Little Debbie iconic holiday treat turns 40

BACK TO ALL NEWS

Little Debbie iconic holiday treat turns 40

24 Oct 2025

Lily Cota

Lily Cota is a writer, editor and photographer from Kansas City, Missouri. She graduated from Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in English and a minor in Photography. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading fantasy novels, thrifting, trying out local coffee shops and spending time with her nieces.

COLLEGEDALE, TN — Spooky season is in full swing, but many baking companies are getting a jumpstart on winter holiday limited-time offers.

Little Debbie, a brand under the McKee Foods umbrella, is leading the charge with its 40th anniversary launch of the classic Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake, which debuted in 1985.

“For 40 years, the Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake has been more than just a snack — it’s part of the holiday experience,” said Kenny Hammontree, brand manager at Little Debbie. “We’re honored that this treat brings smiles to families year after year.”

Over the years, the snack cake has evolved from its signature yellow cake, creme filling and red and green sprinkles to include different varieties, such as Christmas Tree Cake Brownies, Christmas Tree Cake Donuts and Chocolate Christmas Tree Cake.

This season, in honor of the 40th anniversary, Little Debbie is unveiling updated packaging featuring a Celebration Badge and a new Santa design. New back panel graphics also showcase Christmas Tree Cake cartons through the decades, highlighting the snack’s journey.

The celebration also includes the Little Debbie 40 Days of Christmas Giveaway as a way to encourage consumer engagement with the brand.

Advertisement

BACK TO ALL NEWS