Introduction
The holidays are always a great time for experimenting with festive desserts, and this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is a perfect choice for bringing some extra holiday cheer to your table. When I made this cheesecake, I was surprised by how beautifully it turned out and how much everyone loved it. The creamy, decadent filling paired with the graham cracker crust, and topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache, created a dessert that was both visually stunning and delicious. My family couldn’t stop talking about the festive touch added by the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and festive treat to add to your holiday dessert spread, this is it!
Why You’ll Love This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake
This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is a game-changer for holiday desserts. The unique combination of a creamy cheesecake filling, graham cracker crust, and Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes will remind you of everything you love about the holidays—sweet, indulgent, and festive! The cheesecake is rich and smooth, and the ganache topping is silky and perfect for drizzling over the cake. The green sprinkles and red buttercream frosting add that extra touch of holiday magic. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want to impress your family with a stunning dessert, this recipe will definitely wow your guests.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Filling:
- 3 packs cream cheese, softened (8 oz each)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 large eggs
- 7 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, chopped
Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup white chocolate
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Decoration:
- Green sprinkles
- Red buttercream frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Set aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until creamy. Add the sugar and flour, mixing until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream until incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming. Pour the hot cream over the white chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth, and let the ganache cool until thick but pourable.
- Assemble and Decorate: Remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Decorate with green sprinkles and pipe red buttercream frosting in festive patterns.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: 420 calories
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours minimum
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve chilled: This cheesecake is best served after it has been properly chilled and set, making it the perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time for holiday dinners.
- Slice into wedges: Cut into 12 slices for easy serving, or smaller portions if you prefer bite-sized pieces.
- Garnish with additional sprinkles: For extra holiday cheer, add more green sprinkles or drizzle additional ganache over the top before serving.
- Pair with coffee or holiday drinks: This cheesecake is delicious when paired with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a nice cup of coffee for a perfect end to a holiday meal.
Additional Tips
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture. Avoid light cream cheese, as it may affect the consistency of the filling.
- Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling—overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in the cheesecake during baking.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly: Allowing the cheesecake to cool inside the oven and then on a wire rack will help prevent cracks.
- Chill overnight: For the best texture and flavor, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.
- Customize the topping: While the white chocolate ganache is delicious, you can also top the cheesecake with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or even mini Christmas tree cakes for an extra festive touch.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of cake instead of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes? Yes, you can use other festive cakes or treats, but Little Debbie’s Christmas Tree Cakes give the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- How do I store leftovers? Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I freeze this cheesecake? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use half-and-half, but the consistency of the ganache might change slightly.
- Can I make this recipe in a different-sized pan? You can make this recipe in a larger or smaller pan, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust accordingly and check the cheesecake’s doneness by gently shaking the pan.
- How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake? Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or follow the cooling instructions carefully. Let it cool slowly in the oven to minimize cracks.
- What other flavors can I add to this cheesecake? You could add peppermint extract or cinnamon for a seasonal twist, or even crushed gingerbread cookies for a spiced flavor.
- Can I make this cheesecake without the ganache topping? Yes, you can omit the ganache, though it adds a lovely creamy finish. You could substitute it with whipped cream or a fruit topping if desired.
- How do I know when the cheesecake is done? The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Conclusion
This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Its creamy filling, festive flavors, and gorgeous decoration will wow your guests. Plus, the addition of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes provides a fun, nostalgic touch that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or bringing dessert to a friend’s holiday party, this cheesecake is sure to impress. With its combination of rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a must-try recipe for any holiday season!
PrintLittle Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake is the perfect holiday dessert to impress your family and guests. The creamy filling, graham cracker crust, and festive white chocolate ganache are made even more delicious with chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, giving this cheesecake a fun and festive twist!
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Filling:
- 3 packs cream cheese, softened (8 oz each)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 large eggs
- 7 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, chopped
Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup white chocolate
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Decoration:
- Green sprinkles
- Red buttercream frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Set aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until creamy. Add the sugar and flour, mixing until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream until incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming. Pour the hot cream over the white chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and let the ganache cool until thick but pourable.
- Assemble and Decorate: Remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Decorate with green sprinkles and pipe red buttercream frosting in festive patterns.
Notes
- For a smoother cheesecake filling, ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Refrigerating the cheesecake overnight helps it set properly and enhances its flavor.
- The ganache should be thick but pourable—if it becomes too thick, reheat it gently until it reaches the right consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg