Description
Christmas Cookie Lush is a festive layered dessert combining a baked sugar cookie crust with creamy layers of sweetened cream cheese, whipped topping, and instant vanilla pudding. Topped with colorful sprinkles and optional crushed peppermint candies, this no-bake layered dessert is perfect for holiday celebrations, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Crust
- 1 package (15.25 oz) sugar cookie mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup whipped topping (for topping)
- 1 cup festive sprinkles
- Optional: crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare and preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the cookie dough: In a medium bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, melted butter, and egg, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
- Bake the crust: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to create the crust layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Remove and allow it to cool completely before adding layers.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Fold 1 cup of whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture gently until fully incorporated, then spread evenly over the cooled cookie crust.
- Make the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Assemble the pudding layer: Pour the thickened pudding over the cream cheese layer and spread gently to cover evenly.
- Add the whipped topping: Spread the additional cup of whipped topping evenly on top of the pudding layer.
- Decorate: Sprinkle festive sprinkles over the whipped topping layer for color and festivity. Optionally, garnish with crushed peppermint candies for an extra holiday touch.
- Chill to set: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow all layers to set properly and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, slice into squares and enjoy the rich, creamy layers of your Christmas Cookie Lush dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the cookie crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to achieve smooth, creamy layers.
- You can prepare this dessert a day ahead to enhance the flavors and texture.
- Optional crushed peppermint candies add a refreshing mint flavor and festive appearance.
- This dessert should be kept refrigerated until serving to maintain its structure and freshness.
