Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe

If you are looking for a dessert that delivers festive cheer in every bite, this Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe is an absolute must-try. This layered delight combines a buttery sugar cookie crust, a creamy blend of cream cheese and whipped topping, and a luscious vanilla pudding layer, all crowned with colorful sprinkles and the option of crushed peppermint candies. It’s simple to make yet impressively decadent, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season or any time you want to feel the magic of Christmas in a dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe plays a key role in building those satisfying layers and festive flavors. From the sugar cookie mix that forms a buttery crust to the creamy fillings that bring richness and a smooth texture, you’ll be amazed at how these simple staples come together for an extraordinary treat.

• Sugar cookie mix (15.25 oz): The foundation of your dessert, providing a sweet and soft crust that’s easy to work with.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture to the cookie dough for a perfect bake.
• Egg (1): Helps bind the cookie dough and gives it structure.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Brings a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness wonderfully.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer without graininess.
• Whipped topping (2 cups, divided): Lightens the cream cheese filling and tops the lush with fluffy texture.
• Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz): Adds a firm, velvety pudding layer that complements the cream cheese filling.
• Milk (2 cups): Required to prepare the pudding, bringing it to the perfect consistency.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
• Festive sprinkles (1 cup): Makes the dessert visually cheerful and adds a fun crunch.
• Optional crushed peppermint candies: A delightful holiday touch with a minty contrast to the creamy layers.

How to Make Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the cookie crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your lush won’t stick and will come out easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix the cookie dough

In a medium bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, melted butter, and the egg. Stir just until all the ingredients come together into a dough. You’ll appreciate how quick and straightforward this step is.

Step 3: Bake the crust

Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking dish to form a crust layer. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Once done, let the crust cool completely—this cooling step is crucial so the layers don’t melt into each other later.

Step 4: Make the cream cheese layer

Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. This creates the rich base that gives the dessert its luscious texture.

Step 5: Fold in whipped topping

Gently fold one cup of whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. This lightens the texture, making it airy without sacrificing creaminess. Spread this mixture evenly over your cooled cookie crust.

Step 6: Prepare the vanilla pudding

Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk for about two minutes until thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract to complement the sweet, creamy layers that surround it.

Step 7: Add pudding layer

Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly. This cool, silky layer adds an irresistible softness to the dessert.

Step 8: Top with whipped topping

Spread the remaining cup of whipped topping over the pudding. This final creamy layer will give the dish its signature fluffy crown.

Step 9: Decorate the lush

Sprinkle the festive sprinkles generously over the surface. For an extra burst of holiday spirit, add crushed peppermint candies. This adds both color and a refreshing peppermint crunch.

Step 10: Chill thoroughly

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. This step allows all the layers to set beautifully and the flavors to meld together into one harmonious bite.

Step 11: Serve and enjoy

Before serving, slice into squares and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight as they dig into the indulgent layers of the Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe.

How to Serve Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of crushed peppermint candies or a few extra sprinkles make perfect garnishes. They add festive flair and a burst of contrasting texture that complements the creamy layers wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a warm beverage like spiced hot cocoa or a robust cup of coffee. The warmth of the drink complements the cool, creamy layers of the lush, creating a cozy holiday moment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a holiday party, try serving Christmas Cookie Lush in individual clear cups or mini trifle bowls layered with extra sprinkles or crushed candies between layers. This presentation makes it easy to serve and adds a touch of elegance to your festive table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Christmas Cookie Lush refrigerated in an airtight container or covered dish. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy it conveniently after the festivities.

Freezing

While not ideal due to the whipped topping, you can freeze the cookie crust separately if you want to prepare parts ahead of time. Once thawed, assemble the remaining layers fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and should not be reheated, as warming will impact the creamy textures. Serve it straight from the refrigerator for the perfect balance of cool creaminess and soft cookie crust.

FAQs

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of the mix?

Absolutely! Homemade dough will work wonderfully and can add a personal touch, though the mix keeps things quick and consistent.

Is it possible to substitute the whipped topping?

You can substitute whipped cream, either store-bought or homemade. Just make sure it’s stable enough to hold up in the layering process.

How long does the Christmas Cookie Lush need to chill?

At least four hours is recommended to ensure the layers set properly, but overnight chilling gives the best flavor melding and texture.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to adapt the recipe. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Why does the dessert need to be refrigerated?

Refrigeration keeps the pudding and cream cheese layers firm and safe to eat, while also helping the flavors blend beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cookie Lush Recipe has a way of turning even the simplest gatherings into festive celebrations. Its layers of creamy, dreamy goodness paired with a sweet cookie crust create a dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat. Give it a try this holiday season and watch it become your new favorite treat to share with family and friends.

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