15 Best Raspberry Dark Chocolate Lasagna Recipe Tips – Easy No-Bake Dessert

Looking for the perfect raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe? You’ve found it! This step-by-step guide teaches you how to make the best homemade version of this decadent dessert. Perfect for beginners & packed with layers of amazing flavor!

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe that will satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your guests! This showstopping no-bake dessert combines the rich intensity of dark chocolate with the bright, tangy freshness of raspberries. Layer after beautiful layer, this dessert creates a symphony of textures and flavors that make it impossible to resist. Unlike traditional lasagna, this sweet version stacks layers of chocolate cookies, creamy filling, and fresh fruit to create a dessert masterpiece that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. The best part? This homemade chocolate lasagna doesn’t require any baking skills, making it accessible even for beginner dessert makers.

The concept of dessert lasagna has been gaining popularity in recent years, with food bloggers and home chefs creating countless variations. However, this raspberry dark chocolate version stands out from the crowd with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of dark chocolate and raspberries is a classic pairing that never goes out of style. The slight bitterness of high-quality dark chocolate perfectly complements the sweet-tart flavor of fresh raspberries, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.

Originally inspired by Italian tiramisu, dessert lasagnas have evolved into their own category of layered no-bake treats. This raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna takes the concept to new heights by incorporating multiple complementary layers that each bring something special to the dessert. From the crunchy chocolate cookie base to the silky chocolate pudding and the bright raspberry filling, every bite offers a new discovery of flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, bringing it to a potluck, or simply treating your family to something special, this dessert is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna

• Ready in just 30 minutes of active preparation time (plus chilling)!
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings
• No oven required – completely no-bake!
• Stunning presentation with minimal effort
• Customizable to your taste preferences
• Raspberry dark chocolate combination provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart
• Great for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or holiday celebrations
• Can be prepared up to 2 days in advance
• Creates 12-16 generous servings – ideal for sharing
• Features the classic flavor pairing that everyone loves – chocolate and raspberry

The Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion

This raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe truly shines when you need something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The beautiful layered presentation gives the impression of a complicated, time-consuming dessert, but the reality is quite different. With just 30 minutes of hands-on preparation time, you can create a dessert that looks like it came from a high-end bakery.

The versatility of this chocolate raspberry lasagna makes it suitable for virtually any occasion. Hosting a summer dinner party? This cool, refreshing dessert is perfect. Need something special for a holiday gathering? The red and brown colors make it festive for Christmas or Valentine’s Day. Planning a birthday celebration? This dessert is special enough to replace a traditional birthday cake and can even be personalized with candles or decorative toppers.

One of the greatest advantages of this raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna is its make-ahead potential. In fact, it actually improves with time in the refrigerator, as the flavors have a chance to meld and the textures to set perfectly. This makes it an ideal choice for busy hosts who want to prepare components of their menu in advance. Imagine having a show-stopping dessert already waiting in the refrigerator while you focus on other aspects of your event – that’s the convenience this recipe offers.

Ingredients for Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna

For the Cookie Crust Layer:

• 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolate cocoa powder

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted and cooled slightly

For the Raspberry Layer:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon cold water
• 1 package (3 oz) raspberry flavored gelatin

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

• 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant dark chocolate pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)

For the Topping:

• Remaining whipped topping (approximately 4 oz)
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate shavings or curls
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons dark chocolate sauce for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons crushed freeze-dried raspberries (optional, for color and flavor intensity)
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (optional, for color contrast and crunch)

Dietary Alternatives:

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust
• For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping
• For dairy-free needs, substitute plant-based butter, vegan cream cheese, and coconut whipped cream
• For a keto-friendly version, use almond flour chocolate cookies, sugar-free pudding, and monk fruit sweetener
• For a vegan option, combine the dairy-free alternatives with agar-agar instead of gelatin

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Understanding the Key Ingredients for Your Raspberry Dark Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

The Perfect Cookie Base: The foundation of any great raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe is the crust. We recommend using chocolate sandwich cookies with cream filling (like Oreos) because they provide the perfect balance of chocolate flavor and sweetness. The cream filling in these cookies also helps bind the crust together when combined with melted butter, creating a solid base that won’t crumble when sliced. The addition of dark chocolate cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor, giving the dessert a more sophisticated taste profile.

Quality Matters for Chocolate: When selecting the dark chocolate for this recipe, aim for cocoa content between 60-70% for the best balance of richness without overwhelming bitterness. Higher quality chocolate will melt more smoothly and provide a more luxurious mouthfeel in the finished dessert. If you prefer a sweeter profile, you can use semi-sweet chocolate, but the dark chocolate really helps balance the sweetness of the other components.

Fresh vs. Frozen Raspberries: While fresh raspberries are ideal for the garnish due to their appearance and texture, the cooked raspberry layer can be made with either fresh or frozen berries. Frozen berries can actually release more juice when cooked, resulting in a more intense flavor. If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them first—simply add them directly to the saucepan and follow the recipe as written, perhaps reducing the added water slightly.

How to Make Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust

1. Place chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs.
2. Add dark chocolate cocoa powder to the crumbs and mix well.
3. Pour in the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Place in refrigerator to chill while preparing the next layer.

Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
3. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until no streaks remain.
4. Carefully fold in the melted white chocolate, being careful not to overmix.
5. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
6. Return to refrigerator while preparing the next layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Layer

1. In a medium saucepan, combine fresh raspberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Once simmering, mash the berries slightly with a wooden spoon or potato masher.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until mixture thickens.
5. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the raspberry gelatin powder until completely dissolved.
7. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature (but not set).
8. Pour evenly over the cream cheese layer.
9. Return to refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow this layer to set partially.

Step 4: Create the Chocolate Pudding Layer

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the dark chocolate pudding mix, cold milk, and espresso powder (if using).
2. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the pudding begins to thicken.
3. Let stand for 5 minutes to thicken further.
4. Carefully spread the chocolate pudding over the partially set raspberry layer.
5. Return to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

1. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the set chocolate pudding layer.
2. Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings or curls.
3. Arrange fresh raspberries on top in a decorative pattern.
4. Drizzle with dark chocolate sauce just before serving.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow all layers to set completely.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Raspberry Dark Chocolate Lasagna Recipe

Following these professional tips will ensure your raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe turns out perfectly every time:

• Secret to perfect layers: Chill between adding each layer for cleaner, more defined separations.
• Soften cream cheese properly: Leave it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent lumps.
• Even crust technique: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crust firmly and evenly.
• Raspberry puree alternative: For a smoother texture, strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
• Chocolate enhancement: Adding a tiny pinch of salt to the chocolate pudding layer intensifies the dark chocolate flavor.
• Make-ahead strategy: This dessert actually tastes better when made a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld.
• Cutting clean slices: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts for picture-perfect servings.
• Cookie crust variation: Graham crackers or digestive biscuits can be substituted for the chocolate cookies if preferred.
• Whipped topping tip: If using homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping, stabilize it with 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin dissolved in 1 tablespoon of water per cup of cream.

Mastering the Art of Layer Perfection

The beauty of a raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna lies in its distinct, visually appealing layers. Achieving picture-perfect layers requires attention to detail and a few specific techniques. First and foremost, patience is key—rushing the process by skipping the chilling time between layers will lead to mixing and muddled boundaries. Each layer should be given at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to set properly before adding the next component.

When adding a new layer, start from the center and work your way outward using an offset spatula. This technique helps prevent disrupting the layer beneath. Keep the spatula clean between spreads by wiping it with a damp paper towel. For particularly delicate layers, like the whipped topping, consider using a piping bag with a wide, flat tip to gently deposit the topping across the surface before carefully spreading it.

Temperature control is another crucial factor in layer definition. All ingredients should be at the proper temperature before assembly—room temperature for cream cheese, chilled but not frozen for whipped topping, and cooled but not set for cooked components like the raspberry filling. If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider working in shorter intervals, returning the dessert to the refrigerator if you notice any softening of the layers during assembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Watery Raspberry Layer Solution: The most common cause of a watery raspberry layer is insufficient cooking time or thickening agent. Make sure to cook the cornstarch mixture until it’s noticeably thickened, almost to a pudding-like consistency. Remember that it will thicken further as it cools. If you’ve already assembled the dessert and notice the layer is too loose, all is not lost—simply refrigerate for longer to allow more setting time.

Problem: Crumbly Crust Solution: If your cookie crust isn’t holding together, you likely need more binding agent. Add an additional tablespoon of melted butter to the crumbs and mix well. The mixture should resemble wet sand and hold together when pressed between your fingers. Another common issue is insufficient compression—use firm pressure when pressing the crumbs into the pan to create a solid foundation.

Problem: Lumpy Cream Cheese Layer Solution: This almost always results from cream cheese that’s too cold. For a perfectly smooth texture, ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature—this means leaving it out for at least 30-45 minutes before mixing. If you’re in a hurry, cut the cream cheese into small cubes to speed up the softening process. If you still notice lumps after mixing, warm the mixture slightly over a double boiler while whisking constantly until smooth.

Best Ways to Serve Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna

This raspberry dark chocolate lasagna is a stunning centerpiece dessert that deserves special presentation. For the ultimate experience, serve chilled slices on dessert plates with these perfect accompaniments:

• Add a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side for a delightful temperature contrast
• Pair with a shot of espresso or rich coffee to balance the sweetness
• Serve with additional fresh raspberries and mint leaves for garnish
• For an adult version, accompany with a glass of raspberry liqueur or ruby port
• Drizzle extra dark chocolate sauce on the plate for an elegant restaurant-style presentation
• For a complete dessert table, pair with our [Classic Tiramisu] or [Triple Chocolate Mousse Cups]

The dark chocolate and raspberry combination shines brightest when served at cool room temperature—remove from refrigerator about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Creating a Dessert Experience

Elevate your raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna from a simple dessert to a memorable culinary experience by considering the complete presentation. Serving this dessert is an opportunity to engage all the senses and create a moment of indulgence for your guests.

Start with the visual appeal—consider serving on white or black plates to create striking contrast with the red and brown layers. A clear glass trifle dish or individual parfait glasses can also showcase the beautiful layers when serving. For special occasions, add edible gold leaf or a light dusting of gold-tinted cocoa powder for a touch of luxury.

The temperature of the dessert significantly impacts the flavor experience. While the raspberry chocolate dessert should be stored in the refrigerator until shortly before serving, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes softens the textures slightly and allows the dark chocolate flavors to bloom. This brief warming period enhances the aromatic qualities of the dessert, making the experience even more enticing.

Consider the complete sensory experience when serving. The contrast of temperatures between a cool dessert and a hot beverage creates a pleasing sensory play. The slight bitterness of coffee or espresso provides the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the dessert, cleansing the palate between bites and allowing you to fully appreciate the complex flavors of the raspberry dark chocolate combination.

Seasonal Serving Suggestions

Spring & Summer Serving Ideas: During warmer months, emphasize the fresh, fruity aspects of this dessert. Create a seasonal fruit accompaniment by macerating mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and additional raspberries) with a touch of sugar and lemon zest. The bright acidity of the fresh fruit complements the richness of the chocolate lasagna perfectly. Consider serving smaller portions with a fruit salad on the side for a lighter ending to a summer meal.

Fall & Winter Serving Ideas: In cooler seasons, lean into the comforting aspects of this dessert. Warm the dark chocolate sauce slightly before drizzling over each serving. Add warming spices like cinnamon or cardamom to whipped cream for topping. During holiday seasons, garnish with sugared cranberries alongside the raspberries for a festive appearance, or add a touch of peppermint extract to the whipped topping for a holiday twist.

Nutritional Information for Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna

Per serving (based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 26g
• Protein: 4g

This raspberry chocolate dessert can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet. For a lighter version, see the dietary alternatives in the ingredients section.

Storage & Leftovers

Your raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna will stay fresh when properly stored. Here’s how to keep it at its best:

• Refrigerator storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer instructions: This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in freezer bags.
• Thawing guidelines: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator for best texture results.
• Best consumption window: This dessert is at its peak flavor and texture within the first 3 days.
• Not suitable for: Leaving at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to dairy content.

The raspberry layer may release some liquid after a few days of storage, but this doesn’t affect the flavor—just blot gently with a paper towel before serving leftovers.

FAQs for Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna

Can I make Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! This raspberry chocolate dessert is actually best when made 1-2 days in advance. The extra time allows the flavors to meld together and the layers to set perfectly. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh for this chocolate lasagna?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well for the cooked raspberry layer. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using. However, for the garnish on top, fresh raspberries provide the best appearance and texture.

How do I prevent my chocolate lasagna layers from mixing together?

The key is chilling time between layers. Make sure each layer is properly set in the refrigerator (about 30 minutes) before adding the next. Also, spread each new layer gently using an offset spatula, starting from the center and working outward.

What can I substitute for the raspberry gelatin in this recipe?

If you prefer to avoid gelatin products, you can use 2 tablespoons of agar-agar powder dissolved in hot raspberry puree as a vegetarian alternative. You could also increase the cornstarch to 1 tablespoon for more thickening power, though the texture will be slightly different.

How long does Raspberry Delight Dark Chocolate Lasagna last in the refrigerator?

When properly stored in an airtight container, this raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna will maintain its best quality for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The texture of the raspberry layer may change slightly after day 3, becoming a bit more watery, but the flavor will still be excellent.

Can this dessert be made in individual servings instead of one large dish?

Yes! This chocolate raspberry dessert works beautifully as individual portions. Use clear glass trifle cups or mason jars to showcase the gorgeous layers. Follow the same layering process, just scaled down for your containers. Individual servings are perfect for dinner parties as they eliminate the need for cutting and serving at the table.

Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?

Absolutely. To reduce the sweetness of this raspberry dark chocolate lasagna, use bittersweet chocolate (70-85% cacao) in the pudding layer, reduce the sugar in the raspberry filling by half, and use unsweetened whipped cream instead of pre-sweetened whipped topping. You can also choose chocolate cookies with less sugar for the base layer.

Can I add other fruits to this dessert besides raspberries?

While raspberries pair perfectly with dark chocolate, you can certainly experiment with other fruits. Strawberries make an excellent substitute and work well with the same preparation method. You could also try a combination of mixed berries or even layer in sliced bananas between the chocolate and raspberry layers for a different flavor profile.

What’s the best way to transport this dessert to a party?

For transporting your raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna, keep it in the dish you assembled it in and refrigerate until the last possible moment. Place the dish in a cooler with ice packs for the journey. If possible, add the final toppings of fresh raspberries and chocolate drizzle at your destination for the freshest presentation. Alternatively, consider making this in a disposable aluminum pan with a secure lid for easy transport.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy this raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna, try these other decadent desserts:

• Strawberry White Chocolate Tiramisu – A fruity twist on the Italian classic!
• Triple Layer Chocolate Mousse Cake – For the ultimate chocolate lover’s experience
• No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Parfaits – Individual desserts perfect for entertaining
• Dark Chocolate Raspberry Brownies – When you want the same flavors in a classic baked treat
• Chocolate Cookie Icebox Cake – Another easy no-bake dessert for summer gatherings

Explore More Decadent Desserts

For Chocolate Lovers: If the dark chocolate component of this dessert is what appeals to you most, you’ll want to explore our collection of chocolate masterpieces. Our Triple Chocolate Lava Cakes feature a molten center that flows like liquid velvet when you break into them with your spoon. For a more sophisticated take on chocolate, try our Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Tart which balances the intensity of high-quality dark chocolate with the bright spark of flaky sea salt for an unforgettable flavor combination.

For Berry Enthusiasts: If the raspberry element is your favorite part of this dessert, you’ll delight in our Mixed Berry Pavlova with its cloud-like meringue base topped with freshly whipped cream and a medley of seasonal berries. Our Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars offer another wonderful way to enjoy the bright, tangy flavor of raspberries in a convenient, portable format perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.

For No-Bake Dessert Fans: If you appreciate the convenience of no-bake desserts, don’t miss our No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars which combine the beloved flavor pairing of chocolate and peanut butter in a quick, easy treat. For something a bit more elegant, our Mango Coconut Cream Tart features a press-in cookie crust similar to the one in this raspberry chocolate lasagna but takes your taste buds on a tropical vacation with its exotic flavor profile.

The Science Behind Perfect Dessert Pairings

The pairing of dark chocolate and raspberries in this dessert is no accident. Food scientists have identified specific compounds in both ingredients that create a harmonious flavor experience when combined. Dark chocolate contains over 600 aromatic compounds that create its complex flavor profile. Many of these compounds, particularly the fruity and floral notes, complement and enhance similar compounds found in raspberries.

Additionally, the slight bitterness of dark chocolate and the tartness of raspberries create a balanced contrast that prevents the dessert from becoming overwhelmingly sweet. This balance stimulates multiple taste receptors simultaneously, creating a more complex and satisfying flavor experience. The textural contrast between smooth, creamy chocolate layers and the slightly seedy texture of the raspberry component adds another dimension to the sensory experience.

Understanding these principles of flavor pairing can help you create your own variations on this dessert, substituting ingredients that share complementary flavor compounds or create pleasing contrasts in taste and texture.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You now know how to make the best raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe at home. This impressive dessert combines the rich intensity of dark chocolate with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh raspberries to create a showstopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The beautiful layers not only taste amazing but create a stunning visual effect that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, this no-bake dessert lasagna delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort.

This raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna represents the perfect balance of convenience and luxury in home dessert-making. While it looks complex enough to have come from a professional pastry kitchen, it requires no special equipment or techniques—just a bit of patience as you build each delicious layer. The combination of dark chocolate and raspberry is timeless, sophisticated, and universally appealing, making this dessert appropriate for virtually any occasion.

The versatility of this recipe also makes it a valuable addition to your dessert repertoire. Once you’ve mastered the basic technique of layering and chilling, you can experiment with endless variations, substituting different flavors of cookies, puddings, and fruit layers to create your own signature dessert. The fundamental template—crunchy base, creamy middle layers, and fresh fruit component—can be adapted to suit any season or flavor preference.

Remember that the quality of your ingredients will shine through in this dessert. Since there’s no baking involved to transform the flavors, each component will taste exactly as it goes in. Splurge on high-quality dark chocolate, ripe, fragrant raspberries, and real vanilla extract for the most luxurious result. Your attention to detail will be rewarded with an exceptional dessert experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

We’d love to hear how your raspberry chocolate lasagna turned out! Did you try any variations? Share your experience in the comments below and don’t forget to tag us in your creation photos on social media. Happy dessert making!

A Final Note on Making This Recipe Your Own

While we’ve provided a comprehensive guide to creating the perfect raspberry delight dark chocolate lasagna, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this versatile dessert. The joy of cooking and baking comes from personal expression and adaptation. Perhaps you’ll add a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache between the cookie crust and cream cheese layer for even more chocolate intensity. Or maybe you’ll incorporate a hint of almond extract into the raspberry filling for a subtle flavor enhancement.

Whatever variations you try, the fundamental principles remain the same: create distinct layers, allow proper chilling time between additions, and balance flavors and textures for the most satisfying result. With these guidelines in mind, your raspberry dark chocolate lasagna will be a success every time.

[Note: This article on raspberry dark chocolate lasagna recipe was last updated on May 9, 2025, to ensure all recipe instructions and tips reflect our current best practices.]

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