Every December, I grab a box of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and turn them into truffles. They taste like frosted cake pops without the extra work. Quick to mix, fun to dip, and perfect for parties or cookie trays.
Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Small cookie scoop
- 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment
- 1 Microwave-safe Bowl
- 1 Fork or dipping tool
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 box Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes 5 count, vanilla
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract alcohol-free
Coating & Decorations
- 12 oz white chocolate melting wafers or vanilla candy coating
- 1 tsp neutral oil or coconut oil optional, to thin coating
- red and green sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decorating
Instructions
Make the truffle centers
- Unwrap the cakes and crumble them into a large bowl. Break apart any big chunks so the mixture is even.
- Add softened cream cheese and alcohol-free vanilla. Stir and press together until a soft, dough-like mixture forms with no dry pockets.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll gently between your palms and place on a parchment-lined sheet. Chill 20-30 minutes until firm.
Coat and decorate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate wafers in 20- to 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. If needed, stir in a little oil to reach a silky, dippable texture.
- Use a fork or dipping tool to coat each chilled ball. Tap off excess, place back on parchment, and add sprinkles or a colored drizzle while still wet.
- Let the coating set at room temperature or refrigerate 10 minutes. Arrange on a platter and enjoy.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
- No-bake and done fast, ideal for last-minute treats.
- Tastes like a bakery cake pop with minimal effort.
- Kid-friendly to make and decorate.
- Festive finish that looks beautiful on dessert platters.
Christmas Tree Cake Truffles Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 box Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes (5 count), vanilla variety recommended.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened. Sub with 1/3 cup vanilla frosting if you prefer.
- 1/2 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract for warm sweetness.
- 12 oz white chocolate melting wafers or vanilla candy coating.
- 1 tsp neutral oil or coconut oil, optional to thin the coating.
- Red and green sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or colored drizzle for decorating.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
1. Crumble the cakes
Unwrap the cakes and crumble them into a large bowl. Break apart any big chunks so the mixture is even.
2. Mix the filling
Add softened cream cheese and alcohol-free vanilla. Stir and press together until a soft, dough-like mixture forms with no dry pockets.
3. Scoop and chill
Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll gently between your palms and place on a parchment-lined sheet. Chill 20-30 minutes until firm.
4. Melt the coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate wafers in 20- to 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. If needed, stir in a little oil to reach a silky, dippable texture.
5. Dip and decorate
Use a fork or dipping tool to coat each chilled ball. Tap off excess, place back on parchment, and add sprinkles or a colored drizzle while still wet.
6. Set and serve
Let the coating set at room temperature or refrigerate 10 minutes. Arrange on a platter and enjoy.
Tips for Success
- Chill the truffle centers well so they hold shape while dipping.
- Use melting wafers or candy coating for smooth, snappy shells.
- If the coating thickens, rewarm briefly and stir in a small splash of oil.
- Work in batches, keeping uncoated balls in the fridge.
- Decorate right after dipping so sprinkles stick.
Variations of Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
- Chocolate shell: Dip in milk or dark chocolate for a contrast to the vanilla cake.
- Minty sparkle: Finish with crushed candy canes.
- Cookie crunch: Stir in 2 tablespoons crushed sandwich cookies before rolling.
- Color drizzle: Melt a few red or green candy wafers and drizzle over set truffles.
- Frosting swap: Use vanilla frosting in place of cream cheese for a sweeter bite.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
- Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Fresh coffee or a latte for a cozy balance to the sweetness.
- Vanilla ice cream and berries for a simple dessert board.
- A festive cookie platter with ginger cookies and shortbread.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 1 week.
- Freeze on a sheet tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- No reheating needed. If condensation forms after chilling, let them rest at room temperature to dry.
Memories Made Around the Table
These truffles have become our December tradition. We line up bowls of sprinkles, turn on holiday music, and everyone gets a turn to dip. It is simple, a little messy, and always memorable.
FAQs
Can I make these without cream cheese? Yes. Swap in about 1/3 cup vanilla frosting. Add a little more if the mixture seems dry.
Why does my coating crack or fall off? Usually the centers are too cold or the coating is too thick. Let the rolled balls sit 5 minutes before dipping and thin the coating with a small amount of oil.
What is the best chocolate to use? White melting wafers or almond bark give the smoothest finish. Real white chocolate with cocoa butter works too but can be a bit fussier.
Can I make them ahead? Absolutely. Prepare up to 2 days in advance and keep chilled. Add sprinkles just after dipping for best color.
Final Thoughts
Christmas Tree Cake Truffles deliver big holiday magic with little effort. Keep a box of cakes on hand, and you can whip up a cheerful dessert any time guests pop in.