Save
Christmas baking just is not complete in my house without the aroma of sweet cake and melted chocolate wafting through the kitchen. This recipe for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles takes those beloved snack cakes and gives them a playful and festive holiday spin that never fails to make everyone smile. Imagine soft truffles decked out in white chocolate with cheerful drizzles and sprinkles—every bite is a little celebration. Perfect for sharing or gifting, this is a treat even novice bakers will love creating.
I still remember the first time I brought these to a holiday cookie swap—everyone wanted the recipe and not a single one was left by the end of the afternoon. They have quickly become a must for my family’s dessert table every December.
Ingredients
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: 5 cakes These are essential for the signature flavor and fun shape when sliced and rolled Make sure to buy fresh so they stay soft
- White chocolate or candy melts: 8 ounces Choose high quality chocolate for a smoother coating Look for a creamy consistency once melted
- Festive sprinkles: 3 tablespoons Adds the holiday cheer Go for bold color and crunch
- Red candy melts: 3 tablespoons for drizzling optional This gives that finishing touch and extra color Choose ones that melt smoothly for easy drizzling
- Green sanding sugar: Just a pinch creates that signature Christmas sparkle Use fresh so it sticks well to the coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Base:
- Unwrap the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes one by one Place them in a large mixing bowl making sure to break up any sticking icing for easy mixing
- Mix into Dough:
- Use a handheld mixer on low to crumble the cakes into a dough The mixture should be moist and soft not dry Gently fold festive sprinkles in with a spatula Avoid overmixing to maintain texture
- Form the Truffles:
- Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon for even sizes Roll each portion smoothly between your palms until round Place each truffle on a parchment lined baking sheet Continue until all dough is shaped
- Melt the White Chocolate:
- Place white chocolate or candy melts into a microwave safe bowl Heat in 30 second bursts stirring thoroughly in between Continue until just melted and glossy so the mixture does not seize Alternatively use a double boiler for more control
- Dip the Truffles:
- Take each rolled ball with a fork or dipping tool and submerge it into the melted chocolate Coat all sides evenly Tap off excess then transfer back to tray so there are no puddles beneath Let them set slightly before decorating
- Decorate the Truffles:
- Melt the red candy melts inside a ziptop bag or piping bag using short microwave bursts Massage the bag frequently to melt completely Cut a small tip off and drizzle over each truffle Sprinkle green sanding sugar immediately to make sure it adheres Let everything chill in the fridge until set and shiny
My favorite part is always picking out the brightest sprinkles with my kids—it turns decorating into a festive memory. When we first made these together the kitchen was a happy mess of sugar and laughter and now it is a tradition I look forward to all season.
Storage Tips
Once set move the truffles to an airtight container and refrigerate They keep fresh this way for about a week Lay parchment between layers so they do not stick together If you are sending these as gifts pack them tightly and add a freezer pack for travel
Ingredient Substitutions
No Christmas Tree Cakes on hand Try any similar snack cake with cream filling Vanilla or yellow cake varieties work best Instead of white chocolate try milk or dark chocolate melts if that is your style and use any holiday sprinkle combination you love
Serving Suggestions
These truffles always shine on a dessert board lined up with cookies fudge and peppermint bark For parties arrange them in mini cupcake liners for a tidy grab and go treat They make a charming edible gift stacked in holiday tins with tissue
Cultural and Holiday Connection
Little Debbie cakes have been a classic treat for generations and during Christmas these cakes get a whimsical tree shape perfect for traditions like classroom parties or family exchanges Making truffles from them is a creative new way to share nostalgia with a modern twist
Seasonal Adaptations
Use orange and black sprinkles for a Halloween party Swap in heart shaped cakes and red pink sprinkles for Valentine’s Day Choose pastel sugar and candy melts for Easter celebrations
Success Stories
Over the years I have seen these truffles pop up at potlucks school events and on neighbors’ porches during the holidays Friends always reach out for the easy recipe and send me photos of their own decorated creations—it is so much fun to see everyone add their personality
Freezer Meal Conversion
These truffles do freeze quite well Place on a tray until hard then drop into a ziptop freezer bag or container Freeze for up to one month To serve thaw them overnight in the fridge and they will taste just as fresh as the day you made them
I find these are a hit for cookie swaps or anytime you want that store bought meets homemade magic It is a sweet tradition that brings the whole family together in the kitchen
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Use white chocolate or candy melts for a smooth, sweet coating. Candy melts set quickly and provide a glossy finish.
- → Can I substitute the festive sprinkles?
Yes, use any holiday-themed or colorful sprinkles to match your celebration or personal taste.
- → How long do the truffles need to chill?
Chill truffles for at least 15 minutes after dipping to allow the coating to set firmly.
- → Is it possible to freeze the finished truffles?
Yes, store finished truffles in an airtight container and freeze up to one month. Thaw before serving.
- → How do I achieve a smooth red drizzle?
Ensure red candy melts are fully melted and snip a tiny piping bag edge for a fine, even drizzle.
- → Can this be made with other snack cakes?
Absolutely! Substitute with similar snack cakes for varied flavors and festive looks.