Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with an indulgent and festive Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake! This creamy, decadent shake combines the nostalgic flavors of Little Debbie’s Christmas Tree Cakes with the smooth richness of vanilla ice cream, making it a must-have treat during the holidays. Perfect for dessert lovers of all ages, this recipe is guaranteed to bring holiday cheer with every sip.
A Brief History of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes
Introduced as a holiday special, Little Debbie’s Christmas Tree Cakes are a beloved seasonal treat. These cakes feature layers of moist vanilla sponge, a luscious crème filling, and a signature white icing topped with festive green sprinkles and red stripes. Over the years, they’ve become synonymous with Christmas celebrations, sparking creativity in holiday-themed desserts. Our shake recipe turns this classic cake into a sippable delight, capturing all its charm in a frosty glass.
Ingredients
To create this festive masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 scoops of premium vanilla ice cream
- ½ cup whole milk (or use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option)
- 2 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes
- Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- ¼ teaspoon of Christmas sprinkles
- A dash of holiday spirit
How To Make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake
1. Prepare Your Blender
Begin by setting up a high-powered blender. This will ensure a smooth, creamy texture for your shake. If your blender isn’t powerful, let the ice cream soften slightly before blending.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
Add 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream to the blender. Next, pour in ½ cup of milk. The ratio of milk to ice cream determines the thickness of your shake, so adjust slightly if you prefer a thinner or thicker consistency.
3. Blend in the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake
Break 1 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake into smaller pieces and add it to the blender. This step infuses the shake with the iconic flavor and texture of the cake. Blend on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender if needed to ensure all cake pieces are fully incorporated.
4. Assemble Your Shake
Carefully pour the blended mixture into a tall, chilled glass. The creamy, speckled shake should flow smoothly, resembling a winter wonderland in a cup.
5. Add Festive Toppings
Top the shake with a generous swirl of whipped cream, creating a snowy peak. Sprinkle on ¼ teaspoon of Christmas sprinkles for a festive pop of color.
6. Garnish with a Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake
For an eye-catching finish, take the second Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake and place it gently on top of the whipped cream. This not only adds a delightful garnish but also offers a fun treat to enjoy with the shake.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with a wide straw and a long spoon to scoop out every decadent layer. This shake is best enjoyed fresh, capturing the perfect blend of cold, creamy, and cake-like textures.
Tips for Customizing Your Shake
- Add a Peppermint Twist: For a holiday spin, crush some peppermint candies and blend a small amount into the shake or sprinkle them on top.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the shake for a mocha-like vibe.
- Make it Boozy: For adult versions, add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream or peppermint schnapps to the blender.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ice cream and almond milk for a plant-based shake.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays
This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake encapsulates the essence of holiday indulgence. It’s quick and easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and brings a festive flair to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for a unique dessert idea, or simply treating yourself, this shake is guaranteed to impress.
FAQs
Can I use other Little Debbie snacks for this shake?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this shake recipe is its versatility. Little Debbie snacks come in a variety of flavors and textures, which means you can experiment with different treats to create unique shakes. For example, swapping out the Christmas Tree Cakes with snacks like Swiss Rolls, Zebra Cakes, or Nutty Bars can completely change the flavor profile.
Here’s how:
- Swiss Rolls: Add a chocolatey richness and creamy swirl to the shake. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
- Zebra Cakes: Provide a similar vanilla flavor but with a fun striped aesthetic that looks great blended into the shake.
- Nutty Bars: Introduce a delightful peanut butter and chocolate combo. You may want to pair this with a peanut butter drizzle for extra indulgence.
Remember to adjust the sweetness level if needed, as some snacks may be sweeter or richer than others. You can also mix and match snacks to craft a one-of-a-kind treat. This recipe is all about embracing creativity and enjoying the flavors you love most.
How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with leftover shake (a rare occurrence because it’s so delicious!), storing it properly is essential to preserve its flavor and texture. Pour the leftover shake into an airtight container, leaving about an inch of space at the top because liquids expand when frozen. Seal the container tightly to prevent freezer burn and store it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the shake again, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop or pour. You can even blend it again with a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. However, keep in mind that frozen shakes can lose some of their original texture over time, so it’s best to consume the leftovers within 1–2 days.
What’s the best way to soften ice cream for blending?
Softening ice cream properly is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy shake without overworking your blender. The easiest method is to let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5–10 minutes before using it. This allows it to soften slightly without melting completely. To test if it’s ready, try scooping it with a spoon; it should slide out easily but still hold its shape.
If you’re short on time, you can speed up the process:
- Microwave Method: Place the ice cream in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 5–10 second intervals. Stir after each interval to ensure even softening. Be careful not to melt it.
- Warm Spoon Method: Run a metal spoon under hot water, dry it, and then use it to scoop the ice cream. The warmth from the spoon helps cut through the ice cream more easily.
Avoid letting the ice cream sit out too long, as overly melted ice cream can make your shake watery instead of creamy. Softened but still cold ice cream blends best with other ingredients, giving you that signature thick and luscious shake texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
For those mindful of indulgences, here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional content for a serving of the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake:
- Calories: 520–580 (depending on milk type)
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Sugar: 55g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Pair Your Shake With Other Holiday Treats
The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake pairs beautifully with other festive favorites to create a full dessert table. Consider serving it alongside:
- Holiday Sugar Cookies: The crispness of cookies balances the creaminess of the shake.
- Gingerbread Men: Add a spicy, aromatic touch to your dessert spread.
- Peppermint Bark: A delightful contrast of chocolate and mint adds an extra layer of festive cheer.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets this shake apart from others is its nostalgic use of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, a dessert that’s already a favorite in many households. By blending it into a milkshake, we elevate it into a creative, multi-textured treat that combines the best of cake and ice cream in a single sip. The whimsical presentation—with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a tree cake garnish—makes it not only a dessert but also a conversation starter.
Holiday Pro Tip
Double the recipe for larger gatherings and serve the shakes in mason jars tied with festive ribbons. This makes a visually stunning presentation and allows guests to carry their dessert around easily during holiday parties.
Make It a Holiday Tradition
The Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Shake is more than a recipe—it’s an experience. Involve family members, especially kids, in the preparation process. They’ll love adding the sprinkles and garnishing with the iconic tree cakes. Over time, this shake can become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, bringing back sweet memories year after year.