There’s something unmistakably magical about the holidays, and this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake captures that joy in every creamy, festive bite. Imagine your favorite childhood snack — those iconic, sparkly tree cakes — transformed into an indulgent, no-bake cheesecake that wows both kids and adults. Each slice is an explosion of nostalgic vanilla cake, pillowy whipped cream, and tangy cheesecake with a crunchy graham cracker crust. Whether you’re the go-to dessert bringer for gatherings or hunting for the ultimate Christmas dessert, this showstopper brings the party to your table!

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a purpose, adding flavor, structure, or color — and together, they create a dessert that’s both familiar and extraordinary.

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: The star of the show! These festive cakes add flavor, nostalgia, and eye-popping decoration.
Crushed graham crackers: Essential for that golden, buttery crust with just the right hint of crunch.
Melted butter: Binds the crust and adds rich, creamy notes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and the cheesecake filling for perfect balance.
Cream cheese (softened): The creamy heart of your cheesecake — be sure it’s softened for ultra-smooth mixing.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and gives that homemade, bakery-quality warmth.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped for lightness that makes the filling almost cloudlike.
Unflavored gelatin (optional): Stabilizes the filling, especially helpful if you need it extra firm for slicing and serving.
Cold water: Only needed for blooming the gelatin — a simple step that makes a big textural difference.
Whipped cream and festive sprinkles: For garnish — because the holidays call for a little extra magic and sparkle.

How to Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust

Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to remove your finished cheesecake later. Then, mix the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl until the mixture has the consistency of damp sand. Press it into the bottom of the pan, making sure it’s even and firmly packed. Pop it in the fridge while you tackle the next step — this gives the crust time to set up so it holds together beautifully.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Take your time here — you want no lumps! Add the ½ cup sugar and vanilla extract, whipping everything together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. Every bite will taste of pure, dreamy cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip the Cream and Bloom the Gelatin (Optional)

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks — this gives the cheesecake its classic, airy loft. If you’re using gelatin for a firmer set, sprinkle it over 2 tablespoons cold water in a small microwave-safe bowl. Let it bloom for 5 minutes, then heat gently (either in the microwave or over simmering water) just until dissolved. Allow the gelatin to cool briefly, then mix it into the cream cheese batter.

Step 4: Fold and Assemble the Filling

Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, using a gentle hand to keep everything light and smooth. Next, chop up 6 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes into small pieces and fold them into your cheesecake filling, making sure those iconic red and green sparkles are evenly dotted throughout.

Step 5: Fill, Chill, and Decorate

Pour the luscious filling over your chilled crust and smooth out the top for that picture-perfect look. Now the hardest part: waiting. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or, ideally, overnight to set. Before serving, slice or arrange your remaining Christmas Tree Cakes across the top, swirl on some whipped cream, and finish with holiday sprinkles for a Christmas dessert that’s almost too pretty to eat.

How to Serve Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Garnishes

Dress this cheesecake up with a flourish of freshly whipped cream and festive sprinkles for maximum holiday cheer. For extra decadence, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or red and green candy melts makes every slice Instagram-worthy. Layer on extra sliced Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes as a crown — the nostalgic presentation makes everyone of all ages light up!

Side Dishes

For a dessert table to remember, pair slices with mugs of rich hot cocoa, spicy mulled wine, or a fresh cup of holiday coffee. Light citrus sorbet or fresh berries make a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake, and salty spiced nuts offer that perfect sweet-salty balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Try cutting the cheesecake into mini squares and nestling each on a small plate with a festive cake topper. Or create individual cheesecakes in mason jars or mini trifle glasses layering bits of the tree cakes, cheesecake filling, and crust. Arrange the whole cheesecake on a platter surrounded by candy canes and pine sprigs for a centerpiece no one will forget.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It keeps fresh and luscious for up to 4 days, so you can sneak a slice when the craving hits!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap slices (or the whole cheesecake) tightly in plastic and then in foil. Store in the freezer for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. Add whipped cream and garnishes after thawing so everything looks and tastes freshly made.

Reheating

No need to reheat — this treat is at its best served chilled! If your cheesecake is extra firm from freezing, just let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use any flavor of Little Debbie cakes?

Absolutely! While the original vanilla Christmas Tree Cakes create the classic look and flavor, feel free to swap in chocolate or any limited-edition flavor for a twist — just know the color and taste will change a bit.

Is gelatin absolutely necessary?

No, the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake will still set beautifully without gelatin, though it will be softer and custard-like. If you want perfectly neat slices, the optional gelatin helps stabilize the cake for easy serving.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

You can! Just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and make sure your cake choice is gluten-free as well. Some seasonal snack cakes may not be gluten-free, so read labels carefully.

How far in advance can I make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake?

This is a dream make-ahead dessert. Prepare it 1-2 days early, store covered in the fridge, and garnish just before serving. This gives the cake time to set and lets the flavors meld perfectly.

What’s the best way to cut neat slices?

For the cleanest slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice while the cheesecake is cold. Wipe the knife clean between cuts — every piece will look bakery-perfect!

Final Thoughts

If you love whimsy, nostalgia, and desserts that bring everyone together, you absolutely need to try Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake at your next holiday celebration. It’s as fun to make as it is to eat, sparking smiles and memories with every delicious slice. I can’t wait for you and your loved ones to dig in and make this a new festive favorite!

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (including chill time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with this delightful Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake. Creamy cheesecake filled with chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and topped with a whimsical array of decorations, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Crust:

12 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (original vanilla variety)
2 cups crushed graham crackers
6 tablespoons melted butter
3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 packet (1/4 oz) unflavored gelatin (optional for stability)
2 tablespoons cold water
Whipped cream and festive sprinkles for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan and chill.
Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mix until creamy. Whip heavy cream separately. Dissolve gelatin if using. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture.
Assemble: Fold chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes into the filling. Pour over crust and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
Decorate: Top with remaining Christmas Tree Cakes, whipped cream, and sprinkles before serving.

Notes

For extra flair, drizzle with melted white chocolate or colored candy melts.
If omitting gelatin, the cheesecake will still set but have a slightly softer texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American