There is something truly magical about the holidays, and the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe captures that spirit perfectly in a dessert. This festive cheesecake blends the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the playful charm of Little Debbie’s iconic Christmas Tree Cakes, all brought together with a luscious white chocolate ganache and festive red and green decorations. It’s a guaranteed showstopper for your holiday gatherings and an irresistible treat that feels like hugging a cozy winter memory on your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, essential ingredients that each play a starring role in flavor, texture, and visual appeal. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the fluffy cream cheese filling and the colorful festive toppings, every component is perfectly balanced to make your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe truly unforgettable.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): Forms a crunchy, buttery base that holds the cheesecake together.
- Butter, melted (â…“ cup): Adds richness to the crust and helps it set firmly.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 blocks): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, smooth and tangy.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Balances the tang of the cream cheese with just the right sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whipped to stiff peaks for a light, airy texture in the filling.
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (1 box, 5-count): Adds fun, festive flavor and a surprise layer in the cheesecake.
- White chocolate, chopped (8 ounces): Melts into a silky ganache that tops the dessert beautifully.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Used to create the luscious white chocolate ganache.
- Store-bought red decorating icing: For adding cheerful, delicate red drizzle on top.
- Green sanding sugar: Sprinkled to add a sparkling, festive green finish.
How to Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are fully coated and clump together. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare your creamy filling—this creates a sturdy and flavorful foundation for your cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer. Keep at it until the mixture is perfectly smooth and luxuriously creamy, eliminating every last lump for that signature cheesecake texture.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until you see stiff peaks standing tall. This fluffy whipped cream is crucial for building a light, airy filling. Gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture, folding just enough to combine and keep all that fluffy goodness intact.
Step 4: Build the Cheesecake Layers
Spread half of the cheesecake mixture evenly over your chilled graham cracker crust. Then, carefully arrange the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes in a single layer on top, pressing them down slightly so they nestle into the filling. This festive layer is the magic that makes this recipe stand out!
Step 5: Finish the Filling
Now top the cakes with the remaining cheesecake mixture, smoothing it evenly over the surface with a spatula. This seals in the delightful Christmas Tree Cakes and gives your cheesecake a smooth, inviting top.
Step 6: Chill Until Firm
Cover your masterpiece and place it in the refrigerator for at least six hours or overnight. This chilling time is essential to let the flavors meld and for the cheesecake to set perfectly firm for slicing.
Step 7: Make the White Chocolate Ganache
Warm the half cup of heavy cream in the microwave until it’s just steaming hot. Pour this over the chopped white chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for two minutes. Stir until you have a smooth, glossy ganache, and allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over your chilled cheesecake.
Step 8: Decorate Your Cheesecake
Pour the white chocolate ganache over the top, smoothing it gently. Use the red decorating icing to create cheerful zigzag drizzles, then sprinkle green sanding sugar evenly across the surface. The colors pop beautifully, turning your cheesecake into a festive feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Step 9: Set the Topping
Return the cheesecake to the fridge for another 30 minutes. This lets the ganache and decorations firm up nicely, making your dessert ready to slice and serve with ease.
How to Serve Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch of holiday cheer, consider adding a few fresh cranberries or sprigs of mint alongside each slice. The bright red and green not only complement the existing decorations but also add a fresh burst of flavor and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or even a creamy eggnog. If you want to keep things light, a simple fruit salad with citrus notes can balance the richness of the dessert beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cheesecake on a platter decorated with pine needles or edible gold dust to bring the Christmas magic to your table. For a crowd, slice and place pieces on individual festive plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes for added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, keeping all those festive flavors locked in.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If your slices are too cold, simply let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to release the flavors and soften slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I use another type of Christmas cake instead of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes?
Absolutely! While the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes provide that iconic flavor and shape, you can swap in similar festive cakes or even brownies for a personalized twist.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake for 6 hours? Can I make it faster?
The chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to firm up properly and develop its best texture. If you’re short on time, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling yields the best results.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese and heavy cream, so it would need some substitutions such as plant-based cream cheese and whipping cream alternatives. Keep in mind this may change the texture and flavor somewhat.
What is the best way to cut neat slices of this cheesecake?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing to create clean, smooth cuts. Wiping the knife between slices helps keep edges tidy and prevents sticking.
Can I prepare this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe ahead of a big party?
Definitely! This cheesecake is a perfect make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two before your event to reduce stress and ensure you have a show-stopping treat ready to impress.
Final Thoughts
The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe is truly a joyful celebration on a plate, combining creamy cheesecake, festive cakes, and indulgent white chocolate ganache into one irresistible bite. If you want to wow friends and family this holiday season with a dessert that radiates warmth and holiday cheer, this cheesecake is your answer. Go ahead and treat yourself to making this delightful recipe—it’s worth every delicious moment!
