When the holiday season rolls around, few desserts spark as much excitement as Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls. These bite-sized, no-bake treats combine the nostalgic flavor of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes with the convenience of an easy holiday recipe. Perfect for family gatherings, classroom parties, or just a sweet indulgence on a cozy night in, these cake balls bring holiday cheer in every bite. Don’t miss our Christmas Apple Cranberry Spritzer if you’re looking for the perfect drink pairing.
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Why Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls Are a Holiday Favorite
The magic of these cake balls lies in their simplicity. Instead of baking from scratch, you transform pre-made snack cakes into a festive dessert that looks as good as it tastes. This shortcut doesn’t just save time—it preserves the iconic vanilla sponge and creamy filling that fans love. Add candy coating and sprinkles, and suddenly, you have a dessert tray that looks bakery-quality without the stress.
Another reason for their popularity is their versatility. You can serve them at holiday parties, package them as gifts, or even make them a fun activity for kids. Just like our Easy Halloween Snack Mix, these cake balls prove that the best festive recipes don’t have to be complicated.
For many, the nostalgia factor makes them irresistible. The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes have been a holiday staple for decades. Turning them into cake balls gives this classic snack a creative twist while preserving its seasonal charm. Looking for inspiration? Try Apple Cake Pops if you want another fun dessert on a stick.
Ingredients You Need for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls
The beauty of this recipe is how few ingredients you’ll need. These cake balls are budget-friendly, simple, and flexible enough to adapt to your own taste. Here’s a list of what you’ll want to gather before starting:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes | 1 box (5 cakes) | Use vanilla or chocolate |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz (softened) | Helps bind the mixture |
| White Candy Coating or Almond Bark | 12 oz | For dipping |
| Holiday Sprinkles | As needed | Red, green, or gold for a festive touch |
Optional Add-ins: peppermint extract, crushed candy canes, or mini chocolate chips. For a lighter option, swap cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese or mascarpone. If you’re on a gluten-free diet, you can try similar snack cakes made with gluten-free ingredients.
Discover great ideas like our Christmas Tree Deviled Eggs if you’d like more holiday party-perfect snacks.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls
Prepping the Cakes
Start by unwrapping all the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and crumbling them into a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a food processor for even texture. Add softened cream cheese and stir until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed between your fingers.
Shaping and Coating
Scoop out portions with a small cookie scoop and roll them into smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For best results, chill the balls in the fridge for about 30 minutes before dipping. Melt your candy coating according to package instructions, then dip each ball using a fork or skewer. Let excess coating drip off before placing them back on the tray.
Decorating for the Holidays
While the coating is still wet, sprinkle with festive toppings. You can drizzle with red or green candy melts, add edible glitter, or press in mini candy canes for a peppermint twist. Don’t miss our Chewy Pumpkin Cookies if you’re hunting for more desserts that combine chewy textures with seasonal flavors.
Just like with cake pops, presentation matters. Serve them in mini cupcake liners, arrange them on a holiday platter, or package them in gift bags tied with ribbon. Looking for inspiration? Try Ruler Rice Krispies as another fun and shareable treat.
Variations on Christmas Tree Cake Balls
One of the best things about Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls is how easily they can be customized. Here are some delicious twists:
Chocolate Lovers’ Version
Swap out vanilla cakes for the chocolate Little Debbie trees. Dip in dark chocolate coating and drizzle with white chocolate for a decadent finish.
Peppermint Crunch Cake Balls
Mix crushed candy canes into the cake mixture and add a touch of peppermint extract. These make the ultimate winter holiday bite.
Kid-Friendly Decorating Ideas
Set out bowls of sprinkles, crushed cookies, or mini candies. Let kids roll their own cake balls and decorate them however they like. Just like our Easy Strawberry Santa Treats, this version makes dessert prep part of the fun.
Storing and Serving Little Debbie Cake Balls
These cake balls can be enjoyed right away, but knowing how to store them keeps them fresh longer.
| Storage Method | How Long They Last | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 days | Store in airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Chill for best texture |
| Freezer | 2–3 months | Wrap tightly and thaw before serving |
Serve them on a Christmas dessert tray alongside cookies, fudge, and Cherry Snowball Cookies for variety. They also make great edible gifts packaged in festive tins.

FAQ: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls
Can I use other Little Debbie cakes instead?
Yes! You can swap in Birthday Cakes, Zebra Cakes, or even Oatmeal Creme Pies.
How far in advance can I make cake balls?
You can prepare them up to 3 days ahead if stored in the fridge.
Do I need to refrigerate the finished cake balls?
Yes, refrigeration keeps them fresh, especially if using cream cheese.
Can I freeze them for later?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge before serving.
What’s the easiest way to dip cake balls without making a mess?
Chilling the rolled balls before dipping helps. Use a fork or skewer to let excess coating drip away.
Conclusion: The Magic of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls
With just a few ingredients and no oven required, Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls are the holiday dessert everyone will ask for year after year. They’re festive, versatile, and fun to make with kids. Pair them with drinks like hot cocoa or our Christmas Apple Cranberry Spritzer for the ultimate holiday spread. Whether you’re making them for a party tray, gift box, or a cozy night in, these cake balls deliver holiday magic in every bite.
PrintLittle Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls are an easy no-bake holiday dessert made with snack cakes, cream cheese, candy coating, and festive sprinkles. Perfect for parties, gifts, or family treats.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 20 cake balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box (5 cakes) Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (vanilla or chocolate)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 12 oz white candy coating or almond bark
- Holiday sprinkles (as needed)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp crushed candy canes or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Unwrap all Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and crumble them into a large mixing bowl.
- Add softened cream cheese and mix until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the mixture and roll into smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the cake balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt white candy coating according to package directions.
- Dip each chilled ball into the melted coating using a fork or skewer. Let excess drip off before placing back on the tray.
- While the coating is still wet, decorate with sprinkles, drizzles, or crushed candy canes.
- Allow coating to set fully before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use chocolate Little Debbie cakes for a richer version.
- Add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
- Refrigerate to keep fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- Best served in mini cupcake liners or holiday gift bags.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake ball
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
