Nothing says holiday joy like Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Balls. These bite-sized treats are loaded with all the flavors of Christmas and are ideal for parties, gifts, or simply a cozy evening treat. This recipe elevates the nostalgic charm of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes by transforming them into beautifully decorated, creamy cake balls. The soft, flavorful filling of these treats pairs perfectly with the creamy white candy coating, while the festive red and green sprinkles make them a true visual delight. Let’s dive into the rich history of these iconic treats and learn how to make them step-by-step.
The Story Behind Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes
Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes have been a holiday favorite since their introduction in the early 1990s. Their unique tree shape, fluffy cake layers, and festive icing evoke holiday nostalgia, making them a family staple each December. Over the years, fans have creatively used these cakes to make everything from trifles to cookies, but one of the most beloved adaptations has to be these delightful cake balls. Christmas Cake Balls take the familiar flavors of these cakes and reimagine them into an irresistible holiday confection. This recipe is easy to follow, yet it yields an impressive dessert perfect for any festive occasion.
Ingredients
To create these delightful cake balls, you will need the following ingredients. Each item is carefully selected to bring out the best flavors and textures, ensuring your Christmas Cake Balls are a treat to remember.
- 2 boxes (5-count each) of vanilla Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, crumbled
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 (16 oz) package of white candy melts
- ¼ cup red candy melts, melted (optional, for drizzle)
- Red and green sanding sugar, for decoration
Tip: Using room temperature cream cheese will make it easier to blend with the crumbled cakes, creating a smoother, more cohesive mixture.
How To Make Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls
Follow these detailed instructions to create your festive Christmas Cake Balls. Each step ensures that your treats turn out perfectly coated, deliciously creamy, and visually stunning.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Mixture
- Crumble the Christmas Tree Cakes
Start by unwrapping the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and placing them in a large mixing bowl. Using clean hands or a fork, crumble the cakes into small, even pieces. You want a coarse, crumbly texture to ensure the mixture blends well with the cream cheese. - Combine with Cream Cheese
Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl of crumbled cakes. Using a spoon, spatula, or your hands, mix the cream cheese into the cake crumbles thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, dough-like consistency. This step may take a few minutes, but it’s essential for the perfect texture in your cake balls.
Step 2: Form the Cake Balls
- Shape the Dough
Once your mixture is fully combined, scoop a tablespoon of the dough and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Repeat this process until all the dough is used up, aiming for uniform-sized balls. - Chill the Cake Balls
Place the baking sheet with the rolled balls into the refrigerator. Chill them for about 30 minutes. This step firms up the balls, making them easier to dip in the candy coating and ensuring they hold their shape during the dipping process.
Step 3: Prepare the Candy Coating
- Melt the White Candy Melts
While the cake balls are chilling, prepare the white candy coating. Follow the melting instructions on the package, which usually involves heating the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Ensure the coating is fully melted and lump-free for easy dipping.
Pro Tip: If the candy melts are too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to achieve a smoother, more fluid consistency.
Step 4: Coat the Cake Balls
- Dip Each Ball in the Candy Coating
Once the candy melts are ready, remove the cake balls from the refrigerator. Use a fork or dipping tool to carefully dip each ball into the melted candy, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lift the ball from the candy coating, allowing any excess coating to drip off, then place it back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. - Optional: Drizzle with Red Candy Melts
If you’d like to add an extra festive touch, melt the red candy melts in a separate bowl. Use a spoon to drizzle the red candy coating over the coated balls in a zig-zag pattern, creating a beautiful, festive look. - Sprinkle with Sanding Sugar
Before the candy coating sets, sprinkle each ball with red and green sanding sugar. This adds a fun, holiday-themed sparkle and enhances the visual appeal of your cake balls.
Step 5: Set the Coating and Serve
- Let the Coating Harden
Allow the coated cake balls to sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes or until the candy coating is completely set. You can speed up this process by placing the baking sheet in the refrigerator if desired. - Serve and Enjoy
Your Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a festive platter or package them in decorative boxes for a holiday gift. These treats are a sure hit at holiday gatherings, with their delightful flavor and eye-catching presentation.
Storage and Tips for Perfect Christmas Cake Balls
- Storing: Store the cake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week, making them a convenient make-ahead option for the holiday season.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uncoated cake balls. Dip them in the candy coating once thawed. Frozen cake balls can last up to three months.
- Variations: Try adding peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture for a minty twist, or use chocolate candy melts instead of white for a richer flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Other Little Debbie Cake Varieties?
Yes, feel free to use different flavors, such as Little Debbie Zebra Cakes or Swiss Rolls, to create your own twist on this recipe. The process remains the same, but the flavor and appearance will vary.
2. Why Are My Cake Balls Cracking?
Cracks can occur if the balls are too cold before dipping. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to prevent cracking.
3. How Do I Prevent the Candy Melts from Becoming Too Thick?
If your candy melts are too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to the melted candy to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
4. Can I Make These Cake Balls Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and look for vegan-friendly candy melts to make this recipe dairy-free.
These Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls are a festive, easy, and delightful treat that everyone will love. With their creamy interior, crisp candy coating, and festive decorations, they’re a must-have for any holiday dessert table. Happy holidays and enjoy making (and eating) these delicious cake balls!