Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles are the kind of holiday magic you didn’t know you needed—until you take your first bite. These truffles transform the iconic snack cake into a rich, festive dessert that practically begs to be shared. Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange or surprising your coworkers with seasonal treats, these no-bake goodies come together in no time and deliver big on nostalgia. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the sweet story behind this viral recipe, the must-know variations, decorating tips, storage hacks, and answer your most-asked questions along the way.
The Story Behind These Truffles
A Sweet Memory Worth Sharing
Every year around mid-November, my mom would stash boxes of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes in the pantry—hidden behind cereal, of course. She thought we didn’t notice, but my sister and I knew the drill. These cakes weren’t just snacks; they were signals. Christmas was close.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the Christmas Tree Cakes in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or hands to break them into fine crumbs.
- Add the softened cream cheese and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Scoop and roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- Melt the white chocolate or almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth.
- Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, let excess drip off, then place back on the tray.
- Top with sprinkles or drizzle with colored candy melts while still wet. Let set in fridge.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Last year, I stumbled across a trend turning those nostalgic cakes into bite-sized truffles. Curious, I crushed a few cakes, mixed in cream cheese, and dipped them in white chocolate. One taste and I was hooked. They instantly reminded me of our berry cheesecake salad, but with the creamy decadence of our no-bake chocolate eclair cake.
From that first batch, Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles became a tradition of their own. It’s hard to believe how such a simple recipe could turn into a family favorite overnight.
These truffles are no longer just a treat—they’re a centerpiece at our dessert table, nestled right next to our strawberry shortcake bites and blueberry cake donuts. Each bite brings back the joy of tree decorating, hot cocoa, and late-night Christmas movies.
And let’s face it: they’re a conversation starter at any gathering. Everyone wants to know how to make them. Good thing they’re incredibly easy to pull off—and totally irresistible.
Turning Cake into Gold
What Goes Into Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
The magic begins with the cake. Those nostalgic Little Debbie cakes already come layered with frosting and soft vanilla flavor. When crumbled and blended with a bit of cream cheese, they become a smooth, rollable filling.
You’ll need:
- 1 box of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (5 cakes)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 10 oz white chocolate or almond bark
- Optional: festive sprinkles or colored candy melts
That’s it. No oven. No fancy equipment. Just a mixing bowl and a little holiday spirit.
While some recipes use buttercream or frosting, cream cheese gives a tangy balance that prevents the truffles from being overly sweet—similar to our cinnamon blondies.
Pro tip: freeze the formed balls before dipping. It helps them keep their shape and prevents cracking in the chocolate shell.
Variations You’ll Love
If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to experiment. Luckily, these truffles are endlessly customizable:
- Chocolate Lovers: Try dark raspberry bars made from chocolate tree cakes dipped in semi-sweet chocolate.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a drop of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes before rolling.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a fruity kick—like in our strawberry crunch cheesecake.
You can even create a tray of truffles with assorted coatings: some in red candy melts, others in green, and a few topped with edible glitter for that berrylicious sparkle.
Whether you’re leaning into classic vanilla or going full gourmet, Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles always deliver on flavor—and flair.
Perfecting the Presentation
Dipping and Decorating Like a Pro
This is where you get to show off. Once your truffles are shaped and chilled, it’s time for the coating. Melt your white chocolate or almond bark slowly using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
Use a fork or dipping tool to coat each truffle, letting excess chocolate drip off. Place them on a parchment-lined tray, then decorate quickly while the coating is still soft.
We love to drizzle with red and green candy melts for a holiday vibe or top with crushed raspberry crumble for a pop of texture. A few gold sprinkles from the holiday aisle? Pure Christmas magic.
Want even more flair? Dip half in chocolate and half in white for contrast, like a cherry amaretto tiramisu twist.
Serving & Gifting Ideas
Once your truffles are set, the fun begins. Serve them on a platter alongside strawberry cream cake and pineapple cream dessert for a vibrant holiday spread. Or, place them in mini cupcake liners and box them up for a sweet homemade gift.
You can also stack them pyramid-style on a cake stand, alternating sprinkle colors for a tree-like effect. It’s the kind of visual that pairs perfectly with your summer peach mousse trifle and bavarian cream with fresh berries at the dessert table.
Don’t forget to snap a few photos—they’re totally Instagram-worthy. Tag them with #ChristmasTreeCakeTruffles and watch the likes roll in.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
How Long Do Little Debbie Truffles Last?
One of the best parts? These truffles last up to 5 days in the fridge. Just keep them in an airtight container. You can even freeze them for up to a month—ideal for planning ahead during the chaotic holiday season.
Unlike perishable cakes, these truffles stay firm and flavorful even after a few days. That makes them perfect for early baking, potlucks, or even Christmas Eve prep alongside your sweet cherry crumble bars.
Refrigerate them after dipping, especially if you used cream cheese. And always separate layers with parchment paper if stacking in containers.
Troubleshooting Tips
Having trouble with the chocolate shell cracking? Your truffles might be too cold when dipped. Let them sit out for a few minutes before coating. On the flip side, if they’re too soft, pop them back in the freezer for 10 minutes.
If your chocolate seizes up while melting, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil to bring it back to smooth. This trick also adds a glossy finish.
Don’t overmix your cake and cream cheese either. It should be soft but still hold shape—think strawberry lasagna texture, not frosting.
And if you’re running short on time, skip the dipping and roll them in powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a rustic twist.
Taking It Up a Notch
Kid-Friendly Decorating Parties
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles aren’t just fun to eat—they’re fun to make. Set up a decorating station for kids and let them roll, dip, and sprinkle to their heart’s content.
Offer toppings like mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, and festive nonpareils. Even toddlers can help, which is why this recipe is often included in our holiday cookie swaps.
Pair it with our no-bake eclair cake or berry cheesecake salad to create a full no-oven dessert spread.
Just be warned—this project might get messy. But it’s the good kind of messy: laughter, sticky fingers, and a kitchen that smells like sugar and joy.
Elevating for Grown-Up Gatherings
Hosting a holiday cocktail party? Add these truffles to a dessert charcuterie board. Surround them with chunks of lemon bliss cake, spiced nuts, and chocolate-dipped pretzels for a wow-worthy dessert bar.
You can also serve them with a glass of chilled Bailey’s or espresso martinis for a grown-up pairing that rivals any pineapple poke cake experience.
Want something ultra-refined? Drizzle your truffles with a liqueur-infused ganache. It’s a simple way to elevate an already magical treat.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles are endlessly adaptable—just like your favorite holiday memories.
Serving Up the Final Words
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles are more than just a dessert—they’re a new holiday tradition in the making. Easy to create, fun to decorate, and a total crowd-pleaser, they check every box for festive indulgence. Whether you’re gifting them, plating them, or sneaking one with your morning coffee, these truffles bring a little joy to every bite. Pair them with treats like strawberry crunch cheesecake or blueberry peach crumble, and you’ve got yourself a holiday table that’s both nostalgic and next-level.
Ready to start a new tradition? Grab a box of cakes and get rolling.
FAQ: All About Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
What are Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles made of?
They’re made with crumbled Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, blended with cream cheese, and dipped in melted chocolate or almond bark.
Can I make them ahead of time for a party?
Yes! They’re ideal for make-ahead prep. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer.
Do I need a mixer to make the filling?
Not at all. You can mix everything by hand or with a spoon until it’s soft and well combined—similar to cake pop consistency.
How do I prevent the coating from cracking?
Let the formed truffles sit out for a few minutes before dipping to prevent cold-to-hot shock, which causes cracking.
