Name: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies: Festive Joy Awaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 0.5 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon baking powder (acts as a leavening agent); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (can swap with almond extract); 1 tablespoon red food gel (for decorative stripes); 0.5 cup green sugar sprinkles (adds festive texture); 2 cups confectioner’s sugar (provides sweetness); 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream (adjust for consistency)

As the twinkling lights begin to adorn the streets and the scent of pine fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the promise of holiday baking to spark joy and nostalgia. Enter these delightful Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies—my festive homage to that childhood classic. With a soft sugar cookie base hugging a luscious vanilla buttercream, each cookie is whimsically decorated with vibrant red stripes and cheerful green sprinkles, transforming your holiday gatherings into a joyful celebration of flavors. Not only are they a heartfelt treat that captures the essence of the season, but they also boast a surprisingly easy prep time that will have you back to enjoying that cozy holiday spirit in no time. Ready to bring a little magic to your holiday table? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistibly Festive: These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies bring a merry atmosphere to any holiday gathering, capturing the essence of the season in every bite.
Childhood Nostalgia: If you grew up loving those iconic treats, this replica will evoke fond memories and create new ones with loved ones.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up without stress—perfect for spontaneous holiday baking!
Versatile Decoration: Add your own flair with variations in colors or sprinkles. You can even explore playful shapes or fillings for a delightful twist.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday drink for a truly warming festive experience. If you’re looking for more holiday cookie inspiration, check out these Oreo Cheesecake Cookies or Twix Cookies Chewy!

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; ensures even mixing for the best taste.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a soft texture.
• Butter (unsalted) – Adds richness and moisture; using room temperature ensures a smooth mix.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and helps create crisp cookie edges.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; room temperature is ideal.
• Vanilla Extract – Flavoring component that can be swapped with almond extract for a unique twist.

For Decorating
• Red Food Gel – A coloring agent for those eye-catching decorative stripes.
• Green Sugar Sprinkles – Adds vibrant color and festive texture for a holiday look.

For the Buttercream Filling
• Confectioner’s Sugar – Forms the base of the buttercream; provides necessary sweetness.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a creamy texture; adjust to achieve your desired buttercream consistency.

These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday festivities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to thoroughly combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients. Once a soft dough forms, cover it tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Step 2: Cut and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to create full circles and a smaller tree-shaped cutter for the halves. Place the shapes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have a little space between them. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden while the centers remain soft. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Buttercream
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and confectioner’s sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream, mixing until you achieve your desired buttercream consistency, which should be fluffy and spreadable. If you want a pop of color, divide the buttercream and mix in some red food gel into one bowl to create the festive frosting for the cookies.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Take one of the full cookie rounds and pipe or spread a generous layer of the white buttercream onto it. Next, add your red stripes by carefully piping the colored buttercream across the top. Sprinkle vibrant green sugar sprinkles generously over the frosted cookie. Carefully place a cookie with a tree cutout on top of the frosted base to create a delightful sandwich effect, showcasing the beautiful decorations.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Once all the cookies are assembled, place them on a decorative platter to enhance their festive appearance. It’s best to decorate the cookies just before serving, allowing the buttercream to set slightly while keeping the sprinkles vibrant. These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a lovely holiday treat.

Storage Tips for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: These cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to maintain their softness.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking, and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: For a fresh-baked taste, reheat in the microwave for 5-10 seconds. This is especially delicious if paired with the additional buttercream!

What to Serve with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies

The holiday spirit calls for delightful pairings that enhance the festive joy these cookies bring to your table.

Cozy Hot Cocoa: A rich, chocolatey drink that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting and nostalgic experience.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This decadently smooth treat balances the soft cookie texture with a cool element, making it an indulgent pairing.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices from the cider enhance the cookies’ flavors while providing a seasonal drink that warms the soul.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich buttercream, elevating each bite.
Peppermint Mocha: This seasonal favorite brings a minty twist that pairs beautifully with the cookies, perfect for a holiday gathering.
Sugar Cookie Bars: For those who can’t get enough of that classic sugar cookie flavor, these bars resonate with the cookies while adding a different texture.
Chocolate Milk: Rich and creamy, this classic beverage will evoke childhood memories and is a hit with both kids and adults alike, enhancing the overall experience.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and fruity contrast to the indulgent sweetness of the cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more festive moments with less stress! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its fresh flavor. The baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep their delightful texture, avoid decorating until just before serving, as the buttercream can soften the cookies if left too long. When you’re ready to indulge, simply assemble the cookies and enjoy restaurant-quality treats right at home!

Expert Tips for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like butter and eggs at room temperature improves the dough’s texture, making it smoother and easier to work with.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours helps prevent sticking and ensures your cookies hold their shape while baking.
Even Thickness: Rolling the dough to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness is essential for even baking, resulting in soft centers and slightly crisp edges.
Cake Decorators Know Best: Decorating the cookies right before serving keeps the sprinkles vibrant and prevents them from getting soggy from the buttercream.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake; removing them from the oven when the edges turn golden will ensure a soft, chewy center reminiscent of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies.

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Variations

Get ready to sprinkle some creativity into your baking with delightful twists on these festive cookies that will wow your loved ones!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a rich chocolate base that complements the vanilla buttercream beautifully.
Peppermint Twist: Incorporate peppermint extract into the buttercream for a refreshing holiday flavor that sings “Christmas!” in every bite.
Fruity Variation: Fold in some crushed freeze-dried strawberries into the buttercream for a fruity surprise that brightens up the traditional taste.
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and a delightful crunch in each cookie.
Decorative Shapes: Use different cookie cutters to create fun shapes like stars and hearts, perfect for various occasions beyond the holidays.
Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the edges of the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking to introduce a cozy, warm spice note that perks up the cookies.
Custom Sprinkles: Personalize the sprinkling by swapping out traditional colors with your favorites, whether it’s pastel for spring, brights for birthdays, or even themed colors for parties.

Explore these variations to make your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies truly one-of-a-kind and an absolute hit! If you love baking themed cookies, you might also enjoy whipping up these Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies or Panko Cookies Chewy for even more festive fun!

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
For the best results, I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the perfect structure for these cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend can be a great substitute.

How should I store the cookies after baking?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To maintain their freshness, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. To do this, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container, ensuring they don’t stick together. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky and hard to manage, don’t worry! Just chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll and cut into shapes.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these cookies away from pets, especially if they contain added sugar and butter, which aren’t ideal for their diets. Always prioritize your furry friend’s health over sharing human treats.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the buttercream filling?
Certainly! If you prefer a less sweet buttercream, you can reduce the amount of confectioner’s sugar used. I suggest starting with about 1 cup instead of the usual amount and gradually adding more to achieve the desired sweetness. Plus, if you’re looking for a unique flavor, consider mixing in a splash of almond extract for a delightful twist!