If you’re looking for a festive and utterly delicious appetizer that will steal the show at your holiday gathering, this Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, golden breadsticks spun into a charming Christmas tree shape, filled with a creamy, garlicky spinach dip that’s bursting with cheesy goodness. It’s fun to make, easy to share, and perfect for creating those memorable moments with friends and family. Plus, it brings together classic flavors everyone loves in a stunning presentation that’s sure to spark plenty of compliments and requests for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe is wonderfully straightforward thanks to a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the creamy cheeses adding luscious texture, to the spices bringing flavorful warmth, and of course, the pizza crust serving as the perfect golden canvas for it all.
- Frozen chopped spinach (12 oz): Make sure it’s thawed and squeezed dry for a dip that won’t be watery.
- Cream cheese (6 oz, softened): Provides that rich, smooth base for the spinach dip.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dip with its irresistible savory aroma.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and sweetness.
- Chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick that warms the palate without overpowering.
- Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little extra seasoning that brightens the dip.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings herbal notes reminiscent of a classic Italian kitchen.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps bind the dip.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, grated): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy stretch.
- Refrigerated pizza crust (1 tube, 13.8 oz): The perfect dough base that bakes up golden and soft.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): For brushing, gives the breadsticks a glossy finish and extra richness.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon) and garlic powder or garlic salt (1/2 teaspoon): Mixed with butter, these seasonings heighten the flavor of the crust.
How to Make Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees. This temperature ensures the breadsticks cook through evenly and develop that perfect golden crust without burning.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Spinach Dip
In a large bowl, combine the thawed, well-drained spinach with softened cream cheese. Beat them until beautifully smooth and blended. Then add minced garlic, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Beat everything together until the mixture is creamy and evenly distributed, creating a flavorful dip that forms the heart of this dish.
Step 3: Shape the Dough into Christmas Trees
Unroll your refrigerated pizza crust onto a piece of parchment paper. Carefully use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into one large triangle shaped like a Christmas tree and two smaller triangles. Move the two smaller pieces together on a second sheet of parchment so their straight edges touch, forming a second large triangle that matches the first in size and shape—this will make layering easier.
Step 4: Layer the Dip and Dough
Spread the creamy spinach dip evenly onto the second triangle of dough. Then gently flip the first triangle on top, sandwiching the spinach dip between two layers of dough. This layering seals in the cheesy spinach goodness as it bakes.
Step 5: Cut the Tree Branches
Make parallel cuts from the edges inward, leaving about an inch of dough intact in the center to form the tree trunk. These cuts create individual “branches” on both left and right sides, which you will later twist to generate the classic Christmas tree effect.
Step 6: Twist the Breadstick Branches
Starting from the top with the shorter slices, twist each branch about halfway around. For the longer branches near the bottom, twist two or three full times. This twisting not only looks festive but helps separate the breadsticks for easy pulling apart after baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your shaped breadstick tree on a baking sheet and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. The goal is a golden brown top with a thoroughly cooked bottom—do not undercook as the center needs to set and the cheese to melt perfectly.
Step 8: Add a Flavorful Finale
While the breadsticks are still warm, melt the butter and stir in garlic salt and Italian seasoning. Brush this savory mixture over the breadsticks generously. This last step adds shine, flavor, and an inviting aroma that will make everyone eager to dig in.
How to Serve Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling a bit of extra grated Parmesan or fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top after baking to add color and a hint of freshness. Little red pepper flakes can add just a touch of festive color and spice for adventurous eaters.
Side Dishes
This Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe shines best accompanied by a crisp green salad lightly tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted veggies. These sides balance the richness of the breadsticks and make for a well-rounded party spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this festive tree on a large wooden board or a festive serving platter with a small bowl of marinara or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. You can also place small decorative ornaments or fairy lights nearby to up the holiday cheer and make your table really pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. Simply cover them tightly to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this breadstick dish before baking by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place the breadsticks in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breadsticks soggy and the cheese less melty.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, sauté it briefly until wilted, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using. This helps maintain the proper texture and prevents the dip from becoming watery.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian as written. Just double-check your cheeses (for animal rennet) if you want to ensure it aligns with your diet, and feel free to use vegetarian-friendly cheese brands.
Can I make the dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach dip mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature and stir well before assembling the breadsticks for even spreading.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Parmesan and mozzarella are the stars here for flavor and meltability. You can experiment with adding a bit of sharp cheddar or fontina for a different twist, but the original combo hits the perfect balance of creamy and savory.
How do I prevent the breadsticks from burning?
Keep a close eye on the breadsticks in the last 10 minutes of baking. If they brown too quickly, tent them loosely with foil to slow the browning while the interior cooks through completely.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about bringing this Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe to the table — it’s not just a dish but an experience filled with festive cheer, cozy flavors, and plenty of smiles. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to add a little extra joy to your winter evenings, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved tradition. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch everyone delight in every cheesy, garlicky, twisted bite!
Print
Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 14 breadsticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These festive Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks combine creamy spinach and cheese filling sandwiched between layers of crispy, golden pizza dough shaped into a beautiful tree form. Perfect as a holiday appetizer, these breadsticks are flavorful, fun to make, and sure to impress guests during the festive season.
Ingredients
Spinach Dip Filling
- 12 oz frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Dough & Topping
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza crust (13.8 oz)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the breadsticks.
- Prepare Spinach Dip: In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed-dry chopped spinach and softened cream cheese. Add minced garlic, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Beat everything together until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended.
- Shape Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust onto a sheet of parchment paper. Using a pizza cutter, cut it into one large triangle shaped like a Christmas tree and two smaller triangles.
- Create Second Triangle: Move the two smaller triangles to a second sheet of parchment paper, placing their straight edges together to form a second triangle of dough that matches the size and shape of the larger one.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the prepared spinach dip evenly across the second triangle. Carefully flip the larger triangle over on top, sandwiching the spinach dip between the two layers of pizza dough.
- Make Cuts: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make cuts from near the center out to the edges on both left and right sides every inch or so, leaving about an inch in the center uncut. This will create slices for twisting.
- Twist Slices: Grab each slice and twist it upwards. The shorter slices at the top are twisted half a turn, while the longer slices at the bottom can be twisted two or three times for a decorative effect.
- Bake: Place the assembled and twisted dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the breadsticks are deeply golden brown on top and fully cooked through on the bottom. Avoid undercooking to ensure a crispy crust.
- Brush with Butter: While the breadsticks bake, melt the butter and mix in garlic salt (or garlic powder) and Italian seasoning. Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, generously brush this mixture over the top to add flavor and shine.
- Serve Warm: Serve the breadsticks warm as a festive and delicious appetizer at your holiday gathering.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze all excess water from the thawed spinach to prevent soggy filling.
- If you prefer a spicier dip, increase the chili powder or add red pepper flakes.
- Use parchment paper for easy transfer and cleanup.
- These breadsticks are best served warm on the day they are made but can be reheated in the oven briefly.
- Substitute dairy-free cheeses and cream cheese if a lactose-free or vegan adaptation is desired.
