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This festive Christmas cookie lasagna brings layers of creamy goodness and sweet crunch together in a fun, no-bake dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of sandwich cookies, cream cheese filling, instant pudding, and whipped topping creates a creamy and textured treat that everyone raves about. It’s a dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to assemble.
When I first made this, I was amazed at how the layers held together so well and how the cookies softened just enough to mimic a cake texture. Now it’s a holiday tradition that everyone asks for every year.
Ingredients
- Golden sandwich cookies: the base of the crust, they add buttery sweetness and crunch. Look for fresh cookies without cracks for the best layer
- Unsalted butter melted: combines with cookie crumbs to form a moist and firm crust
- Cream cheese softened: gives the filling a rich tang that balances the sweet layers
- Powdered sugar: adds smooth sweetness to the cream cheese mixture
- Whipped topping divided: lightens the cream cheese layer and finishes the dessert with silky smoothness
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: thickens the middle layer with creamy vanilla flavor
- Cold milk: used to prepare the pudding for a luscious texture
- Red and green sprinkles: festive decoration that adds fun and texture with a holiday vibe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Crush the Cookies:
- Crush the golden sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or a sealed bag and rolling pin. Make sure to save about a quarter cup of these crumbs for the topping later.
- Form the Crust:
- Mix the crushed cookie crumbs with melted butter thoroughly. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9 by 13 inch dish to create the crust foundation.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Gently fold in one cup of whipped topping until blended but still fluffy.
- Layer the Cream Cheese Mix:
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the cookie crust layer, ensuring it covers the base completely in one smooth layer.
- Mix and Spread the Pudding:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk thoroughly until the pudding thickens. Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese filling.
- Add the Final Toppings:
- Use the remaining whipped topping to cover the pudding. Sprinkle the reserved cookie crumbs followed by red and green sprinkles over the top for that festive look. Chill the entire dish in the refrigerator for a minimum of two hours to allow it to set and flavors to meld.
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The creamy filling with cream cheese always steals the show for me. It gives a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness and makes the dessert feel more balanced. Making this with my kids is one of my favorite holiday moments because they love crushing the cookies and sprinkling the topping just right.
Storage Tips
Store this dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cookies will continue to soften as it sits, making the texture more cake-like. Avoid freezing as the whipped topping can separate when thawed.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a chocolate twist, swap out the golden sandwich cookies for chocolate ones and use chocolate pudding mix. You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer texture. Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping for an all-natural touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cookie lasagna chilled with fresh berries on the side or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with hot coffee or a glass of cold milk. Cut generous squares to wow your guests with the layers showing.
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Cultural Context
Cookie lasagna is a modern take on layered desserts inspired by traditional icebox cakes popular in American households. It’s perfect for festive occasions because it can be made ahead and easily customized with seasonal decorations and flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, other sandwich cookies or your favorite crisp cookies can be crushed to form the base, adjusting sweetness and texture to your liking.
- → How long should the dessert chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 2 hours allows the layers to set properly, ensuring a firm texture and easier slicing.
- → Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely, it can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated, making it convenient for holiday gatherings.
- → What can I substitute for the instant vanilla pudding mix?
You can use homemade vanilla pudding or another flavored instant pudding to customize the taste.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cover the dessert tightly and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining its texture.