The holiday season is all about indulgence, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. When it comes to holiday desserts, few are as nostalgic and fun as the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake. Inspired by the classic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, this cheesecake version adds a creamy, decadent twist to the familiar treat. The cheesecake features a buttery, graham cracker crust, a rich and smooth cream cheese filling, and a festive layer of green icing that mimics the look of the iconic Little Debbie treat. It’s decorated with colorful sprinkles and a final touch of edible glitter, making it the perfect showstopper for any holiday party or family gathering. This dessert combines the best elements of a classic cheesecake with the fun, whimsical spirit of the season, offering a delicious way to celebrate Christmas in style. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dessert is sure to delight guests of all ages.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream

For the decoration:

1/2 cup green candy melts or white chocolate with green food coloring
1/4 cup red and green sprinkles
Edible glitter (optional)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips or candy decorations for topping

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until everything is evenly mixed and the crumbs are well coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it is packed tightly. Use the back of a spoon to ensure the crust is even and firm. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. Once everything is well combined, add the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until the filling is smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Bake the cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. You can check the cheesecake by gently shaking the pan – if the edges are set and the center is only slightly wobbly, it’s ready. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually. Afterward, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 4: Decorate the cheesecake
Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, it’s time to decorate. Melt the green candy melts or white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between, until completely smooth. Carefully spread the melted green chocolate over the top of the cheesecake, using a spatula to create a smooth, even layer. If you want a textured, tree-like effect, you can create little swirls or peaks in the chocolate. Sprinkle the red and green sprinkles over the top of the cheesecake for a festive touch. For a bit of sparkle, lightly dust the cheesecake with edible glitter. Finish off the decoration by adding mini chocolate chips or other candy decorations to create the “ornaments” on the tree.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once the decoration is complete, slice the cheesecake into wedges, making sure to serve each slice with a generous amount of the festive green topping. The creamy, tangy cheesecake paired with the crunchy crust and festive decorations makes each bite a delightful holiday treat.

Variation

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.
Chocolate Cheesecake: Add melted chocolate to the cheesecake batter for a richer flavor, or use chocolate candy melts for the tree topping.
Vegan Version: Substitute the cream cheese and sour cream for vegan alternatives, and use a dairy-free crust.

Cooking Notes

For a smoother cheesecake, make sure to beat the cream cheese thoroughly before adding the sugar. Overmixing the eggs can cause cracks in the cheesecake, so mix gently once the eggs are added. It’s crucial to let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven and refrigerate it long enough to set before decorating. This will help prevent the cheesecake from cracking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake with a cup of hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or your favorite holiday beverage. It’s the perfect dessert to bring to a holiday party, Christmas dinner, or New Year’s celebration. You can also pair it with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a nice balance of flavors.

Tips

To make cutting the cheesecake easier, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping it clean between cuts. This will help you achieve clean, even slices without disturbing the decorations. If you have any leftovers, store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months if you want to enjoy it later.

Prep Time:

25 minutes

Cooking Time:

50-60 minutes

Total Time:

5 hours (including cooling and chilling time)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cheesecake a day ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake is actually better if made a day ahead, as it allows the flavors to fully develop. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Q: Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the graham cracker crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the cheesecake.

Q: Can I decorate the cheesecake with something other than sprinkles?
Absolutely! You can use any holiday-themed decorations like crushed candy canes, mini marshmallows, or even small gingerbread cookies for a more personalized touch.

Q: Can I freeze the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q: Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for making cheesecake, as it allows for easy removal without damaging the edges. However, you can use a regular round cake pan if you prefer, but be sure to line it with parchment paper to make removing the cheesecake easier.

Conclusion

The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is a perfect blend of nostalgia, fun, and delicious flavor. This festive dessert captures the essence of the beloved Christmas Tree Cakes, transforming them into a creamy, indulgent cheesecake that is perfect for any holiday gathering. With its buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and festive decorations, this cheesecake will not only impress your guests but also provide a memorable holiday treat. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, attending a holiday party, or simply looking for something special to make this holiday season, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit. Make it ahead, chill it well, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make this dessert a holiday classic in the making.