Step 1

Heat oven to 350°F.

Step 2

Prepare cake batter as directed on package; tint with food coloring. Pour evenly into 2 greased and floured 9-inch round pans.

Step 3

Bake as directed on package. Cool in pans 10 min.; remove to wire racks. Cool completely.

Step 4

Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar with mixer until well blended. Stir in COOL WHIP with whisk. Spread onto tops and sides of cakes.

Step 5

Cut each cake into 8 wedges to resemble Christmas trees. Insert peppermint stick into curved side of each cake for the tree trunk. Decorate with remaining ingredients.