01 -
Using a food processor or by hand, crush Christmas sugar cookies or shortbread cookies into fine crumbs.
02 -
Mix crushed cookies with melted unsalted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
03 -
Press the cookie and butter mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 20x20cm (8x8-inch) square dish.
04 -
Refrigerate the crust while the next layer is prepared.
05 -
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
06 -
Gently fold heavy cream or whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture.
07 -
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
08 -
In a separate bowl, whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk and optional almond extract until it thickens.
09 -
Stir in crushed Christmas cookies into the thickened pudding mixture.
10 -
Evenly distribute the pudding layer over the cheesecake mixture.
11 -
Spread whipped topping smoothly over the pudding layer.
12 -
Garnish the top with crushed cookies, festive sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips.
13 -
Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure proper setting.