Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

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A Festive Twist on Cheesecake

Few desserts bring out the holiday spirit like the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake. This festive, creamy treat combines the classic cheesecake with Little Debbie’s iconic Christmas Tree Cakes, adding a sweet touch of nostalgia. Perfectly layered with a graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and topped with white chocolate ganache, this cheesecake is not only visually delightful but also rich in flavor. Let’s dive into this detailed, step-by-step recipe to create an unforgettable holiday dessert.

The Story Behind Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes

The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes are a cherished holiday treat. With their soft vanilla layers, rich cream filling, and iconic green and red decorations, these cakes have been a beloved snack for decades. Incorporating these into a cheesecake takes the holiday spirit up a notch, blending the flavors and textures of both treats. This recipe will guide you through each step to craft the perfect Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake for the season.

Ingredients for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

Crust:

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs – for a classic, buttery base that complements the cream cheese filling
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter – binds the crumbs together and provides a rich, moist texture

Filling:

  • 3 packs cream cheese, softened (8 oz each) – the heart of any cheesecake, providing that creamy texture
  • ½ cup granulated sugar – adds just the right amount of sweetness
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – helps to stabilize the cheesecake and give it a silky texture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for a touch of flavor that complements the Christmas Tree Cakes
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream – adds richness and helps achieve a smooth, airy filling
  • 2 large eggs – binds the filling together and creates a silky structure
  • 7 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, chopped – the star of the dessert, infusing holiday flavors into every bite

Ganache Topping:

  • 1 cup white chocolate – melts into a smooth, creamy topping with a hint of sweetness
  • ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream – gives the ganache a glossy, smooth finish

Decoration:

  • Green sprinkles – for that festive touch
  • Red buttercream frosting – adds a pop of color and enhances the Christmas look

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cheesecake later.

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
  2. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
  4. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add ½ cup granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, mixing until the sugar dissolves and the batter is smooth.
  3. Pour in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ cup heavy whipping cream. Continue beating until everything is well incorporated.
  4. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.
  5. Finally, gently fold in the chopped Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, ensuring that the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

  1. Pour the filling over the graham cracker crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Place the cheesecake on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  3. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for about 30 minutes with the oven door slightly open. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.

Step 5: Cool the Cheesecake

  1. After 30 minutes in the oven, remove the cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
  2. Once it reaches room temperature, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache

  1. In a small saucepan, heat ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream over low heat until it begins to steam (do not let it boil).
  2. Pour the hot cream over 1 cup of white chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for a minute.
  3. Stir gently until the chocolate melts completely, forming a smooth and creamy ganache.
  4. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.

Step 7: Assemble and Decorate

  1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
  2. Pour the cooled ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a festive look.
  3. Decorate the top with green sprinkles and finish by piping red buttercream frosting in festive designs, reminiscent of the decorations on Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes.

Tips for a Perfect Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to create a smooth batter without lumps.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the eggs can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in the cheesecake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Water Bath for a Crack-Free Cheesecake: For an ultra-smooth cheesecake, consider baking it in a water bath. Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil, place it in a larger pan filled with an inch of water, and bake as directed. This method creates steam, ensuring an even and gentle bake.
  • Chill Time: Cheesecake needs ample chill time to fully set. Chilling overnight is highly recommended for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced mulled wine, or coffee. Its rich, creamy texture and festive flavors make it an ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings. For an extra holiday touch, serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

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