Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Tia Maribel
Posted on December 21, 2025
December 17, 2025
by

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

The kitchen is warm and full of cheer. The smell of butter and white chocolate drifts through the house, and somewhere someone is humming a holiday song. A spoon clinks against a bowl and laughter rises like steam. Standing at the counter, I can almost feel my abuela’s hands guiding mine, showing me how to press a crust just right. This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is more than a dessert. It is a hug on a plate, a sparkly moment that brings mi familia together and makes the room feel like home. If you want a recipe that sings with color and sabor, stay with me and let’s make a memory.

Why This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Brings Joy to the Table

This cheesecake carries the bright, playful spirit of holiday treats and the quiet, cozy warmth of a family meal. The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes tucked into the batter are a childhood wink. They add surprise and nostalgia in every bite. When the white chocolate glaze melts and the green sprinkles shimmer, kids and grown-ups both smile.

For me, this recipe is a mix of two worlds: the fancy feel of a cheesecake and the simple fun of Little Debbie treats. It makes guests pause, then laugh, then take another bite. I serve it after big dinners, on slow Sundays, and at small get-togethers when we need a little fiesta in our cups and plates.

I like to share one small thing with you now. If you love playful holiday breads too, try this cheesy Christmas tree bread. It pairs well for a breakfast-after-party or for bringing a mix of salty and sweet to the table.

The Story Behind My Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

My recipe began one winter when the kids wanted something shiny and sweet, and I wanted something easy and made with cariño. I remember the night: the tree lights were soft, the radio played a bolero, and my sobrinos begged for a treat that looked like the tiny cakes they always begged for. I thought, why not put those little tree cakes inside a creamy cheesecake? It felt a little daring, but oh, it felt right.

We baked it together. Little hands helped press the crust. Someone sneaked a sprinkle. When we cut the first slice, the kids cheered like it was a cake made just for them. Now it is a small tradition. Each year, someone asks me to bring it. Someone else asks if they can decorate another. It has become an easy joy in our home.

I learned a few things in those first tries. Use room-temperature cream cheese so the batter mixes silky. Do not rush the cool-down; a slow finish keeps the crack-free top. And always, always have a napkin ready for little faces covered in frosting.

How to Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

“In my kitchen, every good recipe starts with laughter and a little music.”

Before we jump to the list, let me tell you what makes this cheesecake special. The crust bakes crisp and golden. The filling is smooth and rich with a touch of vanilla. The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes tuck inside and add a playful texture, a soft, cake-like surprise inside each slice. The white chocolate glaze makes a shiny, sweet blanket, and the green sprinkles and red buttercream bring the whole thing to life like a tiny holiday forest.

A note about ingredients and rhythm: gather everything before you start. Softened cream cheese, melted butter, and chilled heavy cream all play their parts. When you pace the steps, the kitchen fills with warm smells and calm, like a quiet fiesta.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 3 packs cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 eggs
  • 7 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes
  • 1 cup white chocolate
  • 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
  • Green Sprinkles
  • Red buttercream frosting

Tía’s tips for the list:

  • Use room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest batter. Cold cream cheese makes lumps and makes you fight the mixer.
  • If you do not have graham crackers, use a plain cookie like digestive biscuits. It will be just as sabroso.
  • Pick white chocolate of good quality. It melts clean and gives that shiny finish.
  • If you like a little tang, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter. It wakes up the cheese in a gentle way.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying generously with non-stick spray. Make sure the pan is tight and the base fits well. A secure pan keeps the crust neat.
  2. Pulse graham cracker cookies in a food processor until you get about 1 ½ cups of crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse until combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
  3. Pour into the bottom of the prepared pan and press to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown. When it smells toasty and warm, you know the crust is ready.
  4. In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment, cream the cream cheese on high speed until light and fluffy. Scrap the sides often so everything mixes evenly.
  5. Add the granulated sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined and smooth. Do not overmix once the flour is in; you want a silky batter, not a dense one.
  6. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the heavy whipping cream and mix on low speed until combined. Increase speed to high for about 1 minute. This step gives the filling a creamy lift.
  7. Add the eggs in last, one at a time, incorporating after each addition. Mix gently until each egg disappears into the batter. Overbeating after eggs can add too much air.
  8. Pour half of the batter over the prepared crust and use an offset spatula to smooth. The scoop will look glossy and soft like a cloud.
  9. Arrange the cakes over the batter in a circle and gently press them into the batter. Cover the cakes with the remaining cheesecake batter and smooth. The cakes will sink a little but that is perfect.
  10. Bake on 350 degrees for 15 minutes, then without opening the oven door, reduce the heat to 200 degrees and bake for an additional 50-53 minutes. (50 minutes was perfect for me). Bake until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. The slow finish keeps the texture creamy.
  11. Turn the oven off and crack the oven door and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for about 15 minutes. This gentle change in temperature helps prevent cracks.
  12. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Patience here rewards you with a smooth top and a neat slice.
  13. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and allow to set overnight to set completely. The flavors marry overnight and the texture firms up beautifully.
  14. Once the cheesecake is set, add 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream into a microwave safe bowl and heat on 30 second increments until hot but not boiling. The cream should steam but not bubble.
  15. Pour over the white chocolate and let set for about 3 minutes. Whisk until smooth. You should have a glossy, pourable glaze.
  16. Pour over the top of the cheesecake and smooth. Sprinkle with green sprinkles and create lines over the top using red buttercream (I like to use the store-bought tubes for such a small amount). The colors make the cake sing.
  17. Serve immediately or keep stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. When it starts to smell like home, you are almost there. Share and enjoy with a warm heart.

How to Serve Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake for Family and Friends

Serve this cheesecake on a plain white plate so the colors pop. Place it in the center of the table where everyone can admire it. Add a few fresh berries on the side if you like a tart contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar around the plate looks like a dusting of snow.

I love serving slices with small forks and a cup of coffee. For the kids, a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into a little party. At holiday dinners, place small sprigs of rosemary near the slices. They look like tiny pine branches and smell lovely. The green sprinkles and red lines make the cake feel like a tiny forest at Christmas.

This cake is perfect for family celebrations: after a slow Sunday lunch, for a backyard party, or as dessert for weeknight dinners when you want to make something special. The laughter that follows the first bite is the best part.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Keeping Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Fresh for Later

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays best for 3 to 5 days. If you wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a sealed container, the top glaze will stay nice and glossy.

To freeze, cut the cheesecake into slices and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the slices in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Do not microwave thaw slowly so the texture stays creamy.

If the glaze loses a bit of shine after refrigeration, let the slice sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. The flavors wake up quickly, and it often tastes even better the next day, like most family stories that grow sweeter with time.

Tía Maribel’s Flavor Secrets

  • Room Temperature Matters: Always bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature. They combine smoother and you get a silkier texture without lumps.
  • The Gentle Finish: The low-heat bake at the end and the slow cool down are my little tricks. They help avoid cracks and keep the center creamy.
  • White Chocolate Care: Heat the cream until steaming and pour over the chopped white chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes before whisking. This keeps the chocolate smooth and glossy.
  • Little Debbie Placement: When you place the Christmas Tree Cakes in the batter, press gently so they do not break. Let them be a soft surprise in each bite.
  • Fresh vs. Packaged: If you want a fresher flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter. It brightens the whole cake without stealing the show.

Make It Your Own Fun Twists on Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Try a peppermint twist by folding crushed candy canes into the white chocolate glaze. It adds a fresh, crisp note that kids love.

If you prefer a less sweet finish, swap some of the white chocolate for a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache. The contrast of dark and sweet makes each bite deeper.

For a tropical turn, fold a tablespoon of shredded coconut into the crust and top slices with toasted coconut. It gives a warm, toasty flavor that mixes well with the soft cake inside.

You can also try a mini version. Make the crust and batter into muffin tins and press half a Little Debbie tree cake into each one. They bake faster and are perfect for a party where everyone wants a small piece.

If you are curious how this playful format looks in other baked goods, here is another fun idea to try: cheesy Christmas tree bread. It brings the same festive feeling but in a savory way.

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

This festive cheesecake blends the creamy texture of cheesecake with the nostalgic charm of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, making it a perfect holiday dessert that delights both kids and adults.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs Use plain cookies like digestive biscuits if unavailable.
  • 6 tablespoons butter (melted) Ensure it is melted for mixing.
Cheesecake Filling
  • 3 packs cream cheese (softened) Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream Use chilled.
  • 7 pieces Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes Placed gently into the batter.
Topping
  • 1 cup white chocolate Use high-quality chocolate for best results.
  • cup heavy whipping cream For the glaze.
  • Green Sprinkles For decoration.
  • Red buttercream frosting For decoration.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying generously with non-stick spray.
  2. Pulse graham cracker cookies in a food processor until you get about 1 ½ cups of crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse until combined.
  3. Pour into the bottom of the prepared pan and press to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes.
  4. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the cream cheese on high speed until light and fluffy.
  5. Add the granulated sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined and smooth.
  6. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl. Add the heavy whipping cream and mix on low speed until combined. Increase speed to high for about 1 minute.
  7. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating after each addition.
Baking
  1. Pour half of the batter over the crust and smooth. Arrange the cakes over the batter and gently press them in.
  2. Cover with the remaining batter and smooth. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 200°F and bake for an additional 50-53 minutes.
  3. Turn off the oven and crack the door. Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for about 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
  5. Refrigerate overnight to set.
Glazing
  1. Heat ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Pour over white chocolate and let sit for 3 minutes.
  2. Whisk until smooth and pour over the top of the cheesecake. Decorate with green sprinkles and red buttercream.
Serving
  1. Serve on a plain white plate with optional fresh berries, powdered sugar, and enjoy with family.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 5gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gSodium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 23g

Notes

Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Freeze in slices if needed. The flavors often improve the next day.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

FAQs About Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely, mija! Make it the day before and let it chill overnight. The flavors settle and the texture becomes wonderfully creamy. Pack it tight and serve the next day with love.

What if I do not have a stand mixer?

No problem. Use a hand mixer or beat by hand with a whisk. It takes a little longer and a bit more elbow grease, but the result is the same. Keep the pace steady and do not overbeat after you add the eggs.

Can I use a different Little Debbie cake?

Of course. Use the small cake you like best. The idea is the soft, cake surprise inside the cheesecake. Each variety gives a new twist and a new smile.

Why did my cheesecake crack on top?

Cracks usually come from too much air in the batter or a fast temperature change. Mix gently, bake with the low-heat finish, and cool slowly with the oven door cracked. That keeps the top calm and pretty.

How do I keep the white chocolate glaze from seizing?

Heat the cream until it is steaming but not boiling. Pour it over finely chopped white chocolate and let it sit for three minutes. Then whisk gently until smooth. If it thickens too much, warm it over a double boiler for a few seconds while stirring.

Final Note From Tía Maribel

I hope this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake fills your home with the same joy it brings mine. I picture you in your kitchen, music playing low, family around the table, forks in hands and eyes smiling. This dessert is about warmth, color, and the small moments that make a meal unforgettable. Make it with cariño, pass it on, and laugh when someone sneaks an extra slice. ¡Buen provecho and mucho amor from my kitchen to yours!

Conclusion

For more variations and the original idea that inspired many of us, see this version on Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake – Cookie Dough and Oven Mitt. If you want another guide with helpful photos and step ideas, check this recipe at Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake – My Incredible Recipes. For a look at the official product and serving inspiration, visit Little Debbie® Christmas Tree Cakes® Cheesecake.

Author

  • Tía Maribel, co-author at Feel the Recipes, smiling in her vibrant kitchen while preparing fresh guacamole in a traditional molcajete.

    I’m Maribel from Veracruz. I share bold Latin flavors and festive recipes that celebrate family and tradition. For me, cooking is pure joy and I want you to feel that warmth in every dish you make.

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