There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the home during the holiday season. Inspired by the beloved Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, these delightful Christmas Tree Cake Cookies bring that nostalgic experience straight to your kitchen. With their soft sugar cookie base and luscious vanilla buttercream filling, each bite is a sweet reminder of childhood celebrations. Topped with cheerful red stripes and vibrant green sprinkles, they not only taste amazing but also look like works of art on a festive cookie platter.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging with family while watching your favorite holiday movies, these cookies are a crowd-pleasing treat that requires just a bit of effort for a whole lot of joy. So, dust off your mixing bowls and get ready to create holiday magic with these easy-to-make cookies that capture the essence of the season!
Why are Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies a must-try?
Nostalgia: These cookies evoke childhood memories of festive celebrations, bringing back the delightful taste of Little Debbie’s iconic treats.
Deliciously Simple: With straightforward steps, you don't need to be a baking pro to whip up this festive favorite.
Visually Stunning: Adorned with bright red stripes and green sprinkles, they make a stunning centerpiece for holiday tables.
Versatile Enjoyment: Share them at cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or simply savor at home as you watch holiday classics.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to switch up the extracts or sprinkles, adding a personal touch to your festive cookies.
These cookies not only taste great but also create heartwarming memories with each bite, perfect for your holiday gatherings!
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour - Provides structure to the cookies; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free options.
• Salt - Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Baking Powder - Helps the cookies rise for a light and fluffy texture.
• Butter - Adds richness and moisture; ensure it's at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Sugar - Sweetens while contributing to browning; use a mix of granulated and confectioner’s sugar for a lovely texture.
• Egg - Binds ingredients and adds moisture; using a room temperature egg results in a smoother batter.
• Vanilla Extract - Delivers a depth of flavor; almond extract can offer a nostalgic twist instead.
For the Decoration
• Red Food Gel - Used for piping to mimic the traditional Christmas Tree Cake appearance.
• Green Sugar Sprinkles - Provides a festive touch; edible glitter works well for a different effect.
For the Buttercream Frosting
• Unsalted Butter - Forms the base; cream to a fluffy, dreamy consistency.
• Confectioner’s Sugar - Sweetens the frosting; add gradually to avoid a powdery mess.
• Heavy Whipping Cream - Adjusts the frosting’s consistency; add more for creamier frosting.
Make these Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies to enjoy the festive indulgence and enjoy the heartfelt memories they inspire!
How to Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients to form a smooth dough. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to ensure it holds its shape during baking.
Cut and Bake the Cookies: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use circle cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on baking sheets. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Buttercream: In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter and confectioner’s sugar until creamy. Gradually add heavy cream and a pinch of salt, mixing until combined. Separate the frosting into two bowls, dye one portion with red food gel to create a vibrant piping color.
Assemble Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, pipe white buttercream on half of them and decorate with red stripes and green sprinkles. Top with remaining cookies to create delightful cookie sandwiches.
Optional: Serve with a glass of milk for the ultimate holiday treat experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies are not just a festive treat on their own; they lend themselves beautifully to various serving ideas that’ll spread cheer and joy.
Holiday Cookie Platters: Arrange these vibrant cookies on a large platter alongside other holiday snacks for an eye-catching display. Their cheerful colors will stand out, adding a festive touch to any gathering.
Gift-Giving: Pack them in decorative boxes or tins as homemade gifts for friends and family. A batch of these cookies will surely warm hearts this holiday season!
Kids’ Holiday Parties: These cookies are fantastic for children’s holiday parties! Let the little ones assist in decorating, turning baking into a fun and engaging family activity.
Cozy Movie Nights: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa during cozy family movie nights. They make the perfect sweet companion to classic holiday films and epic new releases alike.
Cookie Exchanges: Share your homemade creations at cookie exchanges. Not only will you impress friends with these vibrant, festive cookies, but you’ll also have the opportunity to gather new recipes for your baking repertoire.
Take these suggestions to heart, and elevate your holiday experience with these enchanting Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies!
What to Serve with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
To create a delightful holiday feast, consider pairing these festive cookies with complementary dishes that enhance the season’s spirit.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, indulgent drink that pairs perfectly with the sweet frosting, inviting a cozy ambiance.
- Creamy Eggnog: The spiced flavors of this classic holiday beverage beautifully balance the sweetness of the cookies, making a nostalgic combination.
- Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, savory nuts add a contrast in texture and a hint of spice, creating a satisfying nibble alongside the cookies.
- Fruity Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, refreshing the palate after bites of the sugary cookies.
- Peppermint Bark: This festive treat offers a chocolatey richness and minty freshness that echoes the holiday spirit beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce makes for a decadent dessert pairing that everyone will love.
These pairings enhance the sweet delight of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies, setting the stage for joyful seasonal gatherings and cherished family moments.
Expert Tips for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better mixing.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the dough maintain its shape while baking and prevents spreading.
Even Thickness: Roll out the dough evenly to about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures uniform baking and perfect cookie texture.
Careful Decorating: When assembling, use parchment paper between layers if storing, preventing frosting bleed and keeping your cookies looking fresh.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by substituting almond extract for vanilla in your buttercream to give your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies a different twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. If you have more time, you can also cut and bake the cookies, letting them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the buttercream, prepare it ahead and refrigerate it; just allow it to come to room temperature before piping. When you’re ready to assemble, simply decorate the cookies, and you will enjoy these festive treats with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
Storage Tips for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, place cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, keeping them away from moisture.
Freezer: Freeze your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2 months. Use airtight freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For a soft, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, microwave frozen cookies for about 10-15 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best to use for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results, as it provides the perfect structure for these cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, for the best texture.
How should I store Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
To keep them fresh, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep them sealed to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer your cookies in an airtight container, with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. For best results, allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven warmth.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky, it's likely due to the temperature or moisture content. Try adding a tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough reaches a workable consistency. Chilling the dough for a longer period can also help it firm up.
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
These cookies contain common allergens such as butter, eggs, and wheat. They are not safe for pets, especially dogs, due to ingredients like chocolate and sugar. If you have allergy concerns, it’s best to consult with your local allergist or avoid these treats.
How do I achieve better decoration results with the frosting?
To get a neat piping effect with your frosting, ensure that it is whipped to a fluffy consistency and that your piping bag is properly fitted. You can practice on parchment paper before decorating the cookies to get a feel for the pressure you’ll need to apply when piping the red stripes.
Indulge in Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to form dough. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- Roll out chilled dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters and place on baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden. Cool on a wire rack.
- Beat butter and confectioner's sugar until creamy. Gradually add heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Divide into two bowls, dye one with red food gel.
- Pipe white buttercream on half of the cookies, decorate with red stripes and green sprinkles, then sandwich with remaining cookies.
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