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Lightened-Up Christmas Tree Cake Dip: Best Easy Holiday Dessert

lightened-up christmas tree cake dip - featured image

A lightened-up, no-bake dessert dip that captures the nostalgic joy of Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes. Made with cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and marshmallow fluff, this festive green dip is perfect for holiday parties and cookie swaps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Green gel food coloring
  • 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles (jimmies)
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, finely chopped
  • 1 star-shaped sprinkle or candy (optional)
  • Graham crackers, for serving
  • Vanilla wafers, for serving
  • Pretzel sticks, for serving
  • Apple slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take the reduced-fat cream cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting. It should be room temperature. If in a hurry, microwave in 10-second bursts until just softened.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  3. Add the Greek yogurt and beat on low speed until fully combined. The mixture should be silky and smooth.
  4. Add the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium and beat for another minute. Taste and add powdered sugar if desired.
  5. Add green gel food coloring, starting with a tiny drop. Beat on low, then check the color. Repeat until you reach the desired Christmas tree green.
  6. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in about 3 tablespoons of the rainbow sprinkles. Be gentle to avoid dissolving the sprinkles.
  7. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl or platter. Use an offset spatula to shape it into a rough Christmas tree cone—wider at the bottom, tapering to a point at the top.
  8. Sprinkle the chopped white chocolate chips over the top to look like snow. Press a few extra sprinkles into the sides. Top with the star sprinkle or candy.
  9. Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly (optional but recommended). Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, pretzel sticks, or apple slices.

Notes

For best results, use gel food coloring instead of liquid to avoid thinning the dip. The dip can be made up to 3 days ahead; add sprinkles and decorations just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The dip can be frozen for up to a month, though texture may be slightly grainier after thawing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas tree cake dip, lightened-up dessert dip, holiday dip, no-bake dessert, easy holiday recipe, cream cheese dip, marshmallow fluff dip, festive dip