1-First Step: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin. From the recipe summary, you might also use an 18 x 13-inch pan, spraying it with cooking spray and lining with parchment. Measure ingredients accurately to focus on precise mise en place for your copycat chocolate Little Debbie tree cakes.

2-Second Step: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120 g) flour, 1/3 cup (35 g) unsweetened cocoa, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and optional 2 tbsp instant espresso powder. This step ensures a smooth batter for your homemade tree cakes.

3-Third Step: In another bowl, beat 1 large egg, 1 cup (200 g) sugar, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 1/4 cup (60 ml) oil or melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth. For the cake from the summary, cream unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar until fluffy, then add large eggs and egg whites one at a time.

4-Fourth Through Ninth Steps: Fold wet and dry ingredients gently, pour batter into the pan, and bake for 12 18 minutes. Cool, shape, prepare the chocolate coating by melting 4 oz (115 g) semi-sweet chocolate, coat the cakes, and let them set. For the filling, beat softened unsalted butter with marshmallow fluff, add powdered sugar, vanilla, milk or heavy cream, and salt, then pipe it in. Chill the cake for 15-20 minutes before cutting, as per the tips.