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 recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family, loved by kids and adults alike for its fun 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 my family together during the holidays, creating joyful moments as we enjoy making and sharing the festive dip.
Notes
Use any colorful vegetables you prefer radishes snap peas or yellow peppers work well.
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.
Save This dip platter is perfect for bringing holiday cheer and making entertaining effortless.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep the dip from drying out?
Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate until serving to maintain moisture.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip and vegetables up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate. Arrange crackers just before serving to keep them crisp.
- → What are good alternatives for the herbs used?
Fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil can be used in place of chives and dill to vary the flavor while keeping a fresh herbaceous note.
- → How can I make this suitable for vegan diets?
Substitute dairy cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free shredded cheese.
- → What vegetables work best for decorating the tree?
Broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, and baby carrots create the perfect colorful and textured tree ornaments.