Name: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-490341H36M36S
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ½ cup melted butter; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Green icing; Red sprinkles

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive dessert that brings joy with every bite, this Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat) is an absolute must-try. It captures the nostalgic charm of the classic holiday snack cake but elevates it with a rich, creamy cheesecake base and a luscious chocolate cookie crust. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire, it offers that perfect blend of tangy cream cheese sweetness and a fudgy chocolate foundation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, decorating it to resemble Christmas trees adds a playful and delightful seasonal touch that makes this cheesecake the star of any dessert table.

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat) - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that come together flawlessly to create its wonderfully indulgent texture and vibrant festive look. Each component plays a vital role in balancing flavor, providing creamy richness, or adding just the right hint of crunch and color to make your dessert both delicious and attractive.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the crunchy and chocolatey base for the cheesecake crust, setting a perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Melted butter: Helps bind the cookie crumbs together for a sturdy crust that complements the smooth cheesecake.
Cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient of any cheesecake, offering rich creaminess and tangy flavor.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough without overpowering it.
Large eggs: Provide structure and help create that classic cheesecake custard texture.
Sour cream: Adds moistness and a subtle tang to keep the cheesecake from being too dense.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
Green icing and red sprinkles: Key to transforming your cheesecake into charming Christmas trees with festive flair.

How to Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan. This crust is the foundation of your cheesecake, so make sure it’s compact and evenly spread for a sturdy base.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

Use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until you achieve a smooth and silky texture. This step ensures no lumps will ruin the lusciousness of your cheesecake. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream and Vanilla

Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture. These ingredients add a wonderful tang balanced by warm vanilla notes, keeping the cheesecake moist and full of flavor. Blend everything until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can affect the texture.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the filling evenly over the prepared chocolate crust. Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. This will ensure the filling remains creamy without being undercooked.

Step 5: Cool, Chill, and Decorate

Once out of the oven, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chilling process will help the flavors develop and the texture firm up perfectly. When ready, use green icing and red sprinkles to decorate the top, creating little Christmas tree shapes that capture the fun and festive spirit of the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat).

How to Serve Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat)

Garnishes

Decorating your cheesecake with vibrant green icing and bright red sprinkles is a must to mimic the iconic Little Debbie trees. Feel free to get creative by piping different patterns or adding edible glitter for an extra sparkle. Fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing contrast and hint of green alongside your icing trees.

Side Dishes

Pair this cheesecake with light accompaniments to balance its richness. A small bowl of fresh berry compote or a citrus fruit salad can cut through the creamy texture and introduce a burst of freshness. Hot chocolate or a spiced cinnamon tea also complement this decadent dessert beautifully during holiday gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

For added charm, slice the cheesecake into individual tree-shaped portions or use a cookie cutter for perfect mini trees. Arrange them on a festive platter with sprigs of rosemary or pine needles to mimic a wintery forest scene. This presentation turns your dessert into an unforgettable centerpiece, perfect for inviting smiles and conversations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container and refrigerate where it will keep fresh for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to maintain its creamy goodness. Be sure to keep it well-covered to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat) freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. When properly stored, it can last up to 2 months frozen. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Cheesecake is generally best served chilled, so avoid reheating to preserve its texture. If you prefer it slightly softened, let slices sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before enjoying to bring out the flavors without sacrificing creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While chocolate cookie crumbs work best for that rich, fudgy base, you can swap in graham cracker crumbs or even ginger snaps for a different but delicious twist.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the filling?

Sour cream adds moistness and a subtle tang to balance the richness, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or omit it—just expect a slightly different texture and flavor.

How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?

Baking at a lower temperature and not overbaking are key. Also, avoid overmixing your batter and let the cheesecake cool gradually. Running a knife around the edge after baking can help prevent cracks too.

Can I make this cheesecake in a different pan size?

Yes, but be mindful of baking times. A larger pan will yield a thinner cheesecake that bakes faster, while a smaller pan may need a longer bake. Adjust accordingly and keep an eye on the texture.

What’s the best way to pipe the green icing for decorations?

Use a piping bag fitted with a small round or star tip to create crisp tree shapes. Practice on parchment paper before decorating the cheesecake to get comfortable with the pressure and flow.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into making this delightful Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake (Copycat) at home. It’s a wonderful way to bring some holiday magic to your dessert table with ingredients you can easily find and a process that’s straightforward but full of fun. Decorating your cheesecake into festive trees makes this all the more special and sure to wow family and friends alike. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your favorite seasonal treats.