Prep your pan. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
Lightly grease the sides for easier release.
Make the crust. Stir together crushed wafers, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the crumbs look like wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup. Chill while you make the filling.
Beat the cream cheese. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Scrape the bowl well.
Add sweetness and flavor. Beat in powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth and silky. Scrape the bowl again.
Whip the cream. In a separate, cold bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Do not overbeat.
You want a sturdy, cloud-like texture.
Lighten the filling. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in two additions. Use a spatula and light strokes to keep it airy.
Fold in the cakes. Stir in the chopped Christmas Tree Cakes until evenly distributed. Don’t overmix; you want small chunks throughout for texture.
Layer it up. Spread half the filling over the crust.
Add a layer of whole or halved Christmas Tree Cakes, fitting them snugly. Top with the remaining filling and smooth the surface.
Chill to set. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. The longer chill helps the cheesecake slice cleanly.
Garnish. Run a thin knife around the pan and release the springform.
Top with extra Christmas Tree Cakes, piped whipped cream, and a dusting of green sugar or red gel accents for a festive finish.
Slice and serve. Use a warm, dry knife for neat slices. Wipe between cuts for the cleanest look.