Description
A festive and delicious holiday appetizer, these Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks combine creamy spinach dip with golden, buttery breadsticks in a fun Christmas tree shape. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
For the Spinach Dip:
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 (13.8-ounce) can refrigerated pizza dough or homemade pizza dough
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
. Prepare the Spinach Dip
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
2. Shape the Christmas Tree
Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Cut the dough in half vertically to create two equal rectangles. Spread the spinach dip evenly over one rectangle. Place the second rectangle of dough on top, pressing gently to seal. Cut into a rough Christmas tree shape, with a large triangle for the tree and a small rectangle for the trunk. Cut horizontal slits on both sides of the triangle, leaving the center intact, then twist each strip to create a spiral effect.
3. Bake the Breadsticks
Brush the tree with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Cheese Lovers’ Version: Add cheddar or Gruyère for extra cheesiness.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
- Puff Pastry Alternative: Use puff pastry instead of pizza dough for a flakier texture.
- Meat Option: Add crumbled cooked bacon or sausage to the filling.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Christmas appetizer, spinach dip breadsticks, holiday party food, festive breadsticks, Christmas tree snack