I first conceived this Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe when I wanted a show-stopper that tastes as good as it looks. It marries creamy cheesecake, holiday decorations, and that iconic tree shape—perfect for bringing festive magic to any table.

How To Make A Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe?

Recipe Time & Yield

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake/Rest Time: 1 hour bake + 4 hours chill
Total Time: About 5½ hours (mostly unattended)
Yield: Serves 12 generous slices

Equipment Needed

9‑inch (23 cm) springform pan
Mixing bowls and spatulas
Electric mixer
Piping bag with star tip
Measuring cups & spoons
Optional: deep roasting pan for water bath

Ingredients

Crust

1½ cups graham‑cracker crumbs
6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, room temp (1 pack)
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of fine salt
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Green gel food coloring for that tree hue

Decorative Cake Layer (optional)

10 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, chopped
(This classic touch adds flavor and nostalgia)

Ganache

½ cup cream + ½ cup bittersweet chocolate (for melting)

Toppings

Whipped cream, sprinkles or mini candies, white icing drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163 °C). Mix graham crumbs and melted butter, press into the pan’s bottom, and chill while you prep the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth (low–medium speed). Whip cream separately until soft peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into cheese mixture, keeping it airy.

Step 3: Add the Cake Layer

Pour half the filling into the crust, then press in chopped Little Debbie tree cakes. Top with the remaining filling.

Step 4: Bake in Water Bath

Wrap the springform in foil and set it inside a larger pan. Add hot water halfway up the springform. Bake 60–70 mins until edges set—center will still jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the door cracked for gradual cooling.

Step 5: Chill

Once cooled to room temperature, cover and chill in the fridge at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

Step 6: Ganache & Decorating

Warm cream, pour over chopped chocolate until glossy. Pour over chilled cheesecake. Pipe green whipped cream in tree shape using star tip, decorate with candies, sprinkles, and finish with icing drizzles.

Best 4 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving) of Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe

Calories: ~350 kcal
Fat: 24 g
Carbs: 30 g
Protein: 6 g
(Adapted from Little Debbie versions)

Serving Suggestions Of Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe

Serve with hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine.
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream balances the sweetness.
I love adding a dusting of edible gold or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for extra holiday sparkle.

Tips & Variations Of Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe

Keep It Crack-Free

Bake in a water bath and cool gradually with the oven door slightly ajar—this prevents cracks.

Don’t Overmix

Stop mixing once the ingredients combine to avoid incorporating too much air and a cracked cheesecake.

Make It Less Sweet

Many find the overall sweetness intense. Use less sugar in the filling or skip the ganache to balance flavors.

Variation Ideas

Chocolate Peppermint Tree: Fold in crushed candy canes & drizzle with dark chocolate.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream whip & dairy-free cream cheese.
Mini Trees: Pipe small versions as fun party bites.

Health Benefits Of Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe

Good fats from cream cheese provide satiety.
Calcium and protein from dairy support bone and muscle health.
Portion control helps maintain balance with indulgence at ~350 kcal per slice.

Conclusion

I adore how this Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake transforms any holiday gathering into a festive feast. It’s impressive yet playful, rich yet thoughtfully balanced. With tips to avoid cracks and customize sweetness, you can tailor this dessert to your taste.

I hope this recipe brings joy to your holiday table—bake it for friends, family, or just for yourself. Merry baking, and happy holidays! Thanks for reading this article on Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe.

Christmas Tree Cake Cheesecake Recipe: Best 4 Nutrition Facts