Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe

If you are searching for a festive dessert that dazzles both in flavor and presentation, this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is an absolute gem to add to your holiday baking lineup. Layers of soft gingerbread cookies nestled between creamy, dreamy mixtures of cream cheese and butterscotch pudding create a luscious treat that is bursting with seasonal warmth. It’s a no-bake delight that captures all the best parts of Christmas in every bite, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this recipe brings magic to any holiday gathering with its delightful texture and inviting spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is simple yet essential, working together to create a perfect balance of richness, sweetness, and festive spice. From the classic gingerbread cookies to the smooth cream cheese blend and the sweet butterscotch pudding, each element adds its unique texture and flavor.

• Gingerbread cookies: Use about 24 to layer a spicy, chewy base that brings that iconic Christmas flavor.
• Cream cheese (1 ½ cups, softened): Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture smoothly without graininess.
• Whipped topping (2 cups): Creates a light, fluffy texture to keep the layers airy and delightful.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the richness with a warm, aromatic hint.
• Butterscotch pudding mix (1 cup, instant): Provides a luscious, buttery layer that is irresistibly sweet.
• Milk (2 cups): Needed to prepare the pudding to the perfect creamy consistency.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Sprinkled on top for an extra burst of cozy spice.
• Crushed candy canes (½ cup): Adds a festive crunch and peppermint zing as a garnish.
• Mini chocolate chips (½ cup): For a melty, chocolaty touch that complements every bite.
• Additional gingerbread cookies: Saved for layering and decorative garnish to finish your masterpiece.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by grabbing a 9×13 inch dish—it’s the perfect size for layering all the delicious components. Make sure it’s clean and ready for assembly so your layers stay tidy and beautiful.

Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This is your foundation for the luscious middle layers that will make the lasagna unforgettable.

Step 3: Sweeten the Mixture

Slowly add in the powdered sugar, mixing well as you go, until the cream cheese is evenly sweetened and velvety smooth—no lumps here!

Step 4: Lighten It Up

Gently fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. This step is key to creating that light and fluffy texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Step 5: Prepare the Butterscotch Pudding

In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant butterscotch pudding mix with 2 cups of milk until the pudding thickens. This adds a sweet, buttery richness that perfectly complements the tangy cream cheese.

Step 6: Combine Cream Cheese Mixture and Pudding

Carefully fold the thickened pudding into the cream cheese mixture, blending the flavors and textures until smooth and harmonious.

Step 7: Begin Layering with Gingerbread Cookies

Place a full single layer of gingerbread cookies to cover the bottom of your prepared dish. These cookies act like the ‘noodles’ in this dessert lasagna, providing that signature spicy crunch.

Step 8: Add the First Creamy Layer

Spread half of your combined cream cheese and pudding mixture evenly over the cookie layer, making sure every cookie is lightly covered.

Step 9: Create the Middle Cookie Layer

Add another full layer of gingerbread cookies on top, pressing gently to keep everything cozy and compact.

Step 10: Spread the Remaining Creamy Mixture

Top the second cookie layer with the remaining cream cheese and pudding mixture, again spreading it out evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 11: Finish with a Top Cookie Layer

Place a final layer of gingerbread cookies on top, covering the whole surface for a beautiful, textured finish.

Step 12: Sprinkle with Cinnamon

Dust the ground cinnamon over the top layer, giving the entire dessert that warm and inviting holiday scent.

Step 13: Chill to Set

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step allows all the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up beautifully.

Step 14: Garnish for Festive Flair

Just before serving, sprinkle crushed candy canes and mini chocolate chips over the top for a dazzling display of color, texture, and extra bursts of holiday flavor.

How to Serve Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

Adding crushed candy canes and mini chocolate chips as garnishes not only brightens up the dessert but adds delightful peppermint crunch and chocolatey sweetness. These toppings turn your lasagna into a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike.

Side Dishes

This Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or a rich coffee, balancing the sweetness. For more festive flair, consider serving it alongside warm spiced mulled wine or a fresh citrus salad to cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try serving individual portions in clear glasses or mason jars to showcase the layers, complete with a small festive spoon. You can also top each serving with a sprig of mint or an additional cookie for an elegant holiday touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Christmas Cookie Lasagna can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the layers stay firm and the flavors continue to develop.

Freezing

If you want to make this ahead of time and freeze it, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not necessary and could alter the texture. Serve it cold straight from the fridge for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of gingerbread?

Absolutely! While gingerbread cookies offer that classic Christmas spice, you can try snickerdoodles or sugar cookies for a different twist. Just make sure the cookies are sturdy enough to hold the layers.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese, pudding mix, and whipped topping for plant-based alternatives. Choose vegan gingerbread cookies as well to keep the festive spirit intact.

Does the dessert need to be refrigerated before serving?

Yes, chilling the Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe for at least 4 hours is essential. It gives the layers time to set and allows the flavors to mingle beautifully.

How long will the dessert last once assembled?

When stored properly in the fridge, this dessert will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. After that, the cookies may start to soften too much.

Can I prepare this dessert for a large crowd?

Definitely! Using a larger dish or doubling the recipe will let you serve more guests. This recipe scales well and retains its charm no matter the size.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe is truly one of those holiday treats that brings joy with every spoonful. Its combination of spices, creamy layers, and festive garnishes makes it stand out on any dessert table. I encourage you to try making this dessert to add a unique and delicious twist to your Christmas celebrations. Once you do, it’s sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come!

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