Get ready to bake a show-stopping dessert this holiday season! This festive Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe brings all the joy and nostalgia of childhood memories into a decadent, creamy cheesecake. Inspired by the beloved Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, this dessert offers a unique blend of classic cheesecake luxury and playful holiday cheer. Prepare to impress everyone with this truly magical Christmas treat.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Cheesecake
This dessert isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience! You will absolutely adore this Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe for so many reasons:
- It’s incredibly festive and fun, perfect for holiday tables.
- You’ll find that nostalgic, comforting Little Debbie flavor within.
- This impressive dessert makes you look like a baking pro.
- Enjoy the creamy, dreamy cheesecake texture in every bite.
- It’s the perfect sweet centerpiece for all your Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your show-stopping Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe. Using high-quality items ensures the best flavor and texture.
For the Golden Oreo Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Golden Oreos (about 18 cookies), crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Christmas nonpareils (optional)
For the Christmas Tree Cheesecake:
- 28 ounces full-fat cream cheese (3 1/2 8-ounce blocks), softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 10 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (4 broken for batter, 6 whole)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup full-fat sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
For the White Chocolate Ganache:
- 4 ounces white baking chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
For the Decoration:
- ½ to 1 tablespoon green sanding sugar
- Red store-bought cookie frosting
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for homemade whipped cream)
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (for homemade whipped cream)
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this amazing Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe to fit your preferences. For the crust, feel free to use any flavor of Oreo cookies or even shortbread. If Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes are unavailable, chocolate or Zebra Cakes work wonderfully. Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter. Greek yogurt makes a fine substitute for sour cream. While baking chocolate is best for ganache, white chocolate chips are also an option. Customize your sanding sugar and red frosting to suit your festive decor.
Equipment
You won’t need many specialty tools for this Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe. Here is what makes the baking process smooth:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Parchment paper (for a circle and strips)
- Food processor (or a ziplock bag and rolling pin)
- Large mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Larger roasting pan for the water bath
- Rubber spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Angled spatula
- Piping bag and 1M tip (optional, for whipped cream)
Instructions
Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create your perfect Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe. This guide simplifies each stage for a stress-free baking experience.
For the Golden Oreo Crust
Start by preparing the foundation of your cheesecake. This crust is quick and simple.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with baking spray. Place a parchment paper circle in the bottom and line the sides with parchment strips.
- Process the Golden Oreos in a food processor until they form fine crumbs.
- Add the melted butter to the crumbs. Pulse until well combined and the crumbs hold together. If using nonpareils, stir them in now.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
- Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
For the Christmas Tree Cheesecake Batter
Now for the star of your Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe – the decadent filling!
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and the 4 broken Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes to the cream cheese mixture.
- Beat on medium speed until all ingredients are just combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed just until each egg is incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Gently stir in the full-fat sour cream and heavy cream until barely combined.
- Prepare your springform pan for a water bath. Wrap the outside of the pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring no water can seep in. Alternatively, place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust.
- Carefully arrange the 6 whole Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes in a single layer over the batter.
- Spoon the remaining cheesecake batter evenly over the cakes.
- Gently tap the pan a few times on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Place the foil-wrapped springform pan into the larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, prop the door ajar, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath, remove the foil, and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature.
- Once cool, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.
For the White Chocolate Ganache
This smooth ganache adds an extra layer of sweetness and elegance.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped white baking chocolate and the heavy whipping cream.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Chill the ganache in the fridge for about 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
- Carefully spread the chilled ganache evenly over the top of the completely cooled cheesecake using an angled spatula.
- Sprinkle the green sanding sugar over the ganache for a festive sparkle.
- Using the red store-bought cookie frosting, pipe wavy lines across the top to resemble garland.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
A final flourish of creamy whipped topping completes your holiday masterpiece.
- In a clean, large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar.
- Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a 1M star tip (or your favorite decorative tip).
- Pipe beautiful swirls of whipped cream along the edges of the cheesecake. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delightful creation!
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Cheesecake
Achieving cheesecake perfection is easy with these helpful hints. Follow them for a flawless Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe every time.
- Always use room temperature cream cheese and eggs. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix your cheesecake batter once you add the eggs. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can lead to cracks.
- A proper water bath provides moist, even baking and helps prevent surface cracks.
- Tap your pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles before baking. This contributes to a smoother texture.
- Chill your cheesecake completely overnight for the best texture and clean slices. Patience truly pays off.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Your beautiful Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe deserves proper presentation and care.
Serving Suggestions
Slice your Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe into generous wedges and serve it chilled. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a warm mug of hot cocoa or a festive coffee. For an extra touch of sparkle, garnish individual slices with a few more Christmas sprinkles or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from absorbing other food odors.
- Freeze: For longer storage, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then double-wrap it in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
Get creative with your Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe! Experiment by using different Little Debbie cakes, such as Zebra Cakes, for a fun twist. You can also try alternative ganache flavors like milk chocolate or dark chocolate. Change up the sprinkles or frosting colors to match other holiday themes or your personal preference.
Nutrition Information
This Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe provides a decadent treat perfect for holiday celebrations.
Please note: The nutritional information provided here is an estimate and can vary based on specific brands and exact ingredient measurements used.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8th of cheesecake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 700-750 kcal |
| Total Fat | 45-50 g |
| Saturated Fat | 25-30 g |
| Cholesterol | 180-200 mg |
| Sodium | 300-350 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 65-70 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2 g |
| Total Sugars | 50-55 g |
| Protein | 10-12 g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about making this delightful Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe.
- Will the Christmas Tree Cakes get soggy? No, the Little Debbie cakes bake into the cheesecake beautifully, maintaining a pleasant, cake-like texture within the creamy filling. They become a delicious, integrated part of the cheesecake.
- Can I prepare this cheesecake in advance? Absolutely! Cheesecake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake and chill it up to 2-3 days before serving, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Can I use a different pan size? While designed for a 9-inch springform, you could adapt it for a 9×13 pan. Adjust the baking time and note the layers might be thinner.
- Why is a water bath important for cheesecake? A water bath provides gentle, even heat, which prevents the cheesecake from cracking and helps it bake to a smooth, custardy texture. It also adds moisture to the oven. According to Baker by Nature, a water bath (bain marie) insulates your cheesecake from the oven’s direct heat, promoting gentle cooking and preventing cracks.
Conclusion
This enchanting Christmas Tree Cheesecake recipe truly captures the spirit of the season in every delightful bite. Its festive appearance and nostalgic flavors make it the ultimate centerpiece for your holiday table. We encourage you to try this unique dessert and create wonderful memories with loved ones. Share your amazing holiday baking creations with us; we love seeing your festive masterpieces!
