St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Lasagna Dessert is a fun and festive treat that layers creamy whipped topping, green-tinted pudding, and crushed cookies all stacked together to look like a sweet lasagna. It’s colorful, light, and perfect for celebrating with a sea of shamrocks and a hint of mint or lime flavor to keep things bright and cheerful.
I love pulling this dessert together because it’s so easy to make, and it doesn’t need baking — just layers and chill! It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special with its green-hued layers and crunchy cookie bits. I usually use sandwich cookies crushed finely for a bit of chocolatey crunch hidden inside, which adds a nice surprise in every bite.
This is my go-to dessert for St. Patrick’s Day gatherings. I like to serve it in a big glass dish so everyone can see those pretty layers, and sometimes I sprinkle extra shamrock sprinkles or little green candies on top. It’s a nice way to end a festive meal, bringing smiles and a sweet, playful touch to the holiday table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: These add a crunchy, chocolatey base and texture. If you’re avoiding gluten, try gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. For less sweetness, crushed graham crackers can work too.
Pudding Mix: Pistachio or lime flavors give the dessert its festive green color and fresh taste. If you can’t find these, vanilla pudding with green food coloring and a bit of mint extract makes a nice alternative.
Whipped Topping: This keeps the dessert light and fluffy. Use your favorite whipped topping brand or make homemade whipped cream for a creamier texture.
Mint Extract & Food Coloring: Mint extract is optional but adds a refreshing note. Green food coloring boosts the green layers’ vibrancy—adjust to your liking for greener or softer shades.
Sprinkles & Shamrock Candies: These are purely decorative but add the festive St. Patrick’s charm and a little crunch. You can swap with any green-themed candies or skip for a simpler look.
How Do I Layer This Dessert So It Holds Together Well?
The layering is what gives this dessert the fun “lasagna” look. Here are some tips:
- Start with a firm base of crushed cookies pressed lightly to stay in place.
- Spread pudding mixture evenly and not too thick to avoid slipping.
- Add another thin cookie layer for texture contrast and to help separate pudding layers.
- Finish with whipped topping spread gently to keep the layers distinct.
- Chill for at least 4 hours so layers set and the cookies soften slightly, binding everything.
Patience with chilling helps the dessert slice cleanly and makes each layer stand out. Using a sharp knife warmed in warm water can help cut perfect squares without squishing the layers.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I like this size because it creates good layers and is easy to serve from.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking pudding and folding whipped topping, keeps ingredients separate and organized.
- Whisk – makes mixing the pudding smooth and lump-free, easy to use with short strokes.
- Spatula – helpful for spreading pudding and whipped topping evenly without disturbing layers.
- Measuring spoons and cups – ensures accurate amounts, especially for extract and food coloring.
- Plastic wrap – covers the dessert as it chills, keeps it fresh and prevents odors from other fridge items.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use Different Flavors: Swap pistachio with lemon or orange pudding to add fresh citrus tones, perfect for more summery vibes.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix mini chocolate chips into pudding layers for extra chocolate bites that melt in your mouth.
- Top with Whipped Cream & Fruit: Finish with a swirl of whipped topping and fresh berries or sliced kiwi for a colorful, fruity twist.
- Make It Minty: Add more mint extract or crushed peppermint candies into the pudding for a stronger mint flavor that’s extra festive.
St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Lasagna Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Layers:
- 1 package (about 14 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), finely crushed
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio or lime flavored pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), divided
- ½ teaspoon peppermint or mint extract (optional for extra minty flavor)
- Green food coloring (optional, for extra vibrant green)
For Decoration:
- Green and gold sprinkles or colored sugar
- Green shamrock-shaped candies or sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After assembling the layers, it needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight so everything sets nicely and the flavors come together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pudding Layer:
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant pistachio or lime pudding mix with the cold milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Then, gently fold in half of the whipped topping to make it light and fluffy. For a minty twist, add peppermint or mint extract and a few drops of green food coloring if you want a brighter green.
2. Layer the Cookies and Pudding:
In a 9×9-inch dish, spread a layer of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies evenly across the bottom. Next, spread half of the pudding mixture over the cookie layer. Sprinkle another thin layer of crushed cookies on top.
3. Add the Final Layers and Chill:
Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the cookie crumbs. Then gently spread the remaining whipped topping evenly on top. Decorate with crushed chocolate cookies, green and gold sprinkles, and shamrock candies.
4. Refrigerate and Serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, cut into squares and enjoy the creamy, crunchy, festive goodness of this St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Lasagna Dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Whipped Topping?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator before folding it into the pudding for the best texture.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare it the day before your celebration and let it chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set perfectly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookie layers might soften over time, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Substitute the Pudding Flavor?
Yes, you can swap pistachio or lime pudding with vanilla pudding plus a few drops of green food coloring and mint extract for a similar festive look and flavor.