Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring a creamy herb dip surrounded by fresh vegetables and crackers, arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
This dip platter became a holiday hit the first time I served it; everyone loved the creative tree shape and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Dip: 1 cup (225 g) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream, 1/2 cup (60 g) finely shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill), 1 garlic clove minced, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetables: 1 cup broccoli florets, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1/2 cup cucumber slices, 1/2 cup baby carrots sliced lengthwise, 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
- Extras: 1/2 cup small pretzel sticks or gluten-free crackers, 1/4 cup pitted black olives (for decoration)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese sour cream cheddar chives dill garlic salt and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2:
- On a large rectangular platter spread the dip in a triangle forming the shape of a Christmas tree (about 12 inches tall).
- Step 3:
- Arrange broccoli florets over the dip to mimic pine needles.
- Step 4:
- Decorate the tree with cherry tomato halves cucumber slices and red bell pepper strips as ornaments.
- Step 5:
- Place carrot slices at the base as the tree trunk.
- Step 6:
- Add pretzel sticks or crackers around the edge as gifts or for dipping.
- Step 7:
- Use black olives to create a star at the top or additional decorations as desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save This recipe always brings family and friends together creating joyful holiday moments around the table.
Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, large serving platter, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream cheddar) For gluten-free use gluten-free crackers instead of pretzel sticks Check ingredient labels for hidden allergens if serving guests with sensitivities
Nutritional Information
Calories 170 Total Fat 12 g Carbohydrates 9 g Protein 4 g per serving
Save A perfect appetizer to impress guests and celebrate the holiday spirit.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the dip fresh before serving?
Refrigerate the dip platter for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness and firmness.
- → Can I substitute the vegetables used for decoration?
Yes, colorful options like radishes, snap peas, or yellow peppers work well and add variety.
- → What can I use as a vegan alternative for the creamy base?
Try dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based sour cream substitutes for a vegan version.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the crackers?
Use gluten-free crackers instead of pretzel sticks to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → How do the fresh herbs enhance the dip?
Fresh chives and dill add bright, aromatic notes that complement the creamy cheeses and garlic.