If you’re looking for a show-stopping holiday dessert that combines festive flavors with creamy goodness, then let me introduce you to the Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe. This delightful treat layers crushed Christmas sugar cookies, a luscious cheesecake layer, a dreamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it’s guaranteed to brighten any holiday gathering with its festive flair and simple preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, taste, and seasonal color. From crumbly cookies to rich cream cheese, every bite bursts with holiday cheer.
- Christmas sugar cookies (24): Use your favorite sugar or shortbread cookies for a buttery, crisp base that adds festive crunch.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): This binds the cookie crumbs to form a sturdy crust with a rich flavor.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, giving creamy, tangy richness.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the creamy layers with warm, inviting aroma.
- Heavy cream or whipped topping (1 cup): Adds lightness and fluffy texture to the cheesecake layer.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 oz): Creates the silky pudding layer that is both festive and comforting.
- Cold milk (1 ½ cups): Key to perfectly setting the pudding layer.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon, optional): Offers a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the holiday feel.
- Crushed Christmas cookies (½ cup): Stirred into the pudding for crunchy bits and bursts of seasonal flavor.
- Whipped topping (2 cups): A final luscious layer that ties the whole dessert together beautifully.
- Sprinkles, crushed cookies, or mini chocolate chips: For decorating and adding extra festive charm.
How to Make Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust
Start by crushing your Christmas sugar cookies until they resemble fine crumbs. Mix these with the melted butter until the texture feels like wet sand — this ensures your crust will hold together nicely. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch dish to create a solid base for your lasagna. Pop it into the fridge to chill while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Next, whip up a silky-smooth cheesecake filling. Beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and free of lumps. Gently fold in the whipped topping or heavy cream, making sure to keep it light and airy. Spread this luscious layer evenly over the chilled cookie crust, setting the stage for the next delicious layer.
Step 3: Make the Pudding Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and almond extract until the mixture thickens, usually around 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the crushed Christmas cookies to add extra color and texture. Then, spread this velvety pudding layer over the cheesecake with care, keeping your layers neat and festive.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
Now for the crowning touch — smooth the whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer. It adds the perfect lightness and helps hold your layers together. Sprinkle crushed cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips on top for an extra pop of holiday spirit and visual delight.
Step 5: Chill the Dessert
To achieve those beautiful, creamy festive layers, refrigerate your cookie lasagna for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This allows everything to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready, slice into 9 squares and serve chilled for the ultimate holiday indulgence.
How to Serve Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of colorful holiday sprinkles or crushed Christmas cookies presents the perfect festive touch that immediately lifts this dessert’s charm. Mini chocolate chips add a silky chocolate surprise with each bite. Fresh cranberries or mint leaves can also add a splash of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa or a fresh pot of coffee to balance the creamy sweetness beautifully. A light fruit salad with citrus notes complements the dessert’s richness and keeps your palate refreshed.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, assemble the cookie lasagna in clear glass dishes or trifle bowls to showcase those stunning, creamy layers. Individual servings in clear cups make for adorable party nibbles. You might even add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top just before serving for an extra special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This no-fuss storage keeps the layers fresh and creamy, ready for a quick festive treat whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze before adding the whipped topping to maintain texture. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, then add fresh whipped topping and decorations.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended as it can ruin the creamy layers and whipped topping texture. Simply serve straight from the fridge for that perfect creamy bite.
FAQs
Can I use different cookies for the crust?
Absolutely! While Christmas sugar cookies add a festive touch, you can substitute with shortbread or even gingerbread cookies for a spiced holiday twist. Just crush them finely to maintain a good crust texture.
Is it necessary to use instant pudding mix?
Instant pudding mix is key for quick thickening and smooth texture, but if you prefer, prepare homemade vanilla pudding with cornstarch and milk. Just ensure it’s fully set before layering.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and milk alternatives such as almond or oat milk, but the texture and flavor might differ slightly. It’s a fun experiment for those with dietary needs!
How long should I chill the lasagna?
The recipe needs at least 4 hours to set properly, but overnight chilling is ideal to let all the layers firm up and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe is perfect for making a day ahead, saving you time on the festive day itself while still impressing your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe is one of those magical holiday desserts that everyone will ask for again. Its layers of creamy cheesecake, delicate pudding, and festive cookies make it both visually stunning and incredibly tasty. Give it a try this season and watch it become an instant family favorite that you’ll treasure year after year!
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Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna: Creamy Festive Layers in 9 Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna features creamy, festive layers combining a buttery cookie crust, silky cheesecake filling, smooth vanilla pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, all adorned with colorful sprinkles and crushed cookies. A perfect make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings that offers a rich, layered treat without baking.
Ingredients
Cookie 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
Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) cold milk
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional for festive flavor)
- ½ cup crushed Christmas cookies
Top Layer and Garnish
- 2 cups whipped topping
- Crushed Christmas cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for decoration
Instructions
- Make the Cookie Crust: Crush the Christmas sugar cookies into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and silky with no lumps. Gently fold in the whipped topping or heavy cream to retain a light texture. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
- Make the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and almond extract if using. Whisk vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes until the pudding thickens. Stir in the crushed Christmas cookies to add texture. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Add the Whipped Topping: Smooth the whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer to create a fluffy, light top. Garnish with crushed Christmas cookies, colorful sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips to add festive decoration and extra crunch.
- Chill the Dessert: Refrigerate the assembled lasagna for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling step allows the layers to set perfectly and flavors to meld. When ready, slice into approximately 9 large squares and serve chilled for a creamy, festive treat.
Notes
- For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- If you prefer, use store-bought whipped topping to save time.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a festive flavor twist.
- This dessert is best made a day ahead to allow layers to properly set and flavors to meld.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute Christmas sugar cookies with shortbread or graham crackers for different flavors.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese, pudding mix, and whipped topping alternatives.
