Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

This Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Trifle is the perfect balance of creamy layers, sweet cake, and festive holiday colors. The best part? It’s super easy to make!

A glass bowl with Christmas tree cakes, whipped topping, green sprinkles, and sliced strawberries. Holiday-themed packaging displayed in the background.

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Combining nostalgic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes with layers of whipped topping, creamy pudding, and fresh strawberries, this easy-to-make treat is fun, fuss-free, and full of holiday cheer.

Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or a cozy gathering, this trifle is bound to steal the show as the grand finale of your holiday feast.

If you love Trifle recipes, then next you should try this Best Ever Strawberry Trifle or this Carrot Cake Trifle recipe.

Ingredients

This is an overview of the ingredients that you need to make this recipe. You can find the full list of ingredients in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes – These iconic holiday treats bring a delightful sweetness and festive charm. Their bite-sized pieces create the base for the trifle’s irresistible layers.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – The foundation of the trifle’s creamy layers. Choose a high-quality brand to get that rich flavor.
Milk – Essential for preparing your pudding. Use whole milk for a richer and creamier pudding consistency.
Whipped Topping – Adding lightness and fluff to the layers is essential. You can use classic whipped topping or make your own with heavy cream.
Fresh Strawberries – Red, juicy, and slightly tart, fresh strawberries cut through the sweetness and add a pop of color that screams festive spirit.
Green Sugar Sprinkles – No holiday dessert is complete without festive sprinkles. Use green sugar sprinkles to echo the signature look of the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes.
Red Icing – This small but mighty touch ties the whole look together. A few drizzles of red icing on top make for a truly picture-perfect dessert.

Instructions

This is an overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. The full instructions are available in the recipe card.

Mixing bowl with a creamy yellow mixture and dollop of whipped cream, surrounded by bowls of sliced strawberries, whipped cream, and cake pieces.

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thick. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth.

A glass bowl filled with cubed cake and cream, with bowls of sliced strawberries and raspberries in the background.

Step 2: In a large glass trifle dish or individual serving cups, layer a third of the Christmas Tree Cake pieces, followed by a layer of the pudding mixture.

A bowl of sliced strawberries on top of creamy dessert in a glass bowl. Another bowl with similar contents is partially visible in the background.

Step 3: Repeat the layers, adding in the strawberries until all ingredients are used, and end with a pudding layer.

Step 4: Top with the remaining whipped topping. Draw wavy lines over the top with red icing. Sprinkle with green sprinkles if desired, and add a Tree Cake on top. Chill before serving for the best texture.

Storage

Storing – Cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for about 2–3 days. Note that the Christmas tree cakes may absorb moisture over time, so they are best enjoyed soon after making them.

Freezing – Unfortunately, this dessert doesn’t freeze well due to the whipped topping and pudding layers.

Reheating – No reheating necessary—it’s a chilled dessert. Scoop and serve straight from the fridge!

Glass bowl with layered dessert featuring strawberries, whipped cream, and cake pieces. Topped with Christmas tree-shaped cookies. Festive box and greenery in the background.

Wendy’s Tips

Play with Flavors – Add a dollop of cream cheese into the pudding for a cheesecake-like twist your guests will love!
Make it a dip. Is it short on time or not in the mood to layer? Adapt this recipe into a Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Dip. Just mix the pudding and whipped topping together, fold in pieces of cake, and serve with pretzels or graham crackers.
Add Variety – Don’t limit yourself to just Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. Experiment with other holiday treats like gingerbread or sugar cookies, candy canes, or even eggnog for a festive twist.

What To Serve With Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Trifle

Hot cocoa or Caramel Brulee lattes for cozy vibes.

Light snacks like cheese platters or sugar cookies to keep the dessert as the focal point.

Fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to add a bright, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the trifle.

Glass bowl with holiday-themed dessert topped with sliced strawberries and green sprinkles, next to a small plate with decorated treats and a pine branch on a white surface.

FAQs

Can I use other flavors of Christmas Tree Cakes?

Absolutely! Swap out the vanilla cakes for chocolate or fudge options for a deeper flavor profile.

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, the trifle can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it well-covered and refrigerated until serving.