.
- Festive sprinkles: Add green or gold sprinkles for more holiday flair.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating required; serve directly from the fridge.
FAQs
What type of cookies should I use for the crust?
Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, like Oreos, work best for the crust.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, freshly whipped cream can be used as a substitute for whipped topping.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
No, the mint flavor balances the sweetness, making it refreshing and not too heavy.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of green food coloring?
You can omit the coloring or use natural green food dye made from spinach or matcha.
Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?
Yes, sugar-free pudding mix can be used for a lighter version.
How do I ensure the layers don’t mix?
Chill each layer slightly before adding the next to help them set properly.
Can I add a chocolate drizzle on top?
Of course! A drizzle of melted chocolate adds extra richness.
What’s the best way to crush cookies for the crust?
Use a food processor or place cookies in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Can I use other flavored extracts?
Yes, feel free to experiment with vanilla, almond, or even coconut extract for different flavors.
Conclusion
Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a delightful and versatile treat that combines minty freshness with creamy layers. It’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Easy to make and customizable, this no-bake dessert will become a crowd favorite!
PrintShamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna
This Shamrock Shake Dessert Lasagna is a no-bake layered treat inspired by the classic minty milkshake. With a crunchy cookie crust, creamy mint layers, and a touch of chocolate, it’s the perfect dessert for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving a festive, minty dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed into crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Mint Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 4–5 drops green food coloring
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 3/4 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 2–3 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (for garnish)
- Green sprinkles or mint candies (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed cookies with melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to set.
2. Make the Mint Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and green food coloring. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently until the mixture is light and fluffy. Spread this layer evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes, or until thickened.
- Spread the pudding evenly over the mint layer. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
4. Add the Topping:
- Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
- Garnish with crushed cookies, green sprinkles, or mint candies.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be made 1-2 days in advance, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Variations: Swap chocolate cookies for graham crackers, or use mint-flavored sandwich cookies for an extra minty kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.