Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake packs the magic of the classic snack cake into a festive, ultra-creamy dessert that steals the spotlight at every holiday gathering. The first time I brought this to my family’s Christmas Eve party, people could not believe how closely it echoed the nostalgic treat—right down to the sprinkles. Perfect for making memories and starting a new holiday tradition.

I first made this cheesecake to surprise my nieces who adore Little Debbie cakes. It instantly became a family request for every December celebration.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: provide a classic sweet base and crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. Choose crumbs that smell fresh and are golden in color
• Butter: helps the crust hold together and adds a rich flavor. Use real butter for best results
• Cream cheese: is the star for tangy richness and velvety smoothness. Softened blocks blend more easily and prevent lumps
• Granulated sugar: balances tang and sweetness in the filling
• All purpose flour: keeps the cheesecake from cracking and adds structure
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor. Go for pure vanilla extract if you can find it for a richer taste
• Heavy whipping cream: adds luxurious texture and prevents dryness. Check the expiration date and shake before using for freshness
• Eggs: create richness and help the cake set. Large eggs at room temperature mix in more smoothly
• Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: deliver nostalgic sweetness and a playful touch that makes this dessert stand out. Choose ones that are not crushed in the box for the prettiest results
• White chocolate: gives the ganache smooth, creamy sweetness with a hint of vanilla
• Green sprinkles: highlight that signature Christmas tree look. Use fresh sprinkles for color that pops
• Red buttercream frosting: is great for creating cheerful holiday designs. Store bought or homemade both work

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line a nine inch springform pan with parchment on the bottom. This makes removing the cheesecake much easier later.

Make the Crust:

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter using a fork until the mix looks like wet sand. Press the mixture in an even layer onto the bottom only of the springform pan using the bottom of a clean glass. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling.

Cream the Cheese:

In a large bowl using a mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium speed for several minutes. The mixture should look fluffy and free of lumps before you move to the next step.

Add Dry Ingredients and Sweetener:

Pour in granulated sugar and flour then mix at low speed just until combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling light.

Incorporate Flavorings and Cream:

Gently blend in the vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream until smooth and velvety.

Add Eggs:

Crack eggs in one at a time. Beat each just until you stop seeing streaks before adding the next. This step ensures a smooth and stable texture.

Fold in Cakes:

Chop five of the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes into small pieces about the size of a dime. Gently fold these into the cheesecake mixture so they are evenly distributed but do not break apart.

Fill and Bake:

Pour the filling onto the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake at three hundred twenty five degrees on the middle rack for about fifty to sixty minutes. The outside edges will be set and the center should still have a slight jiggle when nudged.

Cool Gradually:

Turn off the oven and prop the door open just a couple inches. Let the cheesecake slowly cool for one hour in the oven to prevent cracks.

Chill Completely:

Transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack and allow it to reach room temperature. Chill uncovered in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight for best results.

Prepare Ganache:

Heat one third cup heavy cream to just steaming in a saucepan. Pour it over chopped white chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for two minutes then stir until completely smooth and shiny.

Decorate and Serve:

Spread the white chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake. Use green sprinkles and piped red buttercream frosting to mimic the tree decorations. Place two whole Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes on top for a showstopping finish.

Save

My favorite part is folding in the Little Debbie cakes because it means each bite has those sweet nostalgic pockets of flavor. Last Christmas my niece Lily helped with the decorating and got so creative with the buttercream—now she insists on being my official helper every year.

Storage Tips

Keep your cheesecake tightly covered and refrigerate for up to five days. For the freshest texture avoid opening the fridge door frequently and remove decorations like sprinkles and cakes before freezing individual slices. Thaw in the fridge for several hours before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Switch out graham crackers for vanilla wafer crumbs or spiced Biscoff cookies for a twist. You can also use store brand snack cakes if you cannot find the Little Debbie version just make sure they have a cream filling and festive icing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve each slice with extra whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an elegant touch. Add hot cocoa and a few candy canes to each plate for a complete whimsical holiday dessert spread. This cheesecake always gets smiles when served with mugs of coffee after opening gifts.

Save

Cultural and Historical Context

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes have become an American holiday icon since their debut in the eighties. This cheesecake version celebrates that sense of nostalgia and joyful anticipation. Each slice reminds us that desserts are often the heart of family gatherings.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling?

Use cream cheese at room temperature and beat it until smooth before adding other ingredients.

→ Can I use a different type of cake for the filling?

Yes, similarly textured cakes can be chopped and folded in, but the flavor profile will differ from the original inspiration.

→ What is the best way to ensure the cheesecake doesn’t crack?

Bake at a moderate temperature and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

→ How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to develop a firm texture.

→ What is the purpose of the white chocolate ganache layer?

It adds a smooth, rich topping that complements the creamy filling and provides a glossy finish for decoration.