If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both festive and ridiculously easy to pull together, you’ve just found your new go-to. The Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe is one I absolutely love because it layers all the holiday flavors and textures in a no-bake, dreamy dessert that your family and guests won’t be able to get enough of. Trust me, once you try this, it quickly becomes the star of every holiday gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy No-Bake Layers: No oven needed, so it’s perfect when you’re juggling holiday cooking chaos.
- Festive Flavor Explosion: Peppermint, sprinkles, and Oreo cookies make every bite feel like a celebration.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping this in advance means less stress and more time with loved ones.
- Crowd-Pleaser: My family goes crazy for it—so much that it’s almost impossible to get leftovers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe come together in a way that’s both simple and magical—the vanilla Oreos bring that classic cookie crunch, while the layers of cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping create a creamy dream. If you’re shopping, just make sure to get fresh, good-quality cream cheese and that festive pudding mix to really nail the flavors.
- Vanilla Oreo Cookies: Choose the classic version for that perfect sweet and slightly crunchy base.
- Butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crust together—unsalted is always a safe bet.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the creamy filling rich and smooth.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness without the graininess—perfect for smooth mixing.
- Holiday Sprinkles: For that cheerful pop of color and festive feel.
- Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, it adds an airy texture to the layers.
- Cheesecake Instant Pudding Mix: This is the secret to the luscious middle layer with a subtle tang.
- Cold Milk: Needed to whip up the instant pudding to the perfect consistency.
Variations
I love making this Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe my own depending on the mood or who’s coming over. It’s such a versatile dessert that you can tweak it to suit just about any taste or dietary need without losing that irresistible charm.
- Mint Lovers Unite: I sometimes add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream cheese layer for an extra holiday kick—my kids adore the fresh minty taste.
- Chocolate Twist: Substitute chocolate Oreos instead of vanilla if you’re craving a richer flavor—and trust me, that’s a game changer.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping options to make it suitable for lactose-intolerant guests without sacrificing texture.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted pecans or crushed peppermint candy on top for extra crunch and festive flair.
How to Make Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe
Step 1: Create the Cookie Crust
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper—this makes cleanup so much easier. Then crush 36 of the vanilla Oreos into fine crumbs. I usually pop them in a zip-top bag and smash with a rolling pin, but if you’ve got a food processor, that’s even faster. Mix those crumbs with melted butter and half a tablespoon of holiday sprinkles. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your dish to form a crust that holds tight without falling apart. This crust is the base that holds all those creamy layers together, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. Fold in one tub of whipped topping along with the remaining half tablespoon of sprinkles for that festive pop. I discovered this trick of folding—not mixing—helps keep the layer light and airy, just like a fluffy cloud of holiday joy. Spread this layer evenly over your cookie crust.
Step 3: Make and Add the Pudding Layer
Whisk the instant cheesecake pudding mix with cold milk according to package instructions until thickened. Stir in the last half tablespoon of sprinkles to keep the holiday spirit alive. Carefully spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer—taking care not to mix the layers together. This step can feel a little delicate, so a gentle hand here goes a long way for neat, distinct layers.
Step 4: Top and Chill
Top your dessert with the remaining whipped topping to create that soft, snowy cloud look. Finally, crush the last 12 Oreos and sprinkle them over the top along with any leftover sprinkles. Pop the entire dish into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, if you want those perfect, clean-cut slices, freeze it for firmer texture. I’ve learned that freezing first and thawing a bit before serving makes all the difference for beautiful presentation.
Pro Tips for Making Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe
- Perfect Crust Pressing: Use the bottom of a flat glass to press the crust evenly—it ensures a sturdy base that holds the layers without crumbling.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Don’t rush softening—leave it out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for the smoothest mixture.
- Layer Patience: Let each layer settle for a few minutes before adding the next to avoid blending and keep those pretty layers intact.
- Clean Slices: Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice—this trick gives you those neat cuts without disturbing the dessert.
How to Serve Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe
Garnishes
I like to keep the garnishing simple but festive—extra holiday sprinkles and a few crushed Oreos on top do the trick beautifully. Sometimes I add a few whole mint leaves or even a drizzle of white chocolate for a classy holiday touch. You can’t go wrong with a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow, which really ups the charm factor.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa or spiced coffee—perfect for cozying up after holiday meals. If you want to keep the theme going, serve alongside gingerbread cookies or some fresh-cut fruit for a refreshing contrast to all that richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a holiday party, I love layering this dessert in individual clear cups or mason jars—everyone gets their own personal treat, and it looks so festive. You can also serve it in a trifle bowl to show off those beautiful layers. If you’re bringing it as a gift, a decorative glass dish with a big bow makes a gorgeous presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge where they stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit when it sits overnight, so sometimes I find the leftovers even tastier the next day. Just make sure to keep it chilled so the whipped topping stays nice and fluffy.
Freezing
Freezing is a lifesaver! I freeze the whole dish before slicing, which firms it up and makes cutting super clean. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and foil if you want to save portions—then thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. The texture holds up beautifully when thawed slowly.
Reheating
No reheating needed here since this is a cold dessert. I just let frozen slices sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes to an hour before serving so they soften up just perfectly—not too icy, not too melty. It’s the perfect texture for enjoying every creamy bite.
FAQs
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Can I use other flavors of Oreos in the Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe?
Absolutely! While vanilla Oreos give a classic taste, switching to chocolate or even mint-flavored Oreos adds a fun twist and can be tailored to your family’s preferences. Just remember that stronger flavors might change the overall taste balance of the layers.
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Do I have to use instant pudding mix for the pudding layer?
Instant pudding mix is key for the quick and creamy consistency that holds the layers nicely. Using homemade pudding can work, but it will be more time-consuming and might affect the texture. The instant mix is definitely the easiest and tastiest shortcut here.
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Can I make the Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert actually benefits from making ahead since chilling allows the layers to set beautifully and flavors to meld. I usually prepare it the day before a party so all I have to do is slice and serve when guests arrive.
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How do I get clean slices when serving?
Running your knife under hot water and wiping it clean between cuts is a simple trick that makes your slices look neat and professional. For even better results, freeze the dish before slicing and thaw slightly before serving to avoid messy layers.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, the Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe has become one of my holiday staples, and I’m pretty sure it will be for you too. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for guests but is easy and forgiving enough to whip up on a busy day. Every time I bring it out, I see smiles all around—and that’s the real magic of holiday cooking, isn’t it? So go ahead, give this recipe a try and make your celebrations a little sweeter and way more memorable.
Print
Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Christmas Cookie Lush is a festive, no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery Oreo crust, creamy peppermint-infused cream cheese layer, luscious cheesecake pudding, and a whipped topping crowned with crushed cookies and holiday sprinkles. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make treat combines rich flavors and textures to delight your guests.
Ingredients
Crust
- 36 vanilla Oreo cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ tablespoon holiday sprinkles
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping
- ½ tablespoon holiday sprinkles
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) cheesecake instant pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- ½ tablespoon holiday sprinkles
Topping
- 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping
- 12 vanilla Oreo cookies, crushed
- Remaining holiday sprinkles (approximately 1 tablespoon)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Crush 36 vanilla Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed cookies with melted butter and ½ tablespoon of holiday sprinkles. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peppermint extract, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one tub (8 ounces) of whipped topping along with ½ tablespoon of holiday sprinkles until combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the baking dish.
- Prepare the pudding layer: Whisk the cheesecake instant pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Stir in ½ tablespoon of holiday sprinkles. Spread the thickened pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
- Add the topping: Spread the remaining tub (8 ounces) of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer. Then, crush the remaining 12 vanilla Oreo cookies and sprinkle them over the top along with the remaining holiday sprinkles to decorate.
- Chill the dessert: Place the dessert in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to set. For firmer slices, freeze the dish and then thaw it for about an hour before serving.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice the dessert into 16 pieces and serve chilled. Enjoy your festive and creamy Christmas Cookie Lush!
Notes
- For the cleanest and most precise slices, freeze the dessert before cutting and thaw for about an hour before serving.
- You can line the baking dish with parchment paper to make removal easier and prevent sticking.
- Use peppermint extract to add a festive minty flavor, but you can adjust or omit based on taste preferences.
- Holiday sprinkles add both color and texture; feel free to use your favorite festive variety.
- This dessert is best served chilled and should be stored in the refrigerator if not frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/16th of recipe)
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: thirty-two g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
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