Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna

Every year, as the holiday season rolls around, I find myself getting giddy at the thought of baking and indulging in all things festive. One of my absolute favorite treats to whip up is Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna. It brings back such sweet memories of my childhood, when my mom would gather us all in the kitchen, mixing and layering ingredients with laughter echoing around us. The smell of sugar cookies baking would fill the air, and we’d eagerly await that first slice of dessert, our faces lighting up with delight.

This dessert is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a celebration of the season. Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna is perfect for holiday gatherings, family parties, or simply when you want something sweet to share (or keep all to yourself!). With its layers of cookie crust, creamy filling, and festive toppings, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. So, let’s dive into this delightful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love "Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna"

• Quick and easy to make with no baking required!
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing joy to all ages.
• Minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
• Family-friendly; everyone can help with the layering!
• Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for convenience.
• Endless customization options with flavors and toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 24 Christmas sugar cookies (or shortbread cookies for a buttery flavor)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (I love using high-quality butter for the best taste)
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (you can also use powdered sugar for a smoother texture)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract makes a world of difference)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or whipped topping (whipped topping makes it lighter and fluffier)
• 1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) instant vanilla pudding mix (instant is key for a quick setup)
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) cold milk (whole milk gives a creamier consistency)
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional for a delightful festive flavor)
• ½ cup crushed Christmas cookies (these will add a fun crunch to the topping)
• 2 cups whipped topping (for that fluffy finish)
• Crushed Christmas cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for garnish (get creative, it’s the holidays!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Even though we won’t be baking for long, it’s always good to start with a warm oven!

Make the Cookie Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, crush your 24 Christmas sugar cookies until they’re fine crumbs. I like to put them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin — it’s a bit of a stress reliever!
2. Add the 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the crumbs and mix until it resembles wet sand.
3. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch dish. Make sure it’s even; this will be the solid base for our layers!

Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a clean bowl, beat together the softened 8 oz cream cheese, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. I love using a hand mixer for this part; it makes it super easy!
2. Once it’s nice and combined, gently fold in 1 cup of heavy cream or whipped topping. This is where it gets fluffy, so be careful not to deflate it too much!
3. Spread this luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie crust layer. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy; that just means it’s homemade!

Make the Pudding Layer

1. In another bowl, whisk together the package of instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 ½ cups of cold milk. Add in the optional ½ teaspoon of almond extract for an extra festive kick!
2. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens up nicely. It should take just a couple of minutes, so don’t wander off too far!
3. Once it’s thickened, spread this pudding layer over the cream cheese layer. Look at those layers forming — it’s so pretty!

Assemble the Dessert

1. Now, it’s time for the fun part! Top the pudding layer with 2 cups of whipped topping. You can spread it out smoothly or get creative with swirls — it’s all about what makes you happy!
2. Sprinkle the ½ cup of crushed Christmas cookies (or any festive toppings you fancy) all over the top. This adds a delightful crunch and festive touch to your dessert!

Chill and Serve

1. Now that it’s all assembled, cover your dish with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This is crucial for the flavors to meld and for everything to set up perfectly!
2. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve! Watch your family and friends’ faces light up as they dive into this festive treat.

Variations

• Swap sugar cookies for gingerbread cookies for a spiced twist.
• Use flavored pudding mix, like chocolate or caramel, for a unique flavor.
• Try adding a layer of fresh berries or festive fruit for a refreshing touch.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cookies and pudding mix.
• For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Slice the Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing treat. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or a festive holiday drink. Feel free to garnish each piece with extra crushed cookies, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips for that extra festive flair!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual pieces for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Helpful Notes

• If you're short on time, store-bought whipped topping works perfectly.
• For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
• Feel free to mix in some mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer for added texture.
• Experiment with different extracts like peppermint for a holiday twist!
• Leftover crushed cookies can be used as a fun topping for ice cream or other desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna! Just make sure to cut it into individual squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

How can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese if you want a lighter or dairy-free option. Just make sure the yogurt is plain and thick for the best consistency.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you're looking for a substitute for heavy cream, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version or even a mixture of whole milk and melted butter. For a lighter option, you can also use half-and-half or evaporated milk, but keep in mind it may not be as rich.

Final Thoughts

As you gather around the table this holiday season, I hope you give Easy Christmas Cookie Lasagna a try. It's not just a dessert; it’s a way to create sweet memories with your loved ones, just like I did as a child. The laughter, the smiles, and the joy of sharing a delicious treat make it all worthwhile. So, roll up your sleeves, get the kids involved, and let the festive spirit fill your kitchen. I promise, each bite will bring warmth and cheer to your celebrations. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

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