A quick welcome to this festive dip
This dip uses Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes to make a creamy, sweet holiday treat everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make and fun to serve at parties or family gatherings. If you like quick, festive breads, you might also enjoy this pull-apart holiday bread: Festive Pull-Apart Bread in a Christmas Tree Shape.
Why this dessert works so well for the holidays
You get familiar holiday flavors without a lot of fuss. The cake pieces add a soft texture and the whipped topping keeps the dip light. It’s kid-friendly and great for busy hosts who want a fast but cute option. If you enjoy easy mini desserts, here’s another idea to try: Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes.
How to make Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes Dip
Follow these simple steps to get the dip ready fast.
What you’ll need (Ingredients)
- 8 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (about 1½ box)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- Christmas sprinkles
Step-by-step directions
- Unwrap 7 of the 8 Christmas Tree Cakes.
- Break the 7 unwrapped trees into a large bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla.
- Use a hand mixer (or stand mixer or food processor) on medium to blend until smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a rubber spatula.
- Transfer the dip to your serving dish, cover, and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
- When ready, remove from fridge, sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles, and unwrap the last Christmas Tree Cake. Place the unwrapped cake in the center as a garnish.
Best ways to serve this dip
Serve it chilled with simple dippers: graham crackers, vanilla wafers, pretzel sticks, fresh fruit (strawberries, apple slices), or mini cookies. The contrast of crunchy and soft works well.
How to keep it fresh
Cover the dip well with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving if it separates slightly. Do not freeze — the texture will change.
Tips to get the best texture and flavor
- Use fully softened cream cheese for a smooth mix.
- Mix until the cake pieces are well broken down but not completely pureed — small soft cake bits add texture.
- For a lighter dip, fold in the whipped topping slowly to keep air in the mixture.
- Want a slightly stronger vanilla note? Add an extra 1/2 tsp of vanilla.
- For more holiday flair, try colorful or themed sprinkles. Also see another easy mini dessert idea here: Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes.
Easy variations you can try
- Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolate twist.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate-vanilla version.
- Swap in peppermint sprinkles or crushed candy cane for a minty holiday spin.
- Use other Little Debbie treats if you want a different flavor base.
Quick nutrition note
Exact nutrition depends on serving size and brands used. Roughly, a 1/4–1/2 cup serving may range from about 180–260 calories, mostly from fat and sugar. Check product labels for precise values if you need detailed nutrition facts.
Family-friendly serving ideas
- Place the dip in a festive bowl in the center of the table for a holiday snack station.
- Let kids build their own dip plates with a selection of dippers.
- Use the last unwrapped tree cake as a centerpiece on the dip so kids can grab it for an extra treat.
What pairs well with this sweet dip
- Warm coffee or hot chocolate balances the sweetness.
- A simple sparkling cider adds a festive touch.
- If serving as part of a dessert table, pair with plain cookies, nuts, or fresh fruit to give guests choices.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Stir gently before serving.
Q: Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
A: Yes, stabilized whipped cream works, but store-bought whipped topping is easier and holds its texture longer.
Q: How many people does this serve?
A: It depends on portion size. For small party servings, it can serve about 8–12 people.
Q: Can I make this with other Little Debbie cakes?
A: Yes. Use a similar soft cake treat if you want a different flavor.
Conclusion
For the original recipe and inspiration, see the official Little Debbie version: Christmas Tree Cakes® Dip. For a homemade take and user photos, check this fan-made post: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Dip – 4 Sons ‘R’ Us. Another blogger’s version and tips are available here: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip – Grits and Gouda.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes Dip
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes About 1½ boxes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Ensure it's fully softened for best texture
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Add 1/2 tsp more for a stronger vanilla flavor
- 16 oz whipped topping, thawed Like Cool Whip
- Christmas sprinkles For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Unwrap 7 of the 8 Christmas Tree Cakes.
- Break the 7 unwrapped trees into a large bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, milk, and vanilla.
- Use a hand mixer (or stand mixer or food processor) on medium to blend until smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a rubber spatula.
- Transfer the dip to your serving dish, cover, and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
- When ready, remove from fridge, sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles, and unwrap the last Christmas Tree Cake. Place the unwrapped cake in the center as a garnish.
