Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks

Emma
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Nothing says holiday cheer quite like this Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks. It’s a show‑stopping centerpiece and an irresistible appetizer wrapped into one festive creation. With layers of creamy spinach and artichoke filling tucked inside soft, golden breadsticks, every bite brings warm, cheesy comfort. This recipe transforms a classic spinach dip into a shareable Christmas tree pull‑apart that guests can’t resist. In this article, you’ll discover the story behind this holiday favorite, a detailed step‑by‑step recipe, creative serving ideas, helpful FAQs, and expert tips to make your presentation sparkle. Let’s bring this delicious holiday masterpiece to life!

Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks

A Holiday Tradition with a Twist

Every family gathering seems to have that one dish everyone looks forward to—the one that anchors the spread and sparks conversation. For me, that dish became the Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks. The first time I prepared it, I remember arranging the dough triangles with care, sculpting them into a festive tree shape that instantly felt magical. As it baked, the kitchen filled with the aroma of garlic, butter, and melting cheese—a promise of cozy, heartwarming flavors to come. When it emerged from the oven, golden and glistening, I knew it was something special.

The pull‑apart nature of the breadsticks made it fun and interactive; everyone gathered around, breaking off pieces filled with creamy spinach and artichoke goodness. That moment sealed its place as a family favorite. Every year since, the Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks has become a must‑have centerpiece on our Christmas table. It’s not only delicious but also brings a touch of creative flair to the season’s celebrations—a comforting yet show‑stopping twist on the traditional spinach dip we all love. It’s a true holiday tradition reborn with a sprinkle of festive imagination.

There’s something universally satisfying about the combination of flaky, buttery bread and gooey, cheesy filling. That’s exactly what makes this Spinach Dip Christmas Tree such a crowd‑pleaser. Every breadstick branch pulls apart easily, revealing warm pockets of spinach‑artichoke filling that ooze with melted mozzarella and cream cheese. It’s festive, interactive, and endlessly shareable—perfect for Christmas party food, family movie nights, or weekend baking sessions when you’re feeling merry.

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Festive Spinach Dip Christmas Tree made of golden breadsticks with melted cheese and artichokes.

Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Nothing says holiday cheer like this Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks. Layers of creamy spinach and artichoke filling wrapped in soft, golden pull-apart breadsticks create a show-stopping centerpiece and irresistible appetizer. Guests will delight in breaking off buttery, garlicky branches to reveal melted cheese and savory spinach inside. This fun, festive recipe is perfect for Christmas parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. In this recipe, you’ll find a step-by-step baking method, make-ahead tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions to ensure your holiday appetizer is both beautiful and delicious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 sheets refrigerated pizza dough (about 1 lb total)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes, parsley sprigs, extra shredded cheese

  • Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

    2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts, sour cream, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.

    3. Unroll one sheet of pizza dough on the prepared sheet and trim into a Christmas tree shape, keeping scraps for branches.

    4. Spread the spinach-artichoke filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at the edges.

    5. Place the second sheet of dough over the filling, matching the tree shape, and seal the edges.

    6. Make parallel 1-inch cuts from each side toward the center, stopping before the middle to form branches.

    7. Twist each dough strip two to three times to expose the filling and create pull-apart branches.

    8. Brush the entire tree with melted butter and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Italian seasoning.

    9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, rotating halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.

    10. Remove from oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25 minutes
    • Category: appetizer
    • Method: baking
    • Cuisine: american

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 pull-apart tree

    Keywords: spinach-artichoke christmas tree dip, breadsticks, christmas appetizer, holiday party food, spinach dip christmas tree, easy christmas party food, christmas potluck ideas, pullapart bread, cheesy dip

    Beyond the flavors, the shape itself wins hearts. Arranged like a Christmas tree and brushed with golden butter, it looks like edible art on the table. Guests love that it doubles as both a centerpiece and appetizer—no extra décor needed. Whether you’re hosting a large holiday dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, the Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks effortlessly elevates your presentation while staying remarkably simple to make. It’s comfort food dressed up for the holidays—a combination of nostalgia, creativity, and pure, cheesy joy shared among friends and family.

    Making the Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip Step‑by‑Step

    Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

    To create the perfect Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks, gather your ingredients and tools before starting. Measurement accuracy and fresh, high‑quality produce make all the difference in flavor and texture.

    IngredientQuantityNotes / Purpose
    Frozen chopped spinach1 cup, thawed and drainedSqueeze out excess moisture
    Canned artichoke hearts1 cup, choppedTangy contrast to creamy filling
    Cream cheese8 oz, softenedBase for smooth texture
    Sour cream¼ cupAdds creamy tang
    Mozzarella cheese1 ½ cups, shreddedStretchy, melty finish
    Parmesan cheese⅓ cup, gratedBoosts flavor depth
    Garlic cloves2, mincedSavory aroma
    Salt & PepperTo tasteBalance flavor
    Refrigerated pizza dough2 sheets (about 1 lb)Main structure for the “tree”
    Unsalted butter3 tbsp, meltedBrush before baking
    Italian seasoning or dried parsley1 tspOptional garnish
    Optional toppingsCherry tomatoes, parsley sprigsDecorative “ornaments”
    • Baking sheet (large, rectangular)
    • Parchment paper
    • Mixing bowls
    • Rolling pin
    • Knife or pizza cutter
    • Pastry brush
    • Measuring cups and spoons

    Easy Step‑by‑Step Preparation Method

    1. Preheat and prepare. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    2. Mix the creamy filling. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, sour cream, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
    3. Shape the dough into a tree. Unroll one sheet of dough and cut into a triangle shape resembling a Christmas tree. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a border. Place the second sheet on top to seal.
    4. Cut and twist the branches. Slice both sides into branches about one inch apart, leaving the center intact. Twist each strip two to three times to reveal the filling.
    5. Brush and finish. Brush melted butter on top and sprinkle with remaining cheese and herbs.
    6. Bake to perfection. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Rotate halfway through for even color.
    7. Cool slightly and serve warm. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a platter. Brush lightly with butter for sheen, if desired.

    Your Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks is now beautifully golden and ready to share. As guests pull apart the buttery branches, creamy spinach‑artichoke layers will appear, making it a guaranteed hit at any holiday celebration.

    Serving and Presentation Tips for Your Christmas Potluck or Party

    Fun Presentation and Dipping Ideas

    When your Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks comes fresh from the oven, serve it on a wide platter or wooden board. Dress it up with touches of color by scattering cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or small parsley sprigs around the base—instant edible ornaments. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a snowy effect.

    Offer ramekins of marinara, ranch, or an extra cheesy sauce alongside for dipping. Drizzle the tree with garlic butter and top with a few basil leaves for a simple yet elegant look. For variety, include small bowls of herb‑infused oil or spicy aioli so guests can explore new flavors. The interactivity makes the Spinach Dip Christmas Tree perfect for group gatherings, drawing everyone to the table.

    This savory showpiece also doubles as décor. Its warm aroma and vibrant appearance create a cozy centerpiece among other easy Christmas party food favorites. Placed in the middle of your festive table, it adds beauty and an irresistible smell of comfort to the season.

    Make‑Ahead Tips and Storing the Leftovers

    To simplify entertaining, assemble your Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks ahead of time. Prepare and shape it up to a day before baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, brush on butter and bake directly following the original instructions.

    You can also make the spinach‑artichoke mixture two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Chilled filling spreads easily and keeps the dough manageable when assembling the Spinach Dip Christmas Tree.

    For leftovers, wrap individual portions in foil and reheat at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid long microwaving—oven reheating keeps the crust crisp and cheese melty. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, freeze for up to one month, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming. Brush with a touch of butter after reheating to restore shine and texture.

    By preparing ahead and using these simple storage tricks, your Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks remains flaky, warm, and flavorful well beyond the party. It’s one of those reliable Christmas side ideas your guests will ask for every year.

    FAQs & Conclusion

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip ahead of time?
    Yes. Assemble the entire Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks and refrigerate up to 24 hours, covered tightly. Brush with butter and bake when ready. The flavor even improves as it chills.

    What kind of cheese works best?
    Use mozzarella for stretch and Parmesan for richness. Blend in white cheddar or Monterey Jack for a sharper bite to keep the Spinach Dip Christmas Tree creamy inside and beautifully browned outside.

    Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
    Yes—puff pastry adds a buttery, crisp texture. Bake for 18–20 minutes and watch closely to prevent over‑browning. It turns the Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks into an elegant, flaky appetizer.

    How do I keep the breadsticks from getting soggy?
    Drain spinach well before mixing and allow the baked tree to rest before cutting. For reheating, always use an oven rather than a microwave to maintain that fresh, crisp finish.

    What’s the best dip for serving alongside it?
    Pair with marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing. You can also set it beside other Christmas party food like veggie trays or cheese boards to round out your spread and highlight the Spinach Dip with Breadsticks flavor.

    Conclusion

    The Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks captures everything wonderful about the season—creativity, comfort, and togetherness. From its creamy filling to the golden pull‑apart crust, every branch invites a shared moment of joy around the table.

    Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively Christmas potluck, this easy‑to‑make centerpiece guarantees smiles and satisfied guests. Simple ingredients, elegant design, and irresistible flavor ensure it will become a cherished holiday favorite among your easy Christmas party food recipes.

    So preheat your oven, roll out the dough, and fill your kitchen with the scent of garlic butter. Your Spinach‑Artichoke Christmas Tree Dip with Breadsticks is ready to spread the warmth and spirit of the holidays, one delicious pull‑apart bite at a time.

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