Why You’ll Love Lebkuchen-Lasagne Recipe

Lebkuchen-Lasagne is the kind of dessert that draws a “wow” at first sight and an even bigger smile with the first bite. The layers of spiced cookie crumbs, rich mascarpone cream, and tangy fruit preserves create a balance of sweetness and warmth. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare—no baking, no fuss—just chill and serve. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on the ingredients you have or the flavor profiles you prefer. Whether you’re a holiday dessert traditionalist or love trying creative twists, this dessert ticks all the boxes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

300 g Lebkuchen, crumbled
500 g mascarpone
200 ml whipped cream
2 teaspoons cinnamon
150 g crumbled speculoos (Spekulatius)
150 g lingonberries or cranberry preserves
100 g orange segments (optional)

Directions

Crumble the cookies: Start by crushing the Lebkuchen and speculoos cookies into small pieces. You can use a food processor or do it by hand for a more rustic texture.
Prepare the cream layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone with the whipped cream and cinnamon. Whisk or beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Add fruit elements: Gently fold in the lingonberries and orange segments (if using) to infuse the cream with a fruity contrast.
Layer the dessert: In a glass or ceramic dish, begin by spreading a layer of cookie crumbs on the bottom. Top it with a generous layer of the mascarpone mixture. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cream layer.
Chill: Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Chilling overnight is even better, as it helps the layers set and the flavors deepen.
Serve: Cut into squares or spoon into bowls, and serve cold.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 8
Prep time: 25–30 minutes
Chill time: At least 4 hours (overnight recommended)
Total time: About 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Chocolate addition: Add chocolate chips or a drizzle of ganache between the layers for an extra-rich twist.
Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped roasted nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, on top for a bit of texture.
Liqueur touch: Mix a splash of amaretto or orange liqueur into the cream for a grown-up version.
Vegan version: Use plant-based mascarpone and whipped cream alternatives, along with vegan cookies.
Fruit swaps: Try layering with cherries, raspberries, or poached pears instead of lingonberries or oranges.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store the Lebkuchen-Lasagne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: This dessert is best served cold. Reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

What is Lebkuchen-Lasagne?

It’s a no-bake dessert inspired by the traditional layered structure of lasagna, made with spiced German Lebkuchen cookies, creamy mascarpone filling, and festive add-ins like lingonberries and cinnamon.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, it’s perfect for preparing the day before serving. In fact, letting it sit overnight improves the flavor and texture.

Can I use other cookies besides Lebkuchen?

Absolutely. Speculoos, gingerbread cookies, or even graham crackers can be used as substitutes.

Is this dessert child-friendly?

Yes, it’s non-alcoholic and mild in spice, making it suitable for children and adults alike.

What if I don’t have mascarpone?

You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese or a thick Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.

Can I use frozen berries instead of preserves?

Yes, just make sure they are thawed and drained well before folding into the cream.

Do I need a special dish for layering?

A standard square or rectangular glass dish works well. You could also prepare individual servings in small jars or cups.

How do I keep the cream from being too runny?

Make sure your whipped cream is stiff before mixing it with mascarpone, and chill the finished dessert thoroughly.

Can I decorate the top?

Yes! Consider dusting with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or cookie crumbs for a beautiful finish.

Can I make this sugar-free?

You can use sugar-free cookies and sweeten the mascarpone mixture with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.

Conclusion

Lebkuchen-Lasagne is a charming and creative dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season in every bite. Its balance of spice, creaminess, and fruity brightness makes it both comforting and refreshing. Whether served at a festive dinner or as a sweet surprise during the winter months, it’s a dessert that leaves a lasting impression. Easy to prepare, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable, this no-bake treat deserves a place in your seasonal recipe collection.

Lebkuchen-Lasagne: A Festive No-Bake Holiday Dessert

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Lebkuchen-Lasagne ist ein festliches No-Bake-Dessert mit Schichten aus würzigem Lebkuchen, cremiger Mascarpone-Zimt-Creme und fruchtigen Preiselbeer- oder Cranberry-Noten. Es kombiniert traditionelle Weihnachtsaromen mit einer modernen, einfachen Zubereitung.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 30 Minuten
Cook Time: 0 Minuten
Total Time: 4 Stunden 30 Minuten
Yield: 8 Portionen
Category: Dessert
Method: Kühlen
Cuisine: Deutsch
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

300 g Lebkuchen, zerbröselt
150 g Spekulatius, zerbröselt
500 g Mascarpone
200 ml Schlagsahne
2 TL Zimt
150 g Preiselbeer- oder Cranberry-Konfitüre
100 g Orangenfilets (optional)

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Instructions

Die Lebkuchen und Spekulatius grob zerbröseln, per Hand oder im Mixer.
Mascarpone, Zimt und die geschlagene Sahne in einer Schüssel cremig verrühren, bis die Masse glatt und luftig ist.
Preiselbeer- oder Cranberry-Konfitüre sowie ggf. Orangenstücke vorsichtig unter die Creme heben.
Eine Schicht Keksbrösel in eine Glas- oder Keramikform geben.
Eine Schicht der Mascarponecreme darauf verteilen.
Schrittweise weiter schichten, bis alle Zutaten aufgebraucht sind. Mit einer Cremeschicht abschließen.
Abgedeckt mindestens 4 Stunden – besser über Nacht – im Kühlschrank durchziehen lassen.
Vor dem Servieren nach Belieben mit Keksbröseln, Zimt oder Kakao bestreuen.

Notes

Ideal zum Vortag-Zubereiten – durch längeres Kühlen wird der Geschmack intensiver.
In kleine Gläser oder Dessertschalen schichtbar für Einzelportionen.
Mascarpone kann durch Frischkäse oder griechischen Joghurt ersetzt werden.
Auch andere Früchte wie Kirschen, Himbeeren oder Birnen passen gut als Variation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Portion
Calories: 450
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 110 mg
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 19 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 1.5 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg