Little Debbie Holiday Magic: Recipes Featuring Festive Merch!
It’s that time of year again! The holidays are just around the corner, and Little Debbie is bringing back its beloved holiday-themed merchandise. But this year, we’re taking it a step further! We’re not just celebrating the return of cozy socks and adorable mugs; we’re celebrating the spirit of the season with delicious, creative recipes inspired by, and even using, the Little Debbie holiday merch. Get ready to unwrap some holiday cheer and bake up some memories!
This blog post is dedicated to all things festive, featuring delectable recipes that incorporate the joy and whimsy of Little Debbie’s holiday merchandise. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these recipes are designed to be fun, accessible, and utterly delicious. So, grab your Little Debbie holiday sweater, put on some festive tunes, and let’s get baking!
## The Little Debbie Holiday Merch Roundup:
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a quick peek at some of the delightful Little Debbie holiday merchandise that’s making a comeback (and potentially inspiring our recipes!). While specific items vary year to year, here are some common favorites to keep an eye out for:
* **Little Debbie Holiday Socks:** Cozy and cute, these socks are perfect for keeping your feet warm while you bake.
* **Little Debbie Holiday Mugs:** Sip your hot cocoa or coffee in style with these festive mugs.
* **Little Debbie Holiday Ornaments:** Decorate your tree with miniature versions of your favorite Little Debbie treats.
* **Little Debbie Holiday Apparel (Sweaters, T-shirts):** Show off your love for Little Debbie with holiday-themed clothing.
* **Little Debbie Holiday Blankets:** Cuddle up on the couch with a warm blanket while enjoying your baked creations.
* **Little Debbie Holiday Gift Sets:** Perfect for gifting to fellow Little Debbie enthusiasts.
Keep an eye on the official Little Debbie website and social media channels for the latest merchandise releases and availability.
## Recipe 1: Little Debbie Christmas Tree Brownie Parfaits
These parfaits are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, showcasing the iconic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. The layers of brownies, creamy filling, and festive sprinkles create a visually stunning and utterly delicious treat.
**Inspired by:** Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and Holiday Mugs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (13×9 inch) brownie mix, prepared according to package directions
* 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 6 Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, crumbled
* Festive sprinkles, for garnish
* Optional: Chocolate syrup, whipped cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Bake the Brownies:** Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. Bake in a 13×9 inch pan and let cool completely. Once cooled, cut the brownies into bite-sized pieces. You can even use a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter to make them extra festive!
2. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
3. **Assemble the Parfaits:** In individual glasses or your Little Debbie holiday mugs, layer the brownie pieces, cream cheese filling, and crumbled Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with a layer of cream cheese filling.
4. **Garnish and Chill:** Sprinkle the tops of the parfaits with festive sprinkles. If desired, drizzle with chocolate syrup or top with whipped cream. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Brownie Parfaits cold and enjoy! These parfaits are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or a special treat for yourself.
## Recipe 2: Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pie Cookie Bars
These cookie bars are a decadent and delicious tribute to the beloved Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies. The soft and chewy oatmeal cookie base, combined with the creamy filling and a drizzle of chocolate, creates a truly irresistible treat.
**Inspired by:** Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pies and Holiday Socks (for cozy baking!).
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Oatmeal Cookie Base:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups rolled oats
* **For the Creme Filling:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 4 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* **For the Chocolate Drizzle (Optional):**
* 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Oatmeal Cookie Base:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Cream the Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add the Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Stir in the Oats:** Stir in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Press Dough into Pan:** Press half of the oatmeal cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer.
8. **Prepare the Creme Filling:** While the cookie base is baking, prepare the creme filling. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the milk and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined.
9. **Bake the Cookie Base:** Bake the oatmeal cookie base in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. Let cool completely in the pan.
10. **Spread the Creme Filling:** Once the cookie base is completely cool, spread the creme filling evenly over the top.
11. **Crumble Remaining Dough (Optional):** For a more rustic look, crumble the remaining oatmeal cookie dough over the creme filling. Alternatively, you can press the remaining dough evenly over the filling for a smoother top layer.
12. **Chill and Cut:** Cover the cookie bars and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.
13. **Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle (Optional):** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookie bars.
14. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Little Debbie Oatmeal Creme Pie Cookie Bars chilled and enjoy! These bars are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holidays.
## Recipe 3: Little Debbie Zebra Cake Hot Chocolate Bombs
These hot chocolate bombs are a fun and interactive way to enjoy a warm and comforting beverage during the holidays. The zebra cake flavor adds a unique and delightful twist to the classic hot chocolate experience.
**Inspired by:** Little Debbie Zebra Cakes and Holiday Ornaments (for a festive presentation!).
**Ingredients:**
* 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 6 Little Debbie Zebra Cakes, finely crumbled
* 2 cups hot chocolate mix
* 1 cup mini marshmallows
* Optional: Sprinkles, edible glitter
**Equipment:**
* Silicone sphere molds (approximately 2.5 inches in diameter)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
2. **Coat the Molds:** Using a spoon or pastry brush, spread a generous layer of melted chocolate evenly over the inside of each silicone sphere mold. Make sure the chocolate is thick enough to create a sturdy shell.
3. **Chill the Molds:** Place the molds in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and hardened.
4. **Remove Chocolate Shells:** Carefully remove the chocolate shells from the molds. If the shells are sticking, gently flex the molds to release them.
5. **Fill the Shells:** Fill half of the chocolate shells with hot chocolate mix, crumbled Little Debbie Zebra Cakes, and mini marshmallows. Add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra sparkle, if desired.
6. **Seal the Bombs:** Warm a plate in the microwave for a few seconds. Gently press the rim of an empty chocolate shell onto the warm plate to slightly melt the edge. Immediately place the melted edge onto a filled chocolate shell, creating a seal. Repeat with the remaining shells.
7. **Smooth the Seams (Optional):** If desired, you can smooth the seams of the hot chocolate bombs with a warm finger or a small spatula.
8. **Chill and Store:** Chill the hot chocolate bombs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to ensure the seal is secure.
9. **Enjoy the Hot Chocolate:** To use the hot chocolate bombs, place one bomb in a mug. Pour 6-8 ounces of hot milk over the bomb. Watch as the chocolate melts and the marshmallows and Zebra Cake pieces are released. Stir well and enjoy!
## Recipe 4: Little Debbie Swiss Roll Yule Log
This impressive dessert is a festive centerpiece for your holiday table. The Little Debbie Swiss Rolls form the base of the yule log, which is then decorated with chocolate frosting, powdered sugar, and festive garnishes to resemble a real log.
**Inspired by:** Little Debbie Swiss Rolls and Holiday Blankets (for cozying up after enjoying!).
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (12 count) Little Debbie Swiss Rolls
* 1 can (16 oz) chocolate frosting
* Powdered sugar, for dusting
* Festive garnishes (e.g., fresh rosemary sprigs, cranberries, candy canes, edible snowflakes)
**Instructions:**
1. **Arrange the Swiss Rolls:** On a serving platter or cake stand, arrange the Little Debbie Swiss Rolls to form the shape of a log. You can use frosting to help hold the rolls together.
2. **Frost the Log:** Generously frost the entire log with chocolate frosting, covering all the Swiss Rolls. Use a fork to create a bark-like texture in the frosting.
3. **Dust with Powdered Sugar:** Lightly dust the yule log with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
4. **Decorate the Log:** Decorate the yule log with festive garnishes such as fresh rosemary sprigs, cranberries, candy canes, and edible snowflakes. Get creative and make it your own!
5. **Chill and Serve:** Chill the yule log in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Slice and serve. This pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot chocolate.
## Recipe 5: Little Debbie Gingerbread Man Fudge
This fudge is a sweet and spicy treat perfect for the holidays. The gingerbread flavor is infused into a creamy fudge base, and then topped with crumbled Little Debbie Gingerbread Men for added flavor and texture.
**Inspired by:** Little Debbie Gingerbread Men and Holiday Apparel (because who doesn’t love a festive baking outfit!).
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 2/3 cup evaporated milk
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
* 1 bag (12 oz) white chocolate chips
* 6 Little Debbie Gingerbread Men, crumbled
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Base:** Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, evaporated milk, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. **Boil and Stir:** Continue to boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 234°F (112°C), which is the soft-ball stage.
4. **Remove from Heat:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
5. **Add Marshmallow Creme and White Chocolate:** Add the marshmallow creme and white chocolate chips to the saucepan and stir until completely melted and smooth.
6. **Stir in Crumbled Gingerbread Men:** Stir in about half of the crumbled Little Debbie Gingerbread Men. Reserve the remaining crumbles for topping.
7. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Top with Gingerbread Men:** Sprinkle the remaining crumbled Little Debbie Gingerbread Men over the top of the fudge.
9. **Chill and Cut:** Cover the fudge and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
## Tips for Baking with Little Debbie Holiday Merch in Mind:
* **Use Holiday Mugs for Serving:** Serve your hot chocolate, coffee, or parfaits in your Little Debbie holiday mugs for an extra festive touch.
* **Wear Your Holiday Apparel:** Get into the holiday spirit by wearing your Little Debbie holiday sweaters or t-shirts while you bake.
* **Decorate with Holiday Ornaments:** Use your Little Debbie holiday ornaments to decorate your baking space or to add a festive touch to your dessert presentations.
* **Cuddle Up with a Holiday Blanket:** After a long day of baking, cuddle up on the couch with your Little Debbie holiday blanket and enjoy your delicious creations.
* **Give the Gift of Baking:** Package your baked goods in festive containers and give them as gifts to friends and family. Include a Little Debbie holiday item, like socks or a mug, for an extra special touch.
* **Get Creative with Presentation:** Use festive sprinkles, edible glitter, and other decorations to make your desserts look as festive as they taste. Think about how the Little Debbie packaging or merch items can inspire your presentation.
## Beyond the Recipes: Celebrating the Spirit of the Season
These recipes are just a starting point. The real magic of the holidays lies in spending time with loved ones, creating memories, and spreading joy. So, gather your friends and family, put on some festive music, and get baking! Let the spirit of Little Debbie and the holiday season inspire you to create delicious and unforgettable treats.
The return of Little Debbie’s holiday merchandise is more than just a marketing campaign; it’s a reminder of the simple joys of the season. It’s about cozy sweaters, warm mugs, and sweet treats shared with loved ones. So, embrace the holiday cheer, get creative in the kitchen, and make this season the most delicious one yet!
We hope you enjoy these recipes and have a wonderful holiday season!