Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe | Easy, Festive & Delicious

There’s something magical about a dessert that looks like Christmas morning tastes creamy, crunchy, sweet, and full of color. This Christmas Cookie Lush brings it all together in one chilled, layered dream. With peppermint cream cheese, cheesecake pudding, and a vanilla cookie crust, it’s a no-bake miracle that makes holiday hosting a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cookie Lush

This dessert has everything you want from a holiday treat it’s easy, festive, and incredibly creamy. You don’t need to bake or fuss with fancy tools. You’ll love the way each bite melts with peppermint cream and cookie crunch. Plus, it’s a make-ahead winner, perfect for parties, potlucks, and cozy family nights. The sprinkles make it merry; the layers make it irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy Christmas Cookie Lush:

• 48 vanilla Oreo cookies, divided (for the crust and topping)
• 6 tablespoons melted butter (for binding the cookie crust)
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened (for smooth texture)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (adds sweetness and structure)
• 2 tablespoons holiday sprinkles, divided (for color and cheer)
• 2 tubs (8 oz each) whipped topping (adds fluff and lightness)
• 1 box (3.4 oz) cheesecake instant pudding mix (for creamy depth)
• 2 cups cold milk (helps set the pudding)
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (adds holiday flavor)

Optional add-ins: crushed peppermint candies, chocolate cookies, or even a layer of red fruit for a festive twist.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Lush Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Make the Cookie Crust

Start by lining a 9×13-inch dish with parchment paper if you want easy lifting later. Crush 36 cookies in a food processor or place them in a zip bag and roll with a pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and ½ tablespoon sprinkles. Then press the mixture firmly into the dish to form a solid crust. It should feel slightly firm but not dry.

Step 2 – Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Next, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until creamy and smooth. This is your base of sweetness and holiday aroma. Fold in one tub of whipped topping along with ½ tablespoon sprinkles for color. Spread this pink-flecked mixture evenly over the cookie crust. It should glide on easily when the cream cheese is soft enough.

Step 3 – Mix the Pudding Layer

In another bowl, whisk the cheesecake pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Add ½ tablespoon sprinkles to the mix for a touch of fun. Spread this pudding layer gently over the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to keep the layers distinct and even.

Step 4 – Add the Final Topping and Chill

Spread the second tub of whipped topping over the pudding layer like a soft snowy blanket. Crush the remaining 12 cookies and scatter them on top. Sprinkle with the last bit of holiday color. Chill the lush for at least 4 hours or freeze it for firmer, cleaner slices. If frozen, let it thaw slightly before serving.

Tips for Success

Always bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing; it makes everything smoother. Chill the dessert thoroughly before slicing to keep those pretty layers intact. You can freeze it for about 30 minutes before cutting for perfect squares. Also, homemade whipped cream works well if you prefer it over store-bought. Keep in mind that sugar-free pudding mix may change the texture a little.

Variations & Flavor Ideas

Try a double chocolate version by swapping vanilla cookies for chocolate ones and using chocolate pudding. You can also add crushed peppermint candies for extra crunch or layer in raspberries or cherries for a pop of fruit. For a softer flavor, use white chocolate pudding instead of cheesecake pudding. Each option turns this lush into something new and festive.

Substitutions

If you don’t have vanilla Oreos, any vanilla sandwich cookie will do. Homemade whipped cream works perfectly in place of store-bought topping. You can also experiment with pudding flavors vanilla, white chocolate, or even pistachio for a green holiday hue. Just remember, every swap changes flavor and texture slightly, so adjust sweetness if needed.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store your Christmas Cookie Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 1 month. For clean, easy slices, cut it while slightly frozen. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Because it needs several hours to set, it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before your gathering, and you’ll thank yourself later.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Such Recipes

• Peppermint Bark Brownies for a festive chocolate twist
• Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars with holiday flair
• Red, White and Blue Cheesecake Bars for patriotic celebrations
• Cherry Pie Cookie Cups as a fruity alternative
• Chocolate Crinkle Cookies for classic Christmas cookie trays
• Pistachio Pudding Cookies with seasonal colors
• Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars perfect for holiday dessert tables

Conclusion

This Christmas Cookie Lush blends the best parts of the season creamy cheesecake layers, cool peppermint, and sweet cookie crunch into one no-bake dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to share. It’s festive, fuss-free, and full of joy. Add your own twist with toppings or flavors, and make it your new holiday tradition. Share your creation with friends on Pinterest or follow along on Facebook for more merry ideas.

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