Pin 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!
I love serving this at holiday parties because it looks beautiful and everyone enjoys the fresh vegetables paired with creamy dip.
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.
Pin My family always gathers around this platter during the holidays, enjoying both the taste and the festive look together.
Notes
Make it vegan by using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese.
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.
Pin This festive dip platter is a guaranteed hit for any holiday party or family gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the dip's creamy texture?
The dip combines cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar, blended with fresh herbs and garlic for smoothness and rich flavor.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply replace pretzel sticks with gluten-free crackers to maintain texture while avoiding gluten.
- → What vegetables are used for decoration?
Broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, baby carrots, and red bell pepper strips are arranged to represent the tree and its ornaments.
- → Can this dip be prepared in advance?
Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving to keep flavors fresh and the platter visually appealing.
- → Are there alternatives to sour cream for a lighter option?
Plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, providing a lighter texture without sacrificing creaminess.