Christmas Cookie Lasagna

Introduction

This Christmas Cookie Lasagna layers fudgy brownie, fluffy cream cheese, and a crunchy golden cookie crumble for a festive, no-fuss dessert that looks like a party on a plate. It’s perfect for busy holiday entertaining when you want something showy but simple to assemble. Make the base with a boxed brownie mix, whip up a light cream cheese layer, and finish with colorful red and green M&M’s for instant holiday cheer. If you love easy holiday sweets, try pairing this with a crunchy cookie tray like Caramel Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies for a fun variety.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe shines because it balances effortless prep with a bold holiday look. Using a brownie mix keeps hands-on time short so you can focus on decorating and enjoying guests. The golden cookie crumble adds a lovely contrast to the dense brownie and silky cream cheese layer, giving every bite variety. It travels well to potlucks and makes a striking contribution to any dessert table, especially when the top is arranged in a pattern of red and green M&M’s. If you want more small-bite ideas to round out a dessert spread, check out these playful cookie bites like Boston Cream Pie Cookie Bites for inspiration.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a rich chocolate underlayer followed by a tangy, sweet cream cheese filling that is lightened with whipped topping. The crushed golden sandwich cookies bring a buttery crunch that keeps the lasagna from feeling one note. Bright, candy coated M&M’s add bursts of color, texture, and a familiar candy sweetness that kids love. The combination of fudgy, creamy, and crunchy makes this dessert satisfying yet festive. Chilling helps the layers set so each slice holds together with clean, attractive layers.

Ingredients

• 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed)
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz whipped topping (thawed)
• 18 golden sandwich cookies, finely crushed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz whipped topping (for top layer)
• 1 cup Christmas red and green M&M’s
• 2 tablespoons red and white sprinkles (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the brownie mix box and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the brownie batter exactly as directed on the box.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
4. Bake until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, usually about 20 to 25 minutes.
5. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
6. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
7. Gently fold 8 oz of thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until uniform and airy.
8. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base and smooth the surface.
9. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to help the cream cheese layer set.
10. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed golden sandwich cookies with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
11. Sprinkle the cookie crumble over the chilled cream cheese layer and press lightly to help it adhere.
12. Spread the remaining 8 oz whipped topping over the cookie layer to create a smooth, fluffy top.
13. Decorate the surface with red and green M&M’s in a festive pattern and add red and white sprinkles if desired.
14. Refrigerate the Christmas Cookie Lasagna for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to meld and to firm up for clean slices.

Tips for Best Results

Chill each layer briefly to make assembly neater and to prevent sliding when you add the next layer. Crush the golden cookies finely for an even crumble that presses smoothly into the cream cheese. Use room temperature cream cheese so the filling blends ultra-smooth without lumps. If you like extra texture, stir a handful of chopped nuts into the cookie crumble layer. For a prettier finish pipe small rosettes of whipped topping around the edges before adding candies.

Storage and Make Ahead

This dessert stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Prepare it the night before to give the layers plenty of time to set and to ease holiday day hosting. If you need to freeze, cut into portions and wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Keep decorations like M&M’s on top until shortly before serving if you want them to stay glossy.

Final Thought

Christmas Cookie Lasagna is an easy way to make a festive statement without complicated baking. It combines familiar flavors into a layered showstopper that looks like you spent hours crafting it. Serve chilled, slice neatly, and enjoy the smiles it brings around the table.

Conclusion

For another take on layered holiday desserts, see this version inspired by similar flavors at Christmas Lasagna Dessert – To Simply Inspire.

FAQ

Print