As the holiday season approaches, I find myself transported back to childhood memories with every whiff of sugar and spice. Recently, I was reminded of the warm joy that comes from baking when I recreated a favorite treat: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies. These delightful gems capture the essence of those nostalgic tree cakes, combining a tender sugar cookie base with a luscious vanilla buttercream that would make anyone's sweet tooth dance with delight.

When I first piped the creamy, snowy frosting and sprinkled on the vibrant holiday colors, I felt an overwhelming sense of cheer. Not only do these cookies bring festive flair to the table, but their soft, cake-like texture makes them crowd-pleasers at any holiday gathering. So, if you're ready to swap out the fast food routine and dive into the homemade warmth of holiday baking, let's whip up a batch of these spirited treats that will surely echo the sweet laughter of the season!

Why are Little Debbie Cake Cookies a Must-Bake?

Nostalgic Delight: These cookies bring back cherished memories of childhood, reminding us of joyful holiday seasons and sweet gatherings.
Vibrant Festivity: With their colorful decorations, they add a pop of joy to your holiday spread and capture the festive spirit beautifully.
Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe ensures that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results without stress.
Crowd-Pleasing Treats: Their soft, cake-like texture is sure to charm family and friends, making them the highlight of any gathering.
Versatile Options: Adapt them for various occasions by changing the shapes or colors-fun for every holiday!
Whether you're hosting a gathering or searching for the perfect treat to share, these Little Debbie Cake Cookies will elevate your holiday baking game!

Little Debbie Cake Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create nostalgic treats!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour - Provides structure to the cookies. Can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Salt - Enhances flavor. Essential for balanced taste.
Baking powder - Leavening agent for a light texture. Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.
Unsalted butter - Adds richness and flavor. Use room temperature for easier mixing.
Granulated sugar - Sweetens the dough and helps create a soft texture.
Egg - Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture. Use room temperature for even mixing.
Vanilla extract - Adds flavor depth. Can substitute with almond extract for a twist.

For the Buttercream Filling

Confectioner's sugar - Used for the buttercream. Sift for a smoother texture.
Heavy whipping cream - Adds creaminess to the buttercream. Can use milk for a lighter option.
Red food gel - For coloring the red buttercream. Liquid food coloring may lead to a thinner buttercream.

For Decoration

Green sugar sprinkles - For decoration. Any color of sprinkles can be used for variations.

Dive into the spirit of holiday baking with these delightful Little Debbie Cake Cookies!

How to Make Little Debbie Cake Cookies

Prepare the Dough:
Whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl, then set aside. In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy-this should take about 2 minutes. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, scraping the bowl to ensure everything blends smoothly. Gradually add the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms, pulling away from the bowl's sides. Roll out the dough between parchment paper to a ¼" thickness and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
Cut and Bake the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Use a cookie cutter to cut out 5" circles, and for half of them, use a tree-shaped cutter. Place the cookies on a baking sheet, spacing them 1.5" apart. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely before decorating.
Prepare the Buttercream:
In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and confectioner's sugar together until they're well combined. Slowly add in the heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy. Stir in a pinch of salt and some vanilla extract. Separate a portion of the buttercream to dye red using food gel.
Assemble the Cookies:
Pipe a generous amount of the white buttercream on the bottom of each whole cookie. Add red stripes and sprinkle colorful green sugar decorations on top before placing a cookie with a tree cutout on top-creating a delightful layered effect!

Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the cookies for an added layer of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Little Debbie Cake Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and soft.

Fridge: For longer preservation, store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use an airtight container to prevent the cookies from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Layer between parchment paper and store in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving. If you prefer them warm, pop in the microwave for about 10 seconds to rejuvenate their soft, deliciousness.

Little Debbie Cake Cookies Variations

Explore the delightful ways to customize these festive cookies and make them truly your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to transform these cookies into a gluten-free sensation everyone can enjoy. These substitutions maintain the cookies' rich flavor while catering to dietary needs.
Almond Twist: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract in the buttercream for a nutty flavor boost. This will create a lovely depth that pairs perfectly with the sweet cookie base.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to half of the cookie dough for a chocolate version of these treats. The rich, deep chocolate flavor will blend beautifully with the creamy filling and vibrant colors.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a warm, spicy touch that will remind you of the holiday season. It adds an aromatic twist that will evoke cozy memories.
Minty Fresh: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract in the buttercream for a festive peppermint flavor. The refreshing taste will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cookies.
Shape It Up: Want to make these cookies even more festive? Use different shaped cookie cutters for various holidays. Hearts for Valentine's Day, pumpkins for Halloween, or stars for New Year's Eve!
Holiday Sprinkles: Switch out the green sprinkles for red, silver, or even gold for a dazzling effect. This simple twist can elevate the festive look and feel of your cookies instantly.
Cream Cheese Filling: For an even creamier filling, substitute some of the butter in the buttercream with cream cheese. This addition brings a tangy flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness.

Expert Tips for Little Debbie Cake Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better texture and even distribution of flavors.
Sift the Sugar: Sifting confectioner's sugar will avoid clumps in the buttercream and help you achieve a smooth, velvety frosting.
Chill for Perfect Shape: Consider chilling the dough after rolling it out to maintain the cookie's shape while baking and prevent spreading.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges to ensure a soft, cake-like center.
Avoid Moisture: Store these Little Debbie Cake Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent decoration from absorbing moisture and bleeding colors.

Make Ahead Options

These Little Debbie Cake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll it out and refrigerate it until ready to bake. The buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days-just make sure to bring it to room temperature and rewhip it before assembling. When you're ready to serve, simply cut, bake, and assemble the cookies. With these make-ahead tips, you can ensure that your holiday baking is stress-free while still creating those delicious nostalgia-filled treats!

What to Serve with Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Cookies?

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful pairings that complement these festive cookies perfectly.

Glasses of Milk: A classic combination that enhances the sugary sweetness while giving a comforting nostalgia to each bite.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Offer a variety of toppings like marshmallows and peppermint; the rich flavors harmonize beautifully with the cookies' vanilla frosting.
Festive Fruit Salad: Colorful berries and citrus add a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of the cookies for a lighter option.

Pairing these cookies with warm drinks or refreshing fruits makes for an enjoyable experience that evokes holiday cheer in every bite.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream can make them feel extra decadent, perfect for cozy gatherings by the fire.
Holiday Punch: Serve with a sparkling cranberry or citrus punch for a festive flair that will keep guests coming back for more.
Cheesecake Bites: The creamy, tangy flavor of mini cheesecakes balances the sweetness, offering a delicious contrast that's sure to impress.

Each idea adds a unique touch, creating a festive, memorable holiday dessert experience!

Little Debbie Cake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for Little Debbie Cake Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for a soft and chewy texture, but if you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute it with gluten-free flour.

How should I store these cookies after baking?
Store your little Debbie Cake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to ensure the container is airtight to keep them soft!

Can I freeze Little Debbie Cake Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before bringing them to room temperature.

What should I do if my buttercream is too thin?
If your buttercream is too thin, add a little more sifted confectioner's sugar until it reaches your desired thickness. If it's too thick, a tablespoon of heavy cream can help smooth it out. Make sure to mix well after each addition!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these cookies contain ingredients like chocolate and sugar which can be harmful to pets. It's best to keep them out of reach and reserve sweet treats just for the humans in your family!

How can I make these cookies more festive for a party?
For a more festive touch, consider using different colored sprinkles or adding edible glitter. You can also customize the shapes for various holidays-hearts for Valentine's and stars for New Year's can add extra cheer!