The aromas of the holiday season always evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, don’t they? This year, I’m thrilled to share a delightful twist on a childhood favorite: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies! These cookies are more than just treats; they are the perfect blend of soft sugar cookies and a luscious vanilla buttercream filling, charmingly decorated with red stripes and vibrant green sprinkles. Not only are they easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for any home chef, but they also double as a festive centerpiece for your cookie platter. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces when they take a bite! So, are you ready to bring some holiday cheer into your kitchen with this fun, nostalgic recipe? Let’s get started!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Nostalgic Appeal: These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies evoke childhood joy, making them perfect for festive gatherings.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delights.
Eye-Catching Decoration: Vibrant green sprinkles and festive red stripes make these cookies a stunning addition to any dessert table.
Versatile Dimensions: Customize sizes and shapes—consider adding Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon next to them for more variety!
Crowd Favorite: They’re sure to spread holiday cheer and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth during celebrations.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor; do not omit for balanced taste.
• Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise for a light texture; essential for proper baking.
• Butter (1/2 cup + 3/4 cup unsalted) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Sugar (1 cup + 3 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar) – Sweetens the cookies; confectioner’s sugar ensures a smooth buttercream texture. You can swap for a sugar alternative if desired.
• Egg (1, room temperature) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; a flax egg is a great vegan substitute.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp + 1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor; can be swapped with almond extract for a different profile.
For the Buttercream
• Red Food Gel – Used for coloring the buttercream; adjust based on your desired vibrancy, or substitute with beet juice for a natural color.
• Green Sugar Sprinkles – For decoration; while optional, they add a festive touch to your cookies.
Embrace the joy of the holiday season with these Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies, and gather your ingredients to create these delightful treats!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder until well combined. In a stand mixer, cream ½ cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1 room temperature egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for easier handling later.
Step 2: Cut and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper to a thickness of ¼ inch. Use a 5-inch circle cutter to cut out rounds, and then use a 2-inch tree-shaped cutter to cut tree shapes from half of the circles. Place all cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream
In a clean mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of room temperature unsalted butter using a stand mixer until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add 3 ½ cups of confectioner’s sugar, mixing on low until incorporated. Once combined, slowly add in a splash of heavy cream until you achieve a spreadable consistency. Mix in ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Take a portion of the frosting and dye it red with food gel for decoration.
Step 4: Assemble Cookies
Spread a generous layer of the white buttercream on top of each whole cookie. Carefully pipe red stripes on top of the buttercream using the colored frosting, creating a festive look. Place the tree-shaped cookies directly on top of the frosted rounds, gently pressing down to adhere. Finally, sprinkle vibrant green sugar sprinkles over the top to add a joyful finishing touch. Store your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and festive!
What to Serve with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
The perfect holiday feast is all about balance—pair your sweet treats with tempting sides and drinks that elevate your celebrations!
- Hot Cocoa Bar: Cozy up your gathering with a hot cocoa bar featuring marshmallows, whipped cream, and peppermint sticks—perfect for sipping alongside the cookies.
- Spiced Chai Tea: This warming, aromatic beverage complements the sweetness of the cookies while evoking holiday nostalgia with its comforting spices.
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: For a savory touch, serve this classic dish to contrast the sweetness of the cookies; a comforting favorite many will love.
- Festive Fruit Salad: Combine bright winter fruits like pomegranate, citrus, and apples for a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the richness of the cookies.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the festive spirit alive by serving these spiced treats alongside Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies for a deliciously sweet platter.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake: The creamy, spiced flavor of this rich dessert pairs harmoniously with the buttery sweetness of your cookies, creating a delightful indulgence.
- Mulled Wine: For adults, this warm spiced wine adds a touch of holiday elegance and pairs delightfully with the rich flavors of the cookies.
- Eggnog: Indulge in this creamy drink, infused with nutmeg and cinnamon, for a traditional holiday beverage that complements desserts perfectly.
- Cheddar Cheese Platter: The sharpness of aged cheddar can help cut through the sweetness, adding a sophisticated touch to your cookie assortment.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness—everyone loves a little indulgence during the festive season!
How to Store and Freeze Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll retain their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to avoid any drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months and stay delicious—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To refresh cookies, gently warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their fluffy texture, perfect for reliving that nostalgic taste of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies!
Expert Tips for Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother dough and better incorporation, leading to deliciously soft cookies.
-
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 2 hours. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they keep their delightful shape.
-
Buttercream Consistency: For an ideal piping texture, achieve the right balance in your buttercream. If it’s too soft, add more confectioner’s sugar; if it’s too firm, add a splash of heavy cream.
-
Sprinkle Magic: When adding green sugar sprinkles, do so right after assembly. This ensures they stick well to the frosting, enhancing the festive appeal of your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies.
-
Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container; they can stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer. Always separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Make Ahead Options
These Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, making your holiday baking much easier! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first step and chilling it in the refrigerator; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The baked cookies can also be made up to 3 days prior; store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. For the buttercream, mix it up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate it; just give it a stir to bring back its creamy consistency before assembly. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cookies as instructed, and they’ll taste just as delicious and festive as if made fresh that day!
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies with these easy swaps and additions!
-
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
-
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute and use a flax egg for a delicious vegan alternative.
-
Chocolate Twist: Mix cocoa powder into the cookie dough for rich chocolatey cookies. This variation adds decadence to the nostalgic treat!
-
Peppermint Flavor: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the buttercream for a refreshing twist, perfect for the holiday season.
-
Festive Shapes: Instead of just trees, use different cookie cutters to create various holiday shapes. Consider pairing them with some lovely Sponge Cake Heart cookies for added variety!
-
Decorative Sprinkles: Swap the green sugar sprinkles for colorful nonpareils or edible glitter to make your cookie platter truly shine.
-
Lemon Zest: For a citrusy touch, incorporate some lemon zest into the cookie dough for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
-
Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the cookie dough for an added crunch and flavor depth, complementing the soft cookie texture perfectly!
Feel inspired? These variations can easily transform your Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies into something uniquely yours while keeping that fond holiday spirit alive!
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, ensure your butter is soft but not melted, as this creates the best texture. If you’re using eggs, opt for ones that are room temperature since they incorporate better into the dough. As for vanilla extract, go for pure rather than imitation for the best flavor.
How long can I store Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
You can store your delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be sure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for the best experience!
What should I do if my buttercream is too soft or too firm?
If your buttercream turns out too soft, don’t worry! Just add a little more confectioner’s sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too firm, add a splash of heavy cream, mixing well until it’s smooth. Remember, achieving that perfect piping consistency might take a little adjustment, but it’s worth it!
Are there any allergy considerations for the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?
Yes, definitely! These cookies contain common allergens such as butter (dairy), eggs, and wheat. For those with gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free flour blend can substitute the all-purpose flour. If anyone has a dairy allergy, consider using a dairy-free butter and a flax egg as an alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Very much! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. This is a great way to save time on baking day! Just remember to allow the dough to warm up a bit before rolling it out for cutting. It helps with easier handling and results in beautifully shaped cookies.
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies for Festive Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
- In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the flour mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of ¼ inch.
- Use a circle cutter to cut out rounds, then use a tree-shaped cutter to cut tree shapes from half of the circles.
- Place all cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add confectioner's sugar, mixing on low until incorporated. Add cream until spreadable.
- Mix in salt and vanilla extract. Dye a portion red with food gel.
- Spread a layer of white buttercream on each whole cookie, pipe red stripes on top.
- Place tree-shaped cookies on top of frosted rounds and sprinkle green sugar sprinkles on top.
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
Leave a Reply