St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Lasagna Dessert is a fun and festive treat that layers creamy, sweet goodness with a pop of green. Imagine layers of fluffy whipped cream, cool pudding, and crushed cookies coming together to mimic a traditional lasagna, but all in dessert form. The star is the shamrock shape on top, making it perfect for celebrating the holiday with a sweet twist.
I love making this dessert because it’s easy to put together, and everyone’s eyes light up when they see the green shamrocks shining on top. It’s a playful way to bring some charm to your dessert table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the vanilla and mint flavors work so nicely together—I always add a little extra mint for that fresh kick.
My favorite way to serve this lasagna dessert is chilled, right after it’s had time to set in the fridge for a few hours. It feels like a cool, sweet surprise that guests keep coming back for. It’s also a great make-ahead option, so you can relax and enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day party instead of rushing last minute in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: These form the crunchy crust and topping; I love their chocolate flavor here. If you want a gluten-free dessert, try gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies or crushed chocolate graham crackers.
Cream Cheese & Powdered Sugar: These create the creamy layer. For a lighter option, you can use light cream cheese or even mascarpone for a richer taste.
Pistachio or Mint Pudding Mix: This is what gives the dessert its shamrock green color and flavor. If you can’t find pistachio, swap with mint pudding or even vanilla pudding with green food coloring added.
Heavy Whipping Cream & Whipped Topping: Whipping your own cream makes a fresher texture, but store-bought whipped topping is a handy shortcut that still tastes great.
Vanilla Extract & Green Food Coloring: Vanilla smooths the flavors, and a little food coloring makes the layers pop bright green. Natural matcha powder can also be used instead of food coloring.
Green Shamrock Sprinkles: They make the dessert festive. If you don’t have shamrocks, use green sugar crystals, edible glitter, or simple green sprinkles.
How Do I Make Sure the Layers Stay Neat and Creamy?
Layering is key to this dessert’s look and taste. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the crust firmly: Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact the Oreo crust evenly, so it holds together.
- Whip cream to stiff peaks: This gives the filling lightness and helps the pudding and cream cheese mixture hold shape.
- Fold ingredients gently: When mixing the whipped cream into the pudding-cheese mix, fold carefully to keep it fluffy, not runny.
- Cool the crust first: Let the crust cool after baking to stop melting the creamy layer.
- Chill well: Refrigerate at least 4 hours—overnight is best—for the layers to set and flavors to blend.
- Use a flat spatula: Spread layers evenly for a smooth, pretty look.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I use this size because it’s perfect for layering and serving.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing crust, pudding, and whipped cream layers.
- Electric hand or stand mixer – makes whipping the cream and mixing the filling much easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Spatula or offset spatula – helps spread the layers evenly and smoothly.
- Foil or plastic wrap – covers the dessert while it chills.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use mint or vanilla pudding instead of pistachio for different flavor twists.
- Add crushed peppermint candies on top for extra minty crunch.
- Mix in chopped green chocolate or add green sprinkles inside the layers for more texture and color.
- Swirl in a bit of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce between layers for added richness.
How to Make St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Lasagna Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 36 Oreo cookies, crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix (or mint-flavored pudding mix)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green food coloring (optional, for a brighter shamrock green)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed (or freshly whipped cream)
For Decoration:
- Green shamrock sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare this dessert in about 25 minutes. After assembling, allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture. This makes it a great make-ahead treat for your St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter, mixing until all crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Pudding Layer:
While the crust cools, whisk the instant pistachio (or mint) pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl. Let it set for about 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Combine Pudding & Cream Cheese:
Gently fold the thickened pudding into the cream cheese mixture until blended. Add a few drops of green food coloring if you want a brighter green shade. Set this mixture aside.
5. Whip the Cream:
Using an electric mixer, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the pudding and cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy filling.
6. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the creamy pudding mixture evenly over the cooled Oreo crust. Next, spread the whipped topping or freshly whipped cream evenly over the pudding layer.
7. Top and Decorate:
Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreo cookies over the whipped topping. Finish by adding green shamrock sprinkles to give your dessert that festive St. Patrick’s Day look.
8. Chill and Serve:
Cover your dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This resting time helps the layers set beautifully. When ready, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your festive and delicious Shamrock Lasagna Dessert!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cookie for the Crust?
Absolutely! While Oreo cookies give a great chocolate base, you can substitute with chocolate graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or any chocolate sandwich cookies you like. Just crush them finely and follow the same steps.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dessert actually tastes better after chilling overnight. Prepare all the layers, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just slice and serve when ready.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dessert chilled, and if topping looks dry, add a little extra whipped cream before serving.
Can I Use Instant Vanilla Pudding Instead of Pistachio?
Yes, you can use vanilla pudding for a milder flavor. Just add a few drops of green food coloring to keep that festive shamrock green color. Mint pudding is another tasty alternative too!