Simplified Christmas Tree Dip (Printable version)

Creamy herb dip shaped like a Christmas tree, surrounded by fresh vegetables and crackers. Easy holiday appetizer.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dip

01 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/2 cup sour cream
03 - 1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
06 - 1 garlic clove, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Vegetables

09 - 1 cup broccoli florets
10 - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
11 - 1/2 cup cucumber slices
12 - 1/2 cup baby carrots, sliced lengthwise
13 - 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips

→ Extras

14 - 1/2 cup small pretzel sticks or gluten-free crackers
15 - 1/4 cup pitted black olives (for decoration)

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, chives, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and uniformly mixed.
02 - Spread the dip evenly on a large rectangular platter in a triangle shape approximately 12 inches tall, representing a Christmas tree.
03 - Layer broccoli florets over the dip to emulate pine needles covering the tree.
04 - Arrange cherry tomato halves, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips to mimic Christmas tree ornaments.
05 - Place the baby carrot slices at the base of the dip to represent the tree trunk.
06 - Surround the base of the tree with pretzel sticks or gluten-free crackers to resemble gifts and provide dipping options.
07 - Use pitted black olives to create a star atop the tree or add additional decorative elements as desired.
08 - Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to two hours prior to serving for optimal freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Festive and colorful presentation
  • Easy to prepare and customizable
02 -
  • For a lighter dip, substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream.
  • Use any colorful vegetables you prefer—radishes, snap peas, or yellow peppers work well.
03 -
  • Chill the dip before spreading to make it easier to shape.
  • Use a sharp knife to slice vegetables thinly for best decoration results.
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