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Every holiday season someone asks me to bring the cheeriest dessert and nothing makes people light up like Little Debbie Christmas tree cake dip This over the top treat is a creamy dreamy way to remix that beloved snack cake into a shareable bowl perfect for parties cookie plates or just a little holiday indulgence after dinner
My family absolutely lost their minds the first time we tried this at a Christmas get together and it has become our non negotiable December tradition My kids especially love picking the dippers
Ingredients
- Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes vanilla: These give the dip its signature taste and fun sprinkle bits Choose the freshest box for best texture
- Cream cheese softened: Makes the dip ultra creamy and adds just a touch of tang Let it soften for super easy mixing
- Milk: Loosens the mixture for perfect scooping Any dairy or nondairy milk will work
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness and boosts the cake flavor Pure vanilla gives the loveliest aroma
- Frozen whipped cream topping thawed: Adds lightness and blends in beautifully Make sure it is fully thawed for a smooth dip
- Red and green sprinkles for garnish: These bring instant holiday cheer Pick a mix with different shapes or sparkles
- Cookies pretzels graham crackers for dipping: Grab your favorites or mix and match for every craving
Instructions
- Unwrap the Cakes:
- Remove all Christmas tree cakes from the packaging saving one whole cake to use for decoration later Set them on a cutting board
- Chop and Combine:
- Roughly chop up the unwrapped cakes into medium sized cubes for easier blending Place them into a large mixing bowl with the softened cream cheese milk and vanilla
- Mix Until Smooth:
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer beat the mixture on medium speed for about two to three minutes until the cakes are fully broken down and the mixture looks smooth and uniform Pause a couple times to scrape down the sides for the creamiest results
- Fold in Whipped Topping:
- Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the thawed whipped topping Mix until the dip is fluffy and no steaks remain You do not want to deflate all the air so use a light hand
- Chill the Dip:
- Transfer the finished dip to your favorite serving bowl Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to finish setting
- Garnish and Serve:
- Right before serving uncover the dip and scatter red and green sprinkles over the top Place the reserved cake on top or crumble for extra flair Set out an array of dippers like graham crackers cookies and pretzels and invite everyone to dig in
Graham crackers are my absolute favorite dipper with this treat because of the way the honey crunch highlights the vanilla cake Every year my nephew steals the bowl and we end up gathering around it for an impromptu snack feast with everyone laughing
Storage Tips
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days If making ahead prepare everything except the sprinkles and add those just before serving for best presentation If the dip firms up too much in the fridge just stir gently before serving to loosen
Ingredient Substitutions
Try chocolate Little Debbie cakes for a totally different flavor profile or swap in other holiday snack cakes Choose a dairy free cream cheese or a coconut whipped topping if serving those with dietary needs Almond or oat milk will give great results instead of dairy milk
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crisp gingerbread cookies chocolate grahams apple slices or vanilla wafers for creative pairing Offer small plates and spreaders so everyone can scoop their own or pipe into mini dessert cups as individual portions at larger gatherings
Cultural and Historical Context
This recipe captures the playful side of American holiday traditions with a nod to the iconic Little Debbie snack cakes which started delighting families in the sixties Today the Christmas tree version is a symbol of childhood celebrations and homemade fun
Seasonal Adaptations
Switch to pastel sprinkles and vanilla Little Debbie Easter cakes in the spring Decorate with patriotic sprinkles for a July barbecue using star shaped snack cakes Use pumpkin spice snack cakes and orange sprinkles for a tasty Halloween version
This dip is a fun twist on holiday nostalgia and takes very little time to prepare Make a bowl and watch it disappear
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep the dip smooth and creamy?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Whip the ingredients thoroughly and chop the snack cakes into small pieces prior to blending to avoid lumps.
- → What can I serve with this Christmas cake dip?
Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, pretzels, and fresh fruit slices are all excellent for dipping and add contrasting textures.
- → Can I make this dip in advance?
Yes, prepare it ahead and refrigerate in a covered container for up to a day. Stir before serving, then add sprinkles and enjoy.
- → Is it possible to use a different flavor of snack cake?
Absolutely! Chocolate tree cakes or other seasonal flavors offer tasty variations and can personalize the dip for your crowd.
- → How do I garnish the dessert for the best festive look?
Top the dip with colorful holiday sprinkles and reserved cake pieces just before serving for extra visual appeal.