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There are holiday desserts that taste wonderful, and then there are desserts that stop the room the moment they’re placed on the table. This No Bake Christmas Cookie Lasagna is one of those unforgettable, show-stopping treats. It layers a buttery chocolate cookie crust with a creamy cheesecake layer, silky vanilla pudding, festive candies, and a soft cloud of whipped topping. Every bite is sweet, creamy, crunchy, and wonderfully nostalgic.
This simple yet celebratory dessert is ideal for busy holiday schedules because it requires no baking, no complicated techniques, and can even be prepared ahead of time. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, attending a party, or simply want a fun dessert for a cozy December night, this Christmas Cookie Lasagna brings cheer to every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert checks all the boxes: simple, festive, delicious, and perfect for making ahead. The layers come together effortlessly, and each one adds its own charm—crunch from the cookies, smoothness from the pudding, and a pop of color from the candies. It’s an excellent holiday recipe for both adults and kids, and it easily adapts to dietary needs with gluten-free or dairy-free swaps. Most of all, it brings delightful Christmas flavor without turning on the oven.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Christmas Cookie Lasagna Ingredients
For the Crust
• Chocolate Sandwich Cookies – These create a crunchy, chocolatey base. Use gluten-free cookies if needed.
• Butter – Helps bind the crust and adds richness. Dairy-free butter works perfectly too.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream Cheese – Gives the dessert its creamy structure. Dairy-free cream cheese can be used.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; powdered sugar works for a smoother texture.
• Whipped Topping – Makes the layer light and fluffy. Choose dairy-free if necessary.
For the Pudding Layer
• Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Adds a smooth, pudding layer. Chocolate or butterscotch variations also work well.
• Milk – Essential for thickening the pudding. Almond or coconut milk makes it dairy-free.
For the Topping
• Festive Candy-Coated Chocolates – Provide color and crunch.
• Whipped Cream – Finishes the dessert beautifully.
• Additional Candies – Any extras add a final festive flourish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for No Bake Christmas Cookie Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
Crush chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter in a medium bowl until the texture resembles damp sand. Press firmly into an 8×8-inch baking pan and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
Beat cream cheese and sugar for 2–3 minutes until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Layer
Whisk pudding mix and milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Pour over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
Step 4: Add the Candy Layer
Sprinkle festive candy-coated chocolates evenly over the pudding for color and crunch.
Step 5: Add Whipped Topping
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the candies, smoothing the surface. Add extra candies on top if desired.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Slice and serve chilled.
How to Serve
Serve chilled for the best texture. Add a dollop of whipped cream and extra candies for a festive touch. This dessert pairs well with warm drinks or a simple scoop of ice cream to contrast its creamy layers.
Additional Tips
• Take your time pressing the crust so it stays firm when sliced.
• Fold the whipped topping gently to keep the cream cheese layer airy.
• Chill overnight for cleaner slices and better structure.
• Add chocolate syrup or extra sprinkles for a decorative finish.
• For cleaner cuts, wipe your knife between slices.
Recipe Variations
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
• Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese, whipped topping, and milk with dairy-free alternatives.
• Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla.
• Mint Flavor: Add a small amount of peppermint extract to the cream cheese layer.
• Nut Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds between layers.
• Berry Version: Add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the cream cheese and pudding layers.
• S’mores: Use graham crackers instead of cookies and add mini marshmallows.
Freezing and Storage
• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 1 month. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and foil.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
• Reheating: None needed—serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cookies work best?
Chocolate sandwich cookies create the perfect crust. Gluten-free versions also work well.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes. Freeze individual slices well-wrapped for up to one month.
Why didn’t my pudding layer set?
It likely wasn’t whisked long enough. Whisk for a full 2–3 minutes. Add a bit more pudding mix if needed.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, and almond or coconut milk.
How long should it chill?
At least 4 hours, but overnight produces the best results.
No Bake Christmas Cookie Lasagna
Ingredients
- For the Crust
• Chocolate Sandwich Cookies – These cookies provide a crunchy base; opt for gluten-free cookies if needed.
• Butter – It binds the crust together for richness; dairy-free butter works for a dairy-free option.
- For the Cream Cheese Layer
- For the Pudding Layer
- For the Topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cookie Crust
Begin by crushing chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined. This mixture should feel like damp sand. Then, press it firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch pan, creating an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes until set.
