Christmas Pudding Rice Krispie Treats
Festive Christmas Pudding–inspired Rice Krispie treats with dried fruit, warm spices and a chocolate...
60
total time
6
servings
60 kcal
calories
Gathering Ingredients
Gathering ingredients for Christmas Tree Cake Truffles starts with the star of the show: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. These festive treats provide the soft crumb and minty cream filling that become the creamy core of the truffle once crumbled and bound with a touch of cream cheese. Before you begin, lay out all the ingredients and tools you will need so the process remains smooth and enjoyable. For a generous batch that yields about 20 bite sized truffles, assemble the following essentials. You can scale up or down depending on how many truffles you wish to create and how generous you want each piece to be. Key ingredients: - 8 to 10 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, depending on the desired size of each truffle - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, helps with binding and a smoother texture) - 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted, plus extra to taste if needed - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for depth - Pinch of salt to balance sweetness - 1 cup chocolate for coating (semisweet or milk chocolate works well) - Optional coatings and finishes: finely chopped pistachios for tree texture, cocoa powder for a subtle tail, crushed candy cane for a festive crunch, or green candy melts for color and extra tree charm - Garnish ideas: green sugar crystals, edible glitter, red candy berries, or tiny sprinkles to resemble ornaments Tools and setup: a mixing bowl, a sturdy spatula, a microwave safe bowl or double boiler for melting chocolate, parchment paper or a silicone mat, a rimmed baking sheet, a small cookie scoop or tablespoon for even portions, and a sealable container for chilling. When you have everything handy, you are ready to move from crumb to cohesive dough with confidence. If you want dairy free options, you can swap cream cheese for a plant based cream cheese alternative and use dairy free chocolate, though texture and spread may vary slightly. This section is about the ingredients and plating in a way that keeps the truffles delicious, cohesive, and easy to replicate for holiday gatherings.
Preparing the Tree Cake Base
The base of these truffles is built by turning the Christmas Tree Cakes into a fine, workable crumb that can be bound into a smooth dough. The goal is to create a texture that is rich but not crumbly, so the truffles hold their shape when rolled and dipped. Start by removing any frosting or decorative toppers from the cake pieces if you prefer a cleaner flavor base, though this is optional since the cake already has a gentle flavor profile that pairs well with the cream cheese. Place the Christmas Tree Cakes in a food processor and pulse until you achieve a fine, even crumb. If you don’t have a processor, you can crumble the cakes by hand in a sturdy plastic bag with a rolling pin, paying attention to achieve a uniform texture. Next, transfer the crumbs to a large bowl and add the softened cream cheese. The melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla help bind the mixture into a cohesive dough. Use a spatula to combine until the mass comes together and feels like soft clay. If the dough seems too dry, add a teaspoon of heavy cream or a small splash of milk to achieve better binding; if it is too sticky, add a touch more powdered sugar. Chill the dough for 20 to 30 minutes to make rolling easier. Chilling helps you shape the truffles evenly and reduces the chance of cracking when coating with chocolate. Once firm, portion the dough into equal pieces, rolling each between your palms to form smooth spheres or small tree shapes depending on your preference for presentation. Quality control here matters: a uniform ball or mini tree will bake evenly into a polished final product. If you want a more rustic look, you can leave slightly irregular shapes, but consider the coating will hide most imperfections. This phase is all about turning a sweet, airy crumb into a sturdy, rollable dough that shines once dipped in chocolate and decorated for the holidays.
Cream Filling and Binding
Binding the cake crumb with cream cheese creates a creamy center that contrasts perfectly with a crisp chocolate shell. The cream cheese provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the Christmas Tree Cakes and the chocolate coating. After the dough has rested, take small portions and roll them tightly into compact balls or small tree shapes. If you want your truffles to resemble miniature evergreen trees, you can shape them with a small tool or your fingers to mimic the tree silhouette, but keep in mind that the coating can smooth over minor shape imperfections. Place the formed truffles on a parchment lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is key: it helps the truffles keep their shape and prevents the coating from seeping into the center when you dip them into warm chocolate. While chilling, you can prepare the coating station by melting chocolate and setting up any toppings you plan to use. If you are using green candy melts for a tree look, temper them as instructed on the package to ensure a glossy finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar on the finished truffles can mimic a fresh snowfall, adding to the festive appearance. When ready to coat, ensure the truffles are firm. If your dough is too soft, you risk losing the ball shape in the chocolate, so a brief re chill can help. This stage blends the flavors and textures into a creamy center and a perfectly enrobed shell, which is the hallmark of a great truffle. You should now have a cohesive, beautifully shaped collection of truffle centers waiting to be dipped in chocolate and decorated.
Flavor Variations and Texture Tweaks
One of the fantastic aspects of Christmas Tree Cake Truffles is how easily you can customize the flavor profile to suit the occasion or preference. If you wish to amplify the minty note of the original tree cakes, add a few drops of mint extract to the binding mixture; but go easy to avoid an overpowering mint bite. For a chocolate forward version, use dark chocolate coating and a pinch of espresso powder mixed into the melted chocolate to enhance the cocoa flavor without adding extra dairy ingredients. Texture tweaks are equally simple. If you want a crisper bite, roll the finished truffles in finely chopped pistachios, which also lend a subtle color reminiscent of evergreen needles. For a softer texture with a hint of crunch, crush candy cane pieces and press them into the coating after dipping, then let the coating set. You can also incorporate crushed freeze dried raspberries or a sprinkle of orange zest for a surprising but delightful contrast. Whatever you choose, the base remains the same: a cake crumble bound with cream cheese, but the outer layer can be adapted to fit your celebration style. Always taste as you go to ensure balance between sweetness, tang, and chocolate. The goal is a cohesive bite where the center remains creamy and the shell provides a satisfying snap. This section invites you to experiment thoughtfully while preserving the classic charm of the dessert. You will end up with a lineup of truffles that feel custom made for your holiday spread.
Chilling Time and Setting
A steady, patient pause is essential in the truffle making process. After you have formed the truffle centers and coated them with melted chocolate, return the tray to the refrigerator to set. A minimum of 20 to 30 minutes is often enough, but for the very best glossy shell, give the truffles an hour to firm up. The chilling step helps the coating cling to the center and reduces the risk of melting or sliding coating when you handle them later for final decorations. While the truffles chill, prepare your finish options. If you plan to add sugar crystals or powdered sugar dustings, do so just before serving to maintain a crisp, fresh appearance. For a more rustic finish, you can gently roll the coated truffles in your chosen toppings and place them back on parchment to set. If you prefer to present the truffles in a seasonal liner, choose little holiday-themed cups or mini gift boxes to keep them neatly separated and easy to grab. Chilling is the quiet builder of texture, gloss, and effortless presentation. Remember, proper cooling also helps with storage. Once completely set, transfer the truffles to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week, and they can be frozen for longer storage if wrapped securely in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer safe container. Label with the date so you can enjoy them at their freshest, particularly during the busy holiday season.
Cooking Process
The core of this recipe lies in the transformation from a crumbly cake mixture to glossy, bite sized truffles that shine on a dessert platter. Begin by melting your chosen coating: chocolate can be slowly melted in a double boiler or in short bursts in a microwave, stirred until smooth and glossy. If you opt for a two tone effect, you can dip the truffles in white chocolate first and then drizzle with dark chocolate for a festive look. The dipping technique is simple: use a fork or a dipping tool to roll and fully coat each truffle, allowing the excess coating to drip back onto the parchment. Then place the coated truffle back on the tray. If you want a tree shaped silhouette, you can gently shape the center before coating by pinching to form a slight cone. While the coating is still soft, you can press on small decor items such as green sugar crystals or edible glitter to simulate needles and ornaments. The cookies lend themselves to a light mint aroma that pairs beautifully with the chocolate, and you can finish with a gentle dusting of powdered sugar to emulate a snowy finish. Patience is key during this stage. Over dipping can lead to thick shells that mask the creamy center; under dipping can leave the center exposed and prone to crumbling. The right balance results in a truffle with a delicate shell and a luxuriously smooth center that melts in the mouth. Once coated, set the truffles aside to firm up completely before serving or storing.
Final Presentation
The final presentation is where the holiday magic truly comes alive. Arrange the finished Christmas Tree Cake Truffles on a festive platter or wooden board, spaced to allow guests to easily pick them up. For a rustic look, nestle the truffles among sprigs of fresh mint and a few pine needles or rosemary sprigs to mimic a miniature evergreen display. A light dusting of powdered sugar across the top can evoke fresh snow, while a drizzle of white or dark chocolate can create a delicate tree outline for an impressive finish. If you are serving these at a party or an open house, consider arranging a small set of tongs, small skewers, or decorative toothpicks to make grabbing a truffle easy without touching multiple pieces. To elevate the experience, place a small card next to the platter describing the treat and a few serving tips. Suggest pairing options like hot cocoa, vanilla coffee, or spiced tea to enhance the minty chocolate flavor. For gift giving, these truffles pack beautifully in clear treat bags with a festive ribbon, or they can be tucked into a thoughtful gift box. The final presentation is all about inviting your guests to indulge in a bite sized piece of holiday nostalgia and feeling the warmth of a homemade seasonal treat.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Once your truffles are set and ready, think about how you want to serve them. Small, bite sized portions are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a charming addition to a dessert board. Serve these truffles with a cup of mulled wine, a creamy coffee, or a glass of milk for a classic pairing that balances sweetness and minty notes. If you are including multiple variations, consider offering a tasting set with coatings such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, and green candy melt versions to highlight the different textures and flavors. Presentation matters, so consider color and height on your serving platter, perhaps stacking a few on small decorative stands to create visual appeal. Storage wise, these truffles store very well in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer preservation, freeze them after coating and setting, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving. When freezing, wrap each truffle individually in parchment or plastic wrap to avoid sticking and to protect the glossy shell. If you want to reuse any leftover filling, you can crumble it into a trifle or mix into other holiday desserts, though fresh truffles are always the easiest and most impressive choice for guests.
Troubleshooting and Tips
If you encounter issues during the making of these truffles, there are a few quick fixes that will help you achieve professional results. If the dough feels too sticky after binding, chill it longer or dust your hands with a bit of powdered sugar to prevent sticking. If the chocolate coating looks streaky or matte, this can be a sign of too little fat in your coating or humidity in the environment; gently re warm the chocolate and apply a fresh coat after giving it a few minutes to set. For a glossier shell, tempering the chocolate or using a coating with a higher cocoa butter content can yield better gloss. If the center cracks or separates during dipping, it is a sign that the truffles are too cold or the coating is too hot; try dipping at a cooler temperature and rolling again quickly. Always use gloves or utensils to handle the truffles after coating to avoid transferring heat from your hands, which can cause the coating to melt or lose shine. Finally, taste and adjust the balance of sweetness with powdered sugar or vanilla to taste. A little experimentation will help you fine tune the recipe to your personal preference and ensure consistent results every time you make this festive treat.
Best Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Truffles
Turn Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes into festive no bake truffles. Easy, creamy centers coated in chocolate with Christmas vibes.
total time
60
servings
6
calories
60 kcal
ingredients
- 6 Christmas Tree Cakes, crushed into crumbs 🍰🎄
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀🫙
- 2 Tbsp powdered sugar 🍬
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍨
- 1/2 cup melted white chocolate for coating 🍫
- Crushed peppermint candies ❄️🍬
- Pinch of salt 🧂
- Chopped pistachios for garnish (optional) 🌰
instructions
- Crumble the Christmas Tree Cakes into a fine crumb consistency 🍰🎄.
- Beat in the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until a smooth dough forms 🧁.
- Chill the dough 15–20 minutes until firm 🥶.
- Scoop and roll the dough into small balls; place on a parchment-lined tray 🥄.
- Dip each ball into the melted white chocolate to coat; return to the tray 🧊🍫.
- Roll or sprinkle with crushed peppermint and chopped pistachios while coating sets ❄️🥜.
- Refrigerate 30–45 minutes until glossy and firm, then serve chilled 🧊.
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