Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls

Introduction

Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls are the epitome of holiday indulgence. When I first made these delightful bites for a family gathering, I was met with enthusiastic approval from my kids and relatives alike. The combination of sweet vanilla cake, creamy cheese, and a rich candy coating creates a festive treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. Not only are these cake balls incredibly easy to make, but they also look gorgeous on any holiday dessert table. Every bite is like a little piece of Christmas cheer, and I can’t wait to share the joy with you!

Ingredients

• Two 5-count boxes of vanilla Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, crumbled
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 (16 oz) package white candy melts
• ¼ cup red candy melts, melted (optional)
• Red and green colored sanding sugar

Instructions

1. Crumble the Cakes: Start by crumbling the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes into a large mixing bowl. Make sure to break them down into fine crumbs for easier mixing.
2. Mix with Cream Cheese: Add the room temperature cream cheese to the crumbled cakes. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until fully combined into a dough-like consistency.
3. Form the Balls: Once the mixture is well combined, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Chill the Balls: Refrigerate the balls for 30 minutes to help them firm up. This step is essential for easier dipping later on.
5. Melt the Candy Coating: While the balls are chilling, melt the white candy melts according to the package instructions. Ensure that the candy is smooth and fully melted.
6. Dip the Cake Balls: Remove the chilled cake balls from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted white candy, making sure to coat it completely. Allow any excess candy to drip off before placing the coated ball back on the parchment paper.
7. Add Festive Touches: For an extra festive flair, drizzle melted red candy melts over the coated balls and sprinkle them with red and green sanding sugar.
8. Set and Serve: Allow the candy coating to set before serving. Once set, these Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls are ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a festive dessert at holiday parties and gatherings.
• Arrange on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.
• Pack individually in treat bags for gifts or party favors.
• Serve alongside a warm cup of cocoa or holiday punch.
• Include in a dessert table spread with other holiday sweets.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
2. Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step; it makes dipping much easier and prevents the balls from falling apart.
3. Colorful Coatings: Get creative with the candy melts! Use different colors to match your holiday theme.
4. Make Ahead: These cake balls can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for holiday prep.
5. Sanding Sugar Alternatives: Use edible glitter or sprinkles if you prefer a different decorative touch.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cake Balls: Substitute chocolate Little Debbie cakes for a chocolate version of these festive treats.
• Nutty Addition: Mix in finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Add a splash of almond or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
• Mini Cake Balls: Use mini-sized cake balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking.
• No Candy Coating: For a simpler version, skip the candy coating and roll the cake balls in crushed nuts or coconut instead.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at holiday cookie exchanges or potlucks for a festive treat.
• Pair with a selection of holiday desserts for a fun dessert buffet.
• Offer as a sweet surprise in kids’ lunchboxes during the holiday season.
• Use as a topping for ice cream sundaes for an extra treat.
• Give as homemade gifts in decorative boxes or jars.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: These cake balls freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months.
• Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw the cake balls in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other flavors of Little Debbie cakes?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors to create your unique cake balls.

1. How can I make these dairy-free?

• Use dairy-free cream cheese and ensure your candy melts are dairy-free.

1. What can I use instead of candy melts?

• You can use chocolate chips, but they may require a little extra shortening to melt smoothly.

1. How do I prevent the candy coating from cracking?

• Make sure the candy melts are thoroughly melted and smooth before dipping.

1. Can I add flavorings to the cream cheese mixture?

• Absolutely! A splash of vanilla or peppermint extract would be delightful.

1. What is the best way to store these cake balls?

• Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

1. Can I decorate them differently?

• Yes! Use different sprinkles or drizzles for a personalized touch.

1. How long do they take to set?

• The candy coating will set in about 30 minutes at room temperature.

1. Can I make them larger?

• Yes, you can adjust the size, but keep in mind that larger balls will require longer chilling and dipping times.

1. Are these suitable for children?

• Yes, they are kid-friendly and make a fun holiday treat for the whole family!

Conclusion

Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls are a fun and festive treat that perfectly encapsulate the joy of the holiday season. With their creamy texture and sweet flavors, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and customizable, these cake balls offer a delightful way to celebrate with friends and family. Whether you serve them at a holiday party or enjoy them at home, these treats are sure to spread cheer and create sweet memories. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make some holiday magic with these Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls!

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