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This festive Christmas Cookie Lasagna is the perfect no bake holiday dessert, combining layers of vanilla Oreo crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and pudding for an irresistible seasonal treat. With just 25 minutes of prep time plus chilling, this easy layered dessert is sure to impress at any Christmas gathering and adds eye catching color to your dessert table. Enjoy a sweet combination of creamy, crunchy, and colorful textures in every decadent bite.
I created this Christmas Cookie Lasagna recipe when I needed a show stopping holiday dessert that did not require oven space for a potluck. The combination of vanilla Oreos, fluffy whipped topping, creamy cheesecake filling, and festive sprinkles made it an instant family favorite. Every time I bring it to a Christmas party, the layers disappear quickly and people always request the recipe for their own gatherings.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Vanilla Oreo cookies (48 cookies, divided): Provide a sweet, festive base that is easy to crush and holds the dessert together; for best results, use a fresh pack and consider golden Oreos as a substitute for even lighter flavor
- Butter, melted (6 tablespoons): Helps bind the cookie crust for the perfect consistency and adds a rich taste; unsalted butter is ideal but margarine works in a pinch
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): Essential for a smooth, creamy layer; always use cream cheese at true room temperature to prevent lumps
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer without any grit and creates a luscious texture; sift before using for best results
- Holiday sprinkles (2 tablespoons, divided): Brings festive red and green color throughout the dessert; swap for themed sprinkles for other occasions
- Whipped topping (two 8 ounce tubs): Creates the light, fluffy layers that make this Christmas lasagna so appealing; use any brand of stabilized whipped topping
- Cheesecake instant pudding mix (3.4 ounce package): Adds structure and tangy flavor to the pudding layer; can substitute vanilla pudding mix if desired
- Cold milk (2 cups): Cold temperature is crucial for the pudding to properly set; whole or two percent milk works best for creamy results
How to Make Christmas Cookie Lasagna
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Line a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and neater slices. This step is optional but recommended for clean layered presentation and hassle free serving.
- Create the Cookie Crust:
- Pulse 36 vanilla Oreo cookies in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and stir in the melted butter and 1/2 tablespoon of holiday sprinkles until the mixture resembles wet sand. Evenly distribute the mixture in the bottom of your prepared dish.
- Form the Base Layer:
- Press the cookie mixture firmly into an even layer across the base of your baking dish, using the flat bottom of a measuring cup for best results. Creating a compact layer helps support the creamy fillings above and prevents a crumbly crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer for 2 to 3 minutes until light and smooth. Gently fold in one tub of whipped topping and 1/2 tablespoon of sprinkles to create a fluffy mixture.
- Add the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie crust with an offset spatula, reaching all corners and edges of the dish to ensure even distribution. This layer provides a cheesecake flavor and creamy contrast to the crunchy base.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer:
- Whisk together the cheesecake instant pudding mix and cold milk in a medium bowl for about 2 minutes. Let it sit for 3 minutes to thicken, then stir in another 1/2 tablespoon of sprinkles for added color.
- Apply the Pudding Layer:
- Carefully spread the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer, using a light touch to avoid blending the two. This step gives your lasagna its signature creamy middle and festive look.
- Add the Final Layers:
- Top the dessert with the remaining tub of whipped topping, spreading it evenly. Crush the reserved 12 Oreos, sprinkle them on top, and finish by adding the last 1/2 tablespoon of sprinkles for holiday flair.
- Chill and Set:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the dessert to set and layers to meld. For a firmer, ice cream style treat, freeze until solid and thaw slightly before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the dessert into squares with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for extra clean slices. Wipe the knife between each cut and serve immediately for pretty layered presentation.
The very first time I served this Christmas Cookie Lasagna at our family's Christmas Eve dinner, it became an immediate holiday hit. Everyone loved the playful contrast of crunchy cookies and fluffy filling, and my aunt (who almost never asks for seconds) claimed it was one of the best desserts she had tried. Now it's a tradition at our gatherings, always disappearing faster than anything else on the table.
Smart Swaps and Variations
This Christmas Cookie Lasagna can be adapted for many tastes and occasions. Substitute regular or chocolate Oreos and chocolate pudding for a decadent twist, or make a mint chocolate version with peppermint extract and mint cookies for a cool holiday flair. For those with dietary restrictions, opt for dairy free whipped topping, vegan cream cheese, and plant based pudding for a delicious alternative everyone can enjoy, or simply swap out the sprinkles to match the occasion year round.
How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cookie Lasagna
Store your Christmas Cookie Lasagna tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best flavor and texture. For longer storage, freeze the entire dessert or individual slices wrapped in both plastic wrap and foil, or sealed inside airtight containers. Thaw frozen pieces overnight in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to return to the perfect creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Christmas Cookie Lasagna
Christmas Cookie Lasagna is a star on its own, but pairing options make dessert even more fun. Serve this chilled treat with warm beverages like peppermint hot chocolate, spiced chai, or strong coffee to balance the richness. For holiday spreads, pair with other no bake treats, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive and crowd pleasing finish to any Christmas meal.
Nutritional Benefits
Though Christmas Cookie Lasagna is an indulgent seasonal treat, it is egg free and can be made nut free depending on ingredient selection. The dairy ingredients provide a source of calcium, and using lighter cream cheese and reduced fat whipped topping can modestly lighten the recipe. Portion control and using naturally colored sprinkles help make this dessert fit any holiday celebration in a mindful way.
Recipe Success Tips
If your cookie crust turns crumbly, add a tablespoon more melted butter or crush a few extra cookies if it feels too wet. Always use cold milk for the pudding so it sets quickly, and take care to chill each new layer briefly for defined stripes. Gently spread each layer without mixing to avoid muddied presentation, and for easier serving, allow the lasagna to sit out for 10 minutes before slicing.
This Christmas Cookie Lasagna is a festive, no bake centerpiece that brings holiday cheer to every table. Make it part of your holiday tradition and enjoy watching it become the most requested dessert of the season.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I make Christmas cookie lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Chill for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator or freeze for later use, making it convenient for busy holidays.
- → What type of cookies are best for the base?
Vanilla Oreo cookies work best, as they create a sturdy and flavorful crust that pairs well with the creamy layers above.
- → Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for whipped topping?
Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream can be used, just ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks for best structure in the dessert.
- → Is it possible to use different pudding flavors?
Yes, you can experiment with various instant pudding flavors to create new profiles, but cheesecake or vanilla enhances the holiday theme.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store Christmas cookie lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer periods. Defrost before serving.
- → Can sprinkles be omitted or changed?
Definitely, sprinkles can be left out or replaced with other decorative toppings to match your personal holiday style.