As the holiday season approaches, there's a certain joy that fills the air-it's the perfect time for festive treats that bring warmth to every gathering. Imagine the delightful fusion of creamy cake and chocolatey crunch. That's exactly what you get with these Little Debbie Christmas Cake Balls! Inspired by the classic Holiday Tree Cakes we all adore, this recipe simplifies the process to give you a no-bake dessert that is as easy to make as it is to devour.

Whether you're looking to impress your family at Christmas dinner or need a quick treat for a potluck, I promise these cake balls will become your new go-to. Every bite is a burst of nostalgia wrapped in a gorgeous, sweet coating decorated with festive colors. So gather your ingredients and let's create a holiday treat that's not just about flavor, but also about making delightful memories!

Why will you love this Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe?

Ease of Preparation: These no-bake cake balls take minimal time and effort, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat without any hassle.

Nostalgic Flavor: Featuring the beloved Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, every bite takes you back to childhood holiday memories, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Visually Stunning: The glossy white exterior with colorful decorations is a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests during festive gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with flavors by swapping the cake base or using different candy melts for a personalized twist.

Perfect for Gifts: Pack them up in festive tins for a thoughtful homemade gift, spreading holiday cheer to friends and family!

These delightful treats are perfect for any holiday gathering, and if you're in need of more inspiration, check out our collection of easy no-bake desserts to keep the festive spirit alive!

Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe Ingredients

For the Cake Balls
• Vanilla Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes - The heart of the recipe that delivers delightful flavor and moisture.
• Cream Cheese (1 package, 8 oz) - Adds richness and helps bind the cake balls together; Neufchâtel cheese can be substituted for a lower-fat option.

For the Coating
• White Candy Melts (1 package, 16 oz) - Provide a sweet, smooth exterior; can use white chocolate, but it may require tempering.
• Red Candy Melts (¼ cup, optional) - Perfect for decorative drizzling; feel free to use any color for festive flair.

For the Garnish
• Red and Green Colored Sanding Sugar - Adds a fabulous pop of color and sparkle; substitute with sprinkles if preferred.

With these simple ingredients, your Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe comes to life, promising delightful flavors in every bite!

How to Make Little Debbie Cake Balls

Prepare the Sheet: Start by lining a baking sheet with waxed paper. This will prevent the cake balls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Mix the Base: In a large bowl, beat together the crumbled Vanilla Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and cream cheese until well blended. The mixture should be cohesive, creamy, and ready for rolling!
Form the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each piece between your palms until smooth. Optional: Freeze the balls for about 15 minutes to make coating easier.
Melt the Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white candy melts by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If it's too thick, add a teaspoon of shortening to achieve the desired consistency.
Dip the Balls: Carefully dip each cake ball into the melted candy, ensuring it's fully coated. Tap off any excess candy coating to keep it from pooling at the bottom.
Decorate: Place the coated cake balls on the prepared baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle with colored sanding sugar and drizzle with red candy melts if desired for a festive touch.
Chill and Store: Refrigerate the cake balls for about 1 hour until they are firm. Once set, store them in an airtight container between layers of wax paper in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Optional: For an extra sparkle, you can also add a sprig of edible glitter after drizzling!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! There are countless ways to personalize these delicious cake balls.

Chocolate Swap: Substitute the vanilla Little Debbie cakes with chocolate cake for a richer flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
Red Velvet Twist: Use red velvet Little Debbie cakes for a festive, eye-catching variation. The cream cheese pairs perfectly with the chocolatey notes!
Nutty Delight: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the cake mixture for a satisfying crunch that delivers an extra layer of texture.
Coconut Flake Surprise: Mix in sweetened shredded coconut into the cake mixture to offer a tropical twist that elevates every bite with a nutty edge.
Flavorful Frosting: Add a splash of peppermint extract or almond extract to the cake mixture for a refreshing flavor profile that sings holiday cheer.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the holiday season.
Gourmet Decor: Instead of traditional sanding sugar, try using edible glitter or crushed candy canes for a more gourmet, visually stunning finish.

These variations will make your Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe uniquely yours, bringing joy and surprise to every holiday gathering!

Expert Tips for Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth blend; it helps avoid lumps in your cake ball mixture.
Chill Before Coating: Freeze the rolled cake balls for about 15 minutes to make them easier to dip; this prevents them from falling apart in the melted candy.
Adjusting Coating Consistency: If your white candy melts are too thick, mix in a little coconut oil or shortening to achieve a silky consistency for smoother coating.
Avoid Pooling Candy: After dipping the cake balls, tap off the excess melted candy, preventing it from pooling at the base and ensuring a neat appearance.
Garnishing with Ease: Add toppings like sanding sugar or colored drizzle right after dipping while the coating is still wet to make sure they stick beautifully.

These tips will enhance your Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe experience, ensuring delightful treats that will impress everyone!

What to Serve with Little Debbie Cake Balls?

These festive treats will surely steal the show, so let's create the perfect spread to complement them!

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, velvety drink that balances the sweetness of the cake balls, making every bite even more indulgent.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the cake balls' crunchy coating, creating a delightful dessert duo.
Peppermint Bark: This classic holiday treat brings in a refreshing minty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cake balls.
Festive Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and flavor to your dessert table. Think vibrant pomegranate and tangy citrus!
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai create a cozy atmosphere, and its earthy notes enhance the flavors of the cake balls perfectly.
Nuts and Dried Fruits Platter: A selection of crunchy nuts and chewy dried fruits provides a satisfying texture contrast and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Gingerbread Cookies: These chewy classics with their warm spices complement the cake balls and add a classic holiday touch to your gathering.
Mulled Wine or Cider: Serve this warm beverage for a festive flair that enhances the holiday spirit while providing a cozy complement to your treats.

Storage Tips for Little Debbie Cake Balls

Fridge: Store the cake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Layer with wax paper between to prevent sticking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply transfer the desired amount from the freezer to the fridge and let them thaw for several hours before serving.

Reheating: There's no need to reheat; these Little Debbie cake balls are best enjoyed cold, preserving their delightful texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Little Debbie Cake Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake mixture up to 24 hours in advance, simply mix the crumbled Christmas Tree Cakes and cream cheese, then cover and refrigerate. To maintain their delicious flavor and texture, form the balls and freeze them for up to 3 months if you like; just make sure they're tightly wrapped. When you're ready to serve, dip the frozen cake balls into melted candy coating and decorate them as per the recipe. This method not only saves you time on busy weekends but ensures that your cake balls are just as delightful and festive when the moment arrives!

Little Debbie Cake Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes?
Absolutely! When choosing Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, look for those with a fresh appearance and no signs of damage. Avoid cakes with dark spots or an expired date, as these can affect the flavor and texture. Ideally, they should be soft and moist to ensure the best results in your cake balls.

What is the best way to store Little Debbie Cake Balls?
Very simple! Store your cake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It's a good idea to layer them between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking. If you're planning to enjoy them beyond that, consider freezing!

Can I freeze Little Debbie Cake Balls?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake balls, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax paper. They can be kept like this for up to three months. When you want to indulge, just move them to the fridge for a few hours to thaw.

Why are my cake balls falling apart during coating?
A common troubleshooting point! If your cake balls are crumbling, it often means that they need a bit more binding. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth mixture and consider chilling the rolled balls for about 15 minutes prior to dipping. This will help them hold their shape better.

Are Little Debbie Cake Balls suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very important to consider! These cake balls contain dairy from cream cheese and may pose issues for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. For a lighter version, you could substitute Neufchâtel cheese. As for pets, avoid giving them any cake balls as chocolate can be harmful to dogs. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

Can I customize the decorations?
Of course! Feel free to get creative! Instead of red and green sanding sugar, you could use different colored sprinkles or even finely chopped nuts for added texture. Add your own touch by drizzling other colored candy melts. The more festive, the merrier!