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 has become a holiday favorite in my family, with everyone eagerly reaching for the festive tree every year.
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 Sharing this dip platter each holiday brings back warm memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.
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 This festive dip platter is sure to impress at any holiday gathering and is easy to customize with your favorite veggies.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the creamy dip?
The dip combines cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, fresh chives, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper for a smooth, flavorful base.
- → How is the Christmas tree shape formed?
The dip is spread in a triangular shape on a rectangular platter, then decorated with vegetables to resemble a Christmas tree.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free crackers instead of pretzels for a gluten-free option.
- → What vegetables are recommended for decorating?
Broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, baby carrots, and red bell pepper strips create a colorful, festive appearance.
- → Are there variations suggested for the dip?
For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. Vegan options can be made using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese.