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Olive Garden Chocolate Lasagna

Helen T. Patterson
This Olive Garden Chocolate Lasagna is a rich and decadent layered dessert made with moist chocolate cake, creamy cheese frosting, and silky chocolate ganache.
Topped with chocolate shavings and mini chocolate chips, this indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or when you're craving an irresistible chocolate delight.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~450-500 kcal, Total Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Cholesterol: 60mg, Sodium: 180mg, Total Carbohydrates: 55g, Sugars: 40g, Protein: 6g, Fiber: 3g
Estimated based on one serving (assuming 12 servings per batch)
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Italian-American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • 2 Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium)
  • Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Cooling Rack
  • Serrated Knife (for slicing cake layers)
  • Offset Spatula (for frosting)
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or brewed coffee

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 16 oz cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Chocolate Ganache:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For Garnishing:

  • ½ cup chocolate shavings
  • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions
 

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  • In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently.
  • Pour in the hot water or coffee and mix until smooth. The batter will be thin.
  • Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely before slicing it into four equal layers.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
  • Add powdered sugar gradually and continue beating until light and creamy.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract and refrigerate while preparing the ganache.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

  • Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Do not boil.
  • Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for 2–3 minutes.
  • Whisk until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Chocolate Lasagna

  • Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving platter.
  • Spread a thin, even layer of cream cheese frosting over it.
  • Repeat the process until all four cake layers are stacked with frosting between them.
  • Pour the chocolate ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

  • Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and mini chocolate chips for extra texture.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set properly.
  • Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Substitutions:
  • Swap coffee for hot water if you prefer a caffeine-free option.
  • Use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for a milder taste.
Make-Ahead Option:
  • This dessert tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it chill overnight.
Storage:
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge before serving.
Keyword Olive Garden Chocolate Lasagna