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This nostalgic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes Dip is pure holiday fun and comes together in a flash for any party or family night. The soft cakes create a creamy base while whipped topping and cream cheese make it extra luscious.
I bring this to cookie swaps and it always disappears in minutes. My first time making this was for a neighborhood holiday party and everyone kept coming back for more. Now it is a nonnegotiable December tradition.
Ingredients
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes: These seasonal treats are the star Use fresh ones with a soft crumb for best texture
- Cream cheese: Adds rich tang and silkiness Opt for full-fat and let it fully soften
- Milk: Helps loosen the mixture Whole or two percent work best
- Vanilla extract: Warmth and classic flavor Go for pure vanilla for richer taste
- Whipped topping: Brings the signature cloudlike texture Thaw fully for easy folding
- Christmas sprinkles: Adds eye-catching color and fun Look for vibrant mixes that will not bleed
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: These will ensure a creamy base without effort
- Rubber spatula: Helps gently fold in the whipped topping and keeps everything fluffy
Instructions
- Remove the Wrapping:
- Begin by unwrapping seven of the Christmas Tree Cakes and set them aside The eighth cake is saved for garnish
- Combine the Base:
- In a large mixing bowl break up seven cakes then add softened cream cheese milk and vanilla extract This ensures the dip will be sweet and smooth
- Mix Until Creamy:
- Use a hand mixer stand mixer or food processor Mix on medium speed until the mixture is nice and smooth with no lumps from the cake or cream cheese This might take a couple minutes and you can stop to scrape the bowl as needed
- Fold in the Whipped Topping:
- Gently add thawed whipped topping to the bowl Using a rubber spatula fold the topping into the cake mixture Take your time and avoid stirring too quickly This keeps the dip light and airy
- Chill the Dip:
- Scoop the mixture into your serving bowl Cover tightly and refrigerate at least 30 minutes This lets the flavors meld and the dip thicken slightly
- Decorate and Serve:
- Once ready to serve uncover and sprinkle generously with Christmas sprinkles Carefully unwrap the eighth cake and place it in the center as a festive garnish Serve with cookies graham crackers or fresh fruit
The Christmas Tree Cakes are my favorite part because they give the dip that unmistakable nostalgic flavor I used to trade snacks with my siblings and these were always in demand during December.
Storage tips
Store the dip in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Stir gently before serving. Do not freeze as thawing will change the texture.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find the Christmas Tree Cakes plain store bought snack cakes with holiday sprinkles can be swapped. Homemade stabilized whipped cream works well in place of store bought topping. A splash of almond extract can be fun instead of vanilla for a slightly different twist.
Serving suggestions
This dip is perfect with vanilla wafers pretzels shortbread cookies or green apple slices. Set up a spread with dippers in different shapes for a party. Try piping the dip into mini tart shells for bite sized treats.
Cultural and historical context
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes have been a holiday staple in the US for decades Originally launched in the late 1980s they quickly became a nostalgic symbol of seasonal celebration Many of us grew up with snack cakes in our lunchbox but the tree shape instantly made winter feel special.
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out Christmas Tree Cakes for other seasonal snack cakes. Go for rainbow sprinkles and pastel toppings for a spring version. Add a drop of peppermint extract to make a peppermint version.
Success Stories
A neighbor once asked for this recipe after her kids scraped the bowl clean I now make double batches for our cookie exchanges because everyone wants a taste of their childhood I love seeing how a simple treat can make everyone so happy.
Freezer Meal Conversion
This recipe is best fresh The whipped topping does not freeze and thaw well If you want to make ahead do the mixing the day before and add sprinkles fresh at serving time.
This dip is festive and nostalgic with every bite. Serve it at any holiday gathering and watch it disappear fast!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other snack cakes if Christmas Tree Cakes are unavailable?
Yes, you can substitute with similar snack cakes like Zebra Cakes or Birthday Cakes for a similar flavor and texture.
- → What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Leave cream cheese at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes, or microwave on low for 10-15 seconds until softened.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this dip?
You can prepare the dip up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve, then garnish just before serving.
- → What are some dipping options?
Try serving with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, pretzels, apple slices, or strawberries for a tasty combination.
- → How do I prevent color bleeding from the sprinkles?
Add the sprinkles just before serving and fold them in gently to help maintain festive colors without bleeding.