The holidays are a time to indulge in festive treats that bring joy and nostalgia to every gathering. Imagine biting into a soft, moist cake, covered in a luscious green frosting, and decorated with a sprinkle of festive cheer. The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Recipe has become a beloved holiday classic, and now you can make it from scratch right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or just want to enjoy a treat that embodies the season, this recipe will help you recreate the magic of the store-bought version, with a homemade touch that’s even more delightful.
Making these homemade Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes is easier than you might think! The process is simple, and the result is a dessert that will spark joy in both kids and adults alike. The combination of fluffy cake, creamy frosting, and holiday-inspired decorations makes this treat the perfect addition to your festive table. Let’s dive into the steps for creating these show-stopping cakes!
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings25
minutes25
minutes230
kcalBring the festive flavors of Christmas into your home with this easy-to-make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Recipe. A delicious, nostalgic treat that replicates the beloved Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes. With a soft, moist cake base, creamy filling, and sweet icing, this dessert will be a hit at your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
1 box of cake mix (vanilla or white)
3 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk (for frosting)
Green food coloring
1/2 cup mini marshmallows (for decoration)
Red and white sprinkles (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Typically, you’ll need to combine the cake mix, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for about 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and green food coloring to achieve your desired color. If you want a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar. - Shape the cakes into Christmas tree shapes. Once the cakes are fully cooled, use a serrated knife to carefully trim the cakes into triangles or tree shapes.
- Frost the cakes with the green frosting, spreading it evenly over the surface of each cake.
- Decorate with mini marshmallows (for a “snowy” look), red and white sprinkles, or any festive decorations of your choice.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes!
Notes
- Cake Mix: You can use any brand of vanilla or white cake mix for this recipe.
- Green Coloring: Adjust the amount of green food coloring based on your desired color intensity.
- Decoration: Feel free to get creative with the decorations—use mini marshmallows for the “snow,” or add candy sprinkles for extra flair.
- Storage: Keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Tips for Perfect Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake
- Make Sure the Cake is Completely Cool: Allow your cakes to cool thoroughly before frosting them. If the cakes are warm, the frosting will melt off, leaving you with a messy, uneven finish.
- Customizing Your Decorations: While mini marshmallows work great for the snowy effect, feel free to get creative with your decorations! You can use candy canes, edible glitter, or chocolate chips for a personalized touch.
- Cake Shape Tips: If you’re not confident in cutting the cakes into perfect tree shapes, you can use a stencil or a template for more precise results. For an extra festive touch, you can also use cookie cutters to shape the trees.
- Frosting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker frosting, add a little more powdered sugar to the mixture. If the frosting is too thick, a few drops of milk can help you achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.
Recipe Variants:
- Chocolate Version: If you’re a fan of chocolate, replace the vanilla cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for a richer, decadent twist on this classic dessert.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all your frosting ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Mini Versions: For a bite-sized treat, use a mini cake pan or cupcake tin to create smaller versions of the Christmas tree cakes. These are perfect for parties or for portion control.
FAQ about Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake
Yes, you can use store-bought frosting if you’re in a time crunch. However, homemade frosting tends to have a fresher taste and a smoother texture.
These cakes are best enjoyed within 3 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Yes! You can freeze the cakes before decorating. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. Thaw before frosting and serving.
Internal Proposition: If you loved this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake recipe, you might also enjoy making Ginger Cookies Using Almond Flour—a festive treat that pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of holiday spiced cider.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
Health Benefits of the Recipe:
While this recipe is indulgent and not necessarily a health food, you can still enjoy it in moderation during the holiday season. Some of the ingredients offer a few potential benefits:
- Eggs: A good source of protein, essential amino acids, and vitamins like Vitamin B12.
- Milk: Provides calcium, Vitamin D, and protein, contributing to bone health.
- Sprinkles and Marshmallows: While they add sweetness and festive cheer, they are best enjoyed in moderation to balance out the indulgence.
However, remember that this is a treat, and like all desserts, it’s important to enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. It’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas and holiday gatherings when you’re looking for a delicious way to celebrate.
Making homemade Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes is the perfect way to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re baking with your family or surprising friends with this festive treat, these homemade cakes will surely bring smiles to everyone who tastes them. From their vibrant green frosting to the soft, fluffy cake inside, each bite captures the joy and magic of the season. Best of all, this recipe is simple and fun to make, allowing you to create something special without hours of prep time. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and create memories that will last far beyond the holidays.
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