If there’s one show-stopping centerpiece that absolutely everyone flocks to during the holidays, it’s these irresistible Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks. Imagine fluffy, golden bread layered with creamy spinach dip, twisted into festive branches, and baked to bubbling perfection until your kitchen is absolutely overflowing with holiday cheer. Whether you bring it to a family gathering or serve it at a cozy at-home celebration, this pull-apart appetizer never fails to steal the spotlight and spark “oohs” and “aahs”—plus, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to the best Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks lies in a handful of simple, vibrant ingredients that each bring something magical to the party. From the melty cheeses to that fresh burst of spinach and the ever-inviting aroma of garlic, every component makes a noticeable difference in flavor, texture, and festive flair. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil: Just a splash to sauté the garlic and spinach, adding richness and depth from the very start.
- Garlic (minced): Two fresh cloves infuse every bite with aromatic, savory punch you can’t fake.
- Fresh spinach (roughly chopped): The star green gives a beautiful pop of color and freshness—cook it just until wilted for maximum flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): This creates the backbone of our dip, ensuring the filling is luscious and smooth.
- Sour cream: Adds a gentle tang, making the dip wonderfully creamy and light.
- Mayonnaise: A little mayo goes a long way to boost richness—don’t skip it!
- Parmesan cheese (grated): For a salty, nutty touch and a hit of umami, Parmesan is a must.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts like a dream, giving gooey, cheesy goodness throughout each branch.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances every other flavor in the dip.
- Black pepper: A bit of seasoning brings a gentle warmth that balances all the richness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who loves a hint of heat, sprinkle in a little for festive pep.
- Refrigerated pizza dough: The ultimate shortcut for soft, pillowy breadsticks—pre-made dough is fuss-free and bakes up beautifully.
- Egg (beaten): Brushing with egg wash ensures your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks turn sparkling golden.
- Butter (melted): A finishing brush of butter ramps up the flavor and that glorious shine.
- Parsley or red pepper flakes (for garnish): Scatter a bit on top for pops of color that make your Christmas tree look dazzling.
How to Make Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks release perfectly and bake evenly, so you get that gorgeous, golden finish on every branch.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant—about 30 seconds, just enough to wake up your senses. Add the chopped spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s wilted and vivid green (2–3 minutes). Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly; you don’t want your creamy filling to melt before it even gets to the oven!
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Spinach Dip
In a good-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir in the cooled spinach mixture until you have a luxurious, even blend—this is your ultra-creamy, super-flavorful spinach dip filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Tree Shape
Take your refrigerated pizza dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Cut it down the middle vertically, so you have two equal rectangles. Spread your entire spinach dip mixture over one of the rectangles, taking care to get all the way to the edges. Then, gently place the second rectangle of dough on top, pressing lightly to seal.
Step 5: Cut and Twist the Branches
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to carve out a large triangle (this will form the iconic Christmas tree shape) in the dough stack. Save any extra dough for adding branches, a trunk, or fun decorations. On each long side of the triangle, cut horizontal strips about an inch apart—leave a center strip running down the middle for your tree’s “trunk.” Twist each strip outward to resemble festive branches. This step is where the magic (and fun!) really happens, so don’t stress about perfection.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Carefully transfer your twisted tree onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the entire surface with beaten egg so it bakes up glistening and beautifully browned. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and puffy and the cheese is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell downright enchanting!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
As soon as your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks emerge, brush them with melted butter for that extra lusciousness. Finish with a festive sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes for color. Serve them warm and prepare for delighted guests to pull off branch after branch!
How to Serve Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
Garnishes
Dress up your tree with a final flourish! A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, extra red pepper flakes, or even a dusting of grated Parmesan make these Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks look truly magical. For extra holiday sparkle, you can even dot the branches with edible stars or pomegranate seeds if you’re feeling playful.
Side Dishes
Pair your golden, gooey breadsticks with a tangy marinara sauce or creamy ranch for dipping—these sides boost every bite. A simple winter salad or a steaming bowl of tomato soup also makes a lovely companion, balancing the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Set your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks at the center of a festive platter surrounded by colorful veggies (think cherry tomatoes and baby carrots for edible ornaments!). Or, make mini trees for individual servings—so everyone can enjoy their own pull-apart treat. You can even let kids help decorate the “branches” with extra cheese or playful holiday shapes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days—the creamy filling keeps the bread moist, and leftovers are perfect for quick snacks or easy lunches.
Freezing
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these festive breadsticks! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container once cooled. For best results, wrap individual portions to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for about a month, making holiday prep easier than ever.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat your breadsticks in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes (no microwave, if you can help it—it’ll keep the bread crisp). If reheating frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight first. Serve warm and enjoy all the melty, cheesy goodness once again!
FAQs
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The spinach dip can be prepared up to 2 days ahead; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks. Stir it well before spreading for creamy, even results.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
You can! Just thaw 5 ounces of frozen chopped spinach and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding to the sautéed garlic. Excess moisture will make your bread soggy, so press thoroughly with a clean towel.
What if I don’t have pizza dough?
Refrigerated crescent roll dough or even homemade bread dough both work beautifully here. Either option gives that same soft, golden finish—just watch your baking time, as it may vary a little.
How do I keep the breadsticks from unrolling?
Be sure to pinch the ends of each twisted branch firmly before baking, and press gently to help the layers seal. The egg wash also acts as a gentle glue, keeping everything together as it bakes.
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pizza dough and double-check the labels on your dairy products to ensure they’re gluten free. The filling works just the same, so everyone can enjoy these Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks!
Final Thoughts
If you want a holiday appetizer that feels as joyful to make as it is to eat, these Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks are your answer. Their festive look and crowd-pleasing flavor guarantee smiles all around the table. Give them a try this season—you’ll love the way they bring everyone together, branch by cheesy branch!
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Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks are a festive and delicious holiday appetizer that will impress your guests. A flavorful spinach dip is wrapped in pizza dough and baked to golden perfection, shaped like a Christmas tree for a fun and eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Dip:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 oz)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Festive sprinkles of parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat oven to 375°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook spinach: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Prepare dip: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in cooked spinach.
- Assemble breadsticks: Roll out pizza dough, spread spinach dip over half, top with second half, and cut into tree shape. Twist strips to create branches.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.
- Finish: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with parsley or red pepper flakes, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the spinach dip ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
- Serve with marinara or ranch dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
