If you’re dreaming of a show-stopping holiday dessert that captures pure nostalgic joy, you’re going to fall in love with Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake. This recipe takes those iconic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and transforms them into the most whimsical, creamy, and utterly irresistible cheesecake. With layers of beloved childhood treats, rich cream cheese, and cheerful sprinkles, every bite is a celebration of the season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving something sweet and playful, this festive twist on classic cheesecake will steal the spotlight (and hearts) at your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake is short but mighty! Each item is a building block for flavor, creaminess, and that unmistakable festive flair. Don’t skip anything—each plays a special part in making this dessert unforgettable.
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: The star and base of our cheesecake, providing a soft crust and nostalgic flavor in every layer.
- Cream cheese: Use softened, full-fat cream cheese for the richest, smoothest texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the cakes.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake batter.
- Sour cream: Gives a subtle tang and extra creaminess to balance the sweetness.
- Large eggs: Help set the cheesecake and provide a luscious, light structure.
- Heavy cream: Makes the filling ultra creamy and silky.
- Whipped topping: A fluffy finish for the top—don’t forget a little extra for serving!
- Red and green sprinkles: For the cheerful, unmistakable Christmas look.
- Crushed Christmas Tree Cakes or white chocolate shavings: Optional, but they add incredible texture and make your slices look extra special.
- Nonstick spray: Ensures your masterpiece pops out of the pan without a hitch.
How to Make Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly greasing a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. This crucial step makes for easy cake removal and neat slices later, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Create the Tree Cake Crust
Carefully cut 4 of the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes in half lengthwise. Arrange these halves, flat-side down, in the bottom of your prepared pan to form a simple yet show-stopping crust. Press the cakes down gently to get a cohesive, even layer that forms the tasty foundation of your cheesecake.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until totally smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Next, add vanilla extract and sour cream, blending until just incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed to avoid overmixing. Finally, stir in the heavy cream for an extra touch of silkiness.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour your creamy cheesecake mixture over the tree cake crust and smooth the top. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in a few crushed Tree Cake pieces for surprise bites of extra holiday cheer. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is just set. (It should still have the slightest wobble!) Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour—this gentle cooling helps prevent cracks.
Step 5: Chill to Perfection
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool further in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This step is where the magic happens: the flavors mingle, and the texture becomes ultra creamy and sliceable.
Step 6: Decorate and Serve
Top your chilled cheesecake with swirls or dollops of whipped topping. Sprinkle on festive red and green sprinkles, and finish with crushed Christmas Tree Cakes or a shower of white chocolate shavings for extra pizzazz. Slice, serve, and let the holiday memories begin!
How to Serve Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake
Garnishes
Go all out with heaps of extra whipped topping, generous handfuls of red and green sprinkles, and a sprinkle of crushed Christmas Tree Cakes or white chocolate shavings. These final touches transform your Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake into a dazzling holiday centerpiece that everyone will want to photograph (and devour).
Side Dishes
The richness of cheesecake pairs wonderfully with something fresh and light. Try serving sliced oranges, a simple berry compote, or even spiced poached pears on the side. Each adds brightness and balance to the decadence of this holiday treat.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get festive and fun, cut your Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake into mini triangles and stick tiny candy “ornaments” onto each. Or, try making bite-sized versions in muffin tins for a grab-and-go party tray that will have guests swooning. Edible glitter or gold leaf can turn each slice into a magical holiday moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep the whipped topping and garnishes separate until you’re ready to serve again, so everything stays fresh and picture-perfect!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze slices (or the whole cheesecake, minus the whipped topping and sprinkles) for longer storage. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for a taste of Christmas again.
Reheating
No need to reheat—this cheesecake is best served chilled! If it’s straight from the freezer, transfer slices to the fridge for several hours or until they’re creamy, dreamy, and ready to eat. Top with fresh garnishes just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of Little Debbie Cakes?
Absolutely! While the original vanilla flavor gets all the attention in this Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake, feel free to experiment with chocolate or other seasonal varieties for a creative spin. Just keep in mind, the overall color and flavor may change a bit—but that’s half the fun!
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
To minimize cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, especially after adding the eggs. Letting the cheesecake cool gently in the oven with the door slightly ajar also helps it set more evenly and keeps the top silky smooth.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Absolutely—this is the ultimate make-ahead dessert! Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake actually tastes even better after chilling overnight, so prep it the day before and simply add garnishes before serving.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
If a springform pan isn’t handy, you can use a deep-dish pie pan lined with parchment for easy removal. Alternatively, make individual cheesecakes using muffin tins for an adorable party-ready option.
How do I get neat, clean slices?
For picture-perfect servings, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each slice. This simple trick gives you smooth, clean cuts and makes your Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake look bakery-worthy!
Final Thoughts
If you love festive flavors, nostalgia, and easy-to-make treats that deliver big on holiday cheer, you have to try this Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake. It’s decadent yet playful, beautifully festive, and sure to become the talk of your Christmas dessert table. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself bringing it back for the holidays year after year!
Print
Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with this delightful Christmas Little Debbie Tree Cheesecake. Creamy and rich, this cheesecake is a perfect blend of vanilla, cream cheese, and a hint of holiday magic from the iconic Christmas Tree Cakes. It’s a show-stopping dessert that will dazzle your guests and family during the holiday season.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 6 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (original vanilla flavor)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (plus more for garnish)
- Red and green sprinkles (for decoration)
- Crushed Christmas Tree Cakes or white chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
- Nonstick spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
- Crust Layer: Cut 4 Christmas Tree Cakes in half lengthwise and line the bottom of the pan to create a crust. Press gently to flatten.
- Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla, sour cream, eggs, and heavy cream. Pour mixture over cake layer.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until set. Rest in the oven for 1 hour, then chill for 4 hours or overnight.
- Final Touches: Spread whipped topping on top, garnish, and serve chilled.
Notes
- For extra flavor, fold in crushed Tree Cake pieces into the batter before baking.
- You can also make individual cheesecakes using a muffin tin and mini cakes for a fun holiday party treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
