What cheeses are used in this dish?

The base combines cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar to create a creamy and flavorful blend.

How is the chili pepper flavor incorporated?

Fresh red chili peppers are sliced and placed on top to add a spicy kick and festive appearance.

Yes, using hotter chili peppers or adding cayenne pepper can increase the heat to your preference.

Diced green and yellow bell peppers act as ornaments, sliced chili rings look like garlands, and carrot strips form the trunk.

It's vegetarian and gluten-free but contains dairy and egg-based mayonnaise; check allergen info accordingly.

The dip takes about 20 minutes to prepare with no cooking time required.

A festive, spicy dip shaped like a Christmas tree, featuring creamy cheese, fresh herbs, and a kick of chili peppers–perfect for holiday gatherings.

This dip has become a staple at our Christmas parties because it brings everyone together with its vibrant look and bold flavors.

Base: 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese softened, 120 g (1/2 cup) sour cream, 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Flavorings: 2 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Decoration & Topping: 2–3 fresh red chili peppers thinly sliced into rings, 1/2 green bell pepper diced, 1/2 yellow bell pepper diced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1 small carrot sliced into thin strips (for the tree trunk), Crackers or vegetable sticks for serving

Step 1:: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 2:: Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, chives, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
Step 3:: Transfer the mixture onto a serving platter. Using a spatula, shape the dip into a Christmas tree form (triangle with a wide base and pointed top).
Step 4:: Decorate the tree with rings of red chili pepper (as garlands), diced green and yellow bell peppers (as ornaments), and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a pine needle effect.
Step 5:: Place carrot strips at the base to resemble the tree trunk.
Step 6:: Serve immediately with crackers or vegetable sticks, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

This dip always brings a festive spirit to family gatherings and gets everyone chatting and nibbling happily.

Pair with assorted crackers, vegetable sticks, or sliced baguette for a delightful holiday appetizer.

Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese to change the flavor profile. Add pomegranate seeds for a bright red ornamental touch.

Cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Shape and decorate just before serving for best presentation.

This eye-catching dip will be the centerpiece of your holiday spread and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

→ What cheeses are used in this dish?: The base combines cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar to create a creamy and flavorful blend.
→ How is the chili pepper flavor incorporated?: Fresh red chili peppers are sliced and placed on top to add a spicy kick and festive appearance.
→ Can I adjust the spice level?: Yes, using hotter chili peppers or adding cayenne pepper can increase the heat to your preference.
→ What garnishes create the Christmas tree look?: Diced green and yellow bell peppers act as ornaments, sliced chili rings look like garlands, and carrot strips form the trunk.
→ Is this suitable for special diets?: It's vegetarian and gluten-free but contains dairy and egg-based mayonnaise; check allergen info accordingly.
→ How long does preparation take?: The dip takes about 20 minutes to prepare with no cooking time required.