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This Christmas Cookie Lasagna is a festive no-bake dessert that brings together layers of holiday cookies, creamy cheesecake filling, and whipped topping into a colorful and indulgent treat. It’s perfect for sharing at Christmas gatherings and offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
I first made this for a holiday party and it was such a hit that friends requested it every year after. The combination of cookie crunch and creamy filling feels like a little celebration in every bite.
Ingredients
- Christmas sugar cookies or shortbread cookies: these create the crust and bring festive flavor and texture use cookies that are firm enough to crush but not too dry
- Unsalted butter: melted ties crumbs together for a sturdy base and adds richness choose high quality butter for best taste
- Cream cheese: softened for a smooth creamy cheesecake layer make sure it is room temperature to avoid lumps
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the cheesecake layer evenly opt for pure white sugar for consistent sweetness
- Vanilla extract: enhances the cheesecake depth pick a pure vanilla extract for best aroma
- Heavy cream or whipped topping: provides lightness and fluff to the cheesecake layer when whipped fresh heavy cream offers better texture
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: the base of the pudding layer adds silky smoothness select instant for quicker preparation
- Cold milk: needed to prepare pudding mix use whole milk for richness or a milk alternative if dairy free
- Almond extract: optional but adds a subtle festive note use sparingly as it can be strong
- Crushed Christmas cookies: mix into pudding for extra texture and holiday flair saved crumbs from cookies work well
- Whipped topping: for the topping layer creates a light finish choose a stable whipped topping if not serving immediately
- Sprinkles: mini chocolate chips or extra crushed cookies perfect for garnishing and adding festive color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sculpt the Crust:
- Crush the Christmas sugar cookies into fine crumbs either in a food processor or by hand using a rolling pin. In a small bowl combine the cookie crumbs with melted unsalted butter. Stir until all crumbs are moistened evenly. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of an 8 by 8 inch dish to form an even layer. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Blend the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a medium bowl beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping or freshly whipped heavy cream until fully combined without deflating the fluff. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chilled crust ensuring a smooth surface for the next layer.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- In another bowl whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk and the optional almond extract until thickened to a soft but firm consistency. Carefully stir in crushed Christmas cookies to distribute evenly. Spread the pudding layer gently over the cheesecake layer in the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add the Final Topping:
- Spread whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer creating a fluffy snowy finish. Decorate generously with crushed cookies sprinkles or mini chocolate chips to make the lasagna look festive and inviting.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least four hours or preferably overnight to allow the layers to set completely. This resting time enhances the flavors meld and ensures perfect slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy the holiday delight.
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The cream cheese layer is my favorite because it balances the sweetness and adds creaminess that feels like a special treat. One year my kids helped me crush the cookies which turned into a fun little holiday tradition we now joke about every Christmas.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Christmas Cookie Lasagna covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to three days though it’s unlikely to last that long! For best texture avoid freezing as the whipped layers may separate during thawing.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a dairy-free version substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut whipped topping or another nondairy whipped cream. To change up flavors try white chocolate or cheesecake flavored pudding mix instead of vanilla. For cookies use gingerbread or peppermint flavored cookies for a different holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled straight from the fridge with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled cider for a perfect winter dessert pairing. You can also add fresh berries or pomegranate seeds on top to add brightness and color. Portion into small squares as it is quite rich but very satisfying.
Cultural Context
Christmas layered desserts are popular in many cultures for their ease and festive presentation. This recipe takes inspiration from classic no-bake cheesecakes and pudding desserts common at holiday tables in North America, adding a modern twist with the Christmas cookie crust and decoration. It’s a great way to involve kids and family in dessert making traditions while keeping it easy and celebratory.
Pro Tips
- Press the cookie crust firmly so it holds together well and doesn’t crumble when serving
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps
- Do not skip chilling time it allows the layers to fuse and makes slicing clean and neat
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use different cookies for the crust?
Yes, shortbread or sugar cookies work well. Choose cookies with a mild flavor to complement the creamy layers without overpowering.
- → How long should this dessert chill before serving?
At least 4 hours is ideal to let the layers set properly, but overnight chilling intensifies the flavors and texture.
- → What can I substitute for instant vanilla pudding?
White chocolate or cheesecake-flavored pudding mixes add richness while maintaining the creamy consistency.
- → Can almond extract be omitted?
Yes, almond extract is optional and adds a subtle festive note. Omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers, consuming within 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.