If you have a sweet tooth that craves layers of festive flavors and creamy delight, this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is your new holiday obsession. Imagine a luscious combination of buttery cookie crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a dreamy vanilla pudding layer all topped with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of holiday cheer. This no-bake dessert not only looks stunning in festive colors but also offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will make every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is as joyful to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this dazzling dessert. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and festive appeal that make this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe so irresistible.
- Christmas sugar cookies (24): The star of the crust and topping, these add that classic festive flavor and crunch.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Helps bind the cookie crumbs into a sturdy, buttery crust.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, creamy layer that balances sweetness with tang.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the creamy layer.
- Heavy cream or whipped topping (1 cup): Lightens the cream cheese for a fluffy, dreamy texture.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): Forms the luscious pudding layer with a velvety finish.
- Cold milk (1½ cups): Needed to whisk the pudding to perfection.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon, optional): Brings a subtle, festive twist that elevates the vanilla notes.
- Crushed Christmas cookies (½ cup): Mixed into the pudding for added crunch and holiday spirit.
- Whipped topping (2 cups): Used to top the dessert with cloud-like fluffiness.
- Decorations: Crushed Christmas cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for that final festive touch.
How to Make Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
Start by crushing the Christmas sugar cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor, or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with the melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish to form the crust. Pop it into the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the rest of the layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the heavy cream or whipped topping to lighten the mixture, creating a fluffy, dreamy layer. Spread this creamy goodness evenly over the chilled cookie crust and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Pudding Layer
Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens. Stir in the optional almond extract for a subtle hint of festive flair, then fold in the crushed Christmas cookies to add delightful bits of crunch. Carefully spread this layer on top of the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out for an even finish.
Step 4: Add the Final Topping and Chill
Top your lasagna with an even layer of whipped topping, spreading it out gently so it covers the pudding without disturbing the layers beneath. Then decorate with crushed Christmas cookies, festive sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for that eye-catching holiday sparkle. Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 4 hours or overnight to let those layers set perfectly.
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
While the lasagna is already stunning, a little garnish can elevate its festive vibe even more. I love scattering extra crushed Christmas cookies or a handful of colorful sprinkles on top just before serving. Mini chocolate chips add a touch of decadence and a little crunch, making every plate look as joyful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines as the grand finale, but pairing it with light sides can balance things beautifully. Fresh fruit or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream are perfect complements. You can also serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced hot cocoa or your favorite holiday coffee for a truly cozy treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try assembling the Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe in clear glass dishes or individual parfait glasses to showcase those beautiful layers. Adding festive edible glitter or gold dust can make each serving feel extra special, perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings where presentation matters as much as flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The layers will intensify in flavor as they sit, making your next slice every bit as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this dessert freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain that perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
This no-bake dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so skip reheating. Just remove from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off slightly, allowing the flavors to shine through comfortably.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cookies for the crust?
Absolutely! While Christmas sugar cookies bring a festive flair, shortbread or gingerbread cookies work beautifully too. Just make sure to use a sturdy cookie that can hold together well when crushed.
Is there a dairy-free version of the Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese, milk, and whipped topping alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free. Just be sure to check the pudding mix ingredients or make your own pudding from scratch using plant-based milk.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free sugar cookies or shortbread cookies to crush for the crust and garnish. Check all other ingredient labels to ensure they are gluten-free too.
How far in advance can I assemble the lasagna?
This dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before or even two days ahead. The flavors meld perfectly as it chills, making your job easier and your dessert tastier.
What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?
You can make your own quick pudding by using cornstarch, sugar, and vanilla extract cooked with milk, or try a homemade mousse recipe as a delicious alternative layer.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is an absolute holiday crowd-pleaser that brings together all the festive flavors we love in one luscious, layered dessert. Its ease of assembly, stunning presentation, and irresistible taste make it a must-try for your holiday celebrations. Go ahead and treat your family and friends to this sweet slice of Christmas magic—you won’t regret it!
Print
Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas Cookie Lasagna is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy cookie crust, creamy cheesecake layer, luscious vanilla pudding combined with crushed cookies, and topped with whipped topping and colorful decorations. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make treat combines classic sugar cookie flavors with a rich, creamy texture for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 24 Christmas sugar cookies (or shortbread cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or whipped topping
Vanilla Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) cold milk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional for a festive flavor)
- ½ cup crushed Christmas cookies
Topping and Garnish
- 2 cups whipped topping
- Crushed Christmas cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by hand. Mix the crumbs thoroughly with the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Form the crust: Press the buttered cookie crumbs firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish to form a compact crust layer.
- Chill the crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the filling layers.
- Make the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped cream or whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.
- Spread cheesecake layer: Evenly spread the creamy cheesecake mixture over the chilled cookie crust layer.
- Prepare pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and optional almond extract until the pudding thickens, usually about 2 minutes.
- Add crushed cookies to pudding: Stir the crushed Christmas cookies into the thickened pudding mixture to add texture and festive flavor.
- Layer the pudding: Spread the cookie-studded pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer in the dish.
- Top with whipped topping: Spread the 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer to create a smooth, creamy finish.
- Decorate the top: Garnish with additional crushed Christmas cookies, colorful sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for a festive appearance.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow all layers to properly set and meld together before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly made whipped topping or whipped cream to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
- Almond extract is optional but adds a lovely festive flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth layer.
- This dessert should be kept refrigerated until served to maintain its layers and freshness.
- Feel free to substitute Christmas sugar cookies with other holiday-themed cookies depending on preference.
