As the holiday season approaches and the scent of pine fills the air, I find myself diving into festive kitchen projects that bring family and friends together. This year, I discovered an absolute showstopper that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat: Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks. Just imagine pulling these golden-brown, tree-shaped breadsticks from the oven, their cheesy, creamy filling oozing ever so slightly as the light catches on the crispy edges.
The best part? This recipe transforms what could be a usual appetizer into a fun and festive centerpiece for your gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply getting cozy for a movie night, these breadsticks are a charming addition that won’t require hours in the kitchen. Plus, they are irresistibly cheesy with a delicious spinach dip hiding inside—guaranteeing they’ll disappear in a flash! Join me in creating this merry treat that’ll become a seasonal favorite for years to come.
Why will you love Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks?
Festive Fun: These breadsticks not only taste great but also bring a playful element to your gatherings.
Irresistible Filling: Packed with creamy spinach dip that melts in your mouth, they’re sure to be a hit among guests.
Quick Prep: With a short prep time, you can whip these up even on busy days.
Perfect for Sharing: Their charming shape encourages everyone to dig in, making them a social snack.
Versatile Appeal: Whether for Christmas, New Year’s, or cozy nights in, these breadsticks fit every occasion effortlessly.
Elevate your gathering with this delightful treat and impress your guests without spending the entire day in the kitchen!
Essential Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza dough – A pound of this versatile dough serves as the perfect base for your festive creation.
For the Spinach Dip Filling
• Frozen spinach – Use thawed, drained spinach for a flavorful, nutritious filling that maintains its shape.
• Cream cheese – This adds a velvety texture that enhances the creaminess of the dip.
• Sour cream – For a tangy kick and added richness in your delightful filling.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave.
• Garlic powder – A dash enhances the flavor and aroma of your breadsticks.
• Salt and pepper – Relish a sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring the flavors together; adjust to taste.
For Assembly
• Egg wash (1 egg, beaten) – This gives the breadsticks a golden, shiny finish that’s irresistible.
• Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle on top for an extra burst of savory goodness.
Get ready to create these magical, festive breadsticks that are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration!
How to Make Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
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Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for baking these scrumptious breadsticks.
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Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, blend the thawed and drained spinach with cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for a nice even thickness for the best results.
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Shape the tree: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into a Christmas tree shape. Create a trunk at the bottom, and make sure to have green tree “branches” on both sides.
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Fill the tree: Spread the spinach dip filling evenly over the tree shape, leaving a small border around the edges. This way, the filling won’t ooze out during baking.
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Fold the dough: Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it in. Pinch and crimp the edges to ensure the filling stays intact while baking.
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Brush with egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it generously over the dough. This gives your breadsticks that beautiful golden hue when baked.
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Sprinkle with Parmesan: Finish by adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor that will make your breadsticks irresistible.
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Bake: Place your creation on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown and crispy.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a festive touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delightful tweaks that enhance flavor, texture, and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free Dough: Swap regular pizza dough for a gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats.
- Add More Greens: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or arugula for an extra pop of color and a fresh flavor twist.
- Cheese Variety: Try using different cheeses such as feta for a tangy bite or cheddar for added richness to your filling.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your breadsticks a cheerful heat that warms the heart.
- Vegan Filling: Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- Stuffing Style: Instead of spreading the filling, place a spoonful onto each individual branch for a more playful, stuffed appearance!
- Pesto Drizzle: Top the breadsticks with a drizzle of pesto before baking; this adds a vibrant finish and bursts with herby flavor.
- Sweet Surprise: For dessert lovers, consider adding sweetened cream cheese with chocolate chips for a festive twist on this savory treat!
Let your imagination run wild and create your own memories with these festive breadsticks!
What to Serve with Crispy Tomato Herb Cheese Pan Pizza?
Elevate your pizza night with delightful sides that perfectly complement each cheesy slice.
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Garlic Knots: These buttery, herb-infused knots add a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy pizza crust. They’re fantastic for dipping into extra marinara.
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Fresh Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the pizza. It’s the perfect contrast on your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of vibrant roasted veggies drizzled in olive oil enhances the meal with earthy flavors. Their caramelized sweetness adds a rustic touch.
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Caprese Skewers: Juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls on skewers provide a burst of freshness that brightens up each bite. These bites are always a hit at gatherings!
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Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy slaw with crunchy cabbage and carrots adds a delightful crunch and balance to the meal, cutting through the richness of the cheese.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can elevate the flavors of your pizza, enhancing the overall dining experience with refreshing notes.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal with warm, gooey cookies for a sweet finish. The homey aroma is the cherry on top of a perfect pizza night.
Gather around the table with these delightful additions and create an unforgettable meal that warms the heart!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on bustling holiday days! You can prepare the spinach dip filling and shape the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the dough, fill it with the prepped mixture, and follow the assembly instructions. For an even easier process, the unbaked shaped breadsticks can be covered and chilled for up to 3 days. Then, brush with egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan just before baking to ensure they come out golden and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
Room Temperature: Store leftover breadsticks in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil to maintain crispness.
Fridge: Keep breadsticks in an airtight container for 3–4 days if you want to extend their freshness. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the breadsticks in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen breadsticks, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes straight from the freezer until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy the delicious Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks any time!
Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks
Dough Handling: Use room temperature pizza dough for easier rolling. Cold dough can be tough to manipulate and shape.
Filling Consistency: Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent a watery filling. Excess moisture can lead to soggy breadsticks.
Egg Wash Magic: Apply the egg wash evenly for a perfect golden-brown finish. Skipping this step may result in pale breadsticks.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with additional seasonings in the filling, like red pepper flakes or herbs, to elevate your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the breadsticks to cool slightly before digging in. This helps retain their shape and makes for easier serving.
Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough is best for breadsticks?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, but homemade dough (if you have the time) provides a fresh flavor. Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easier handling!
How should I store leftover Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks?
I recommend storing your leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
Can I freeze these breadsticks for later?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.
What if my spinach dip filling is too watery?
If you notice your filling is a bit watery, it’s essential to drain your thawed spinach thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can also press the spinach in a clean towel to squeeze out any extra moisture before combining it with the cream cheese and other elements.
Are these breadsticks suitable for vegans?
To make vegan-friendly versions, replace the cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, and opt for vegan cheese. Make sure to adjust your egg wash as well—consider using a mix of plant milk and a dash of flour for a similar glossy finish.
Can I add other ingredients to the spinach dip filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add in other veggies like artichokes or roasted red peppers for a unique flavor. You can even experiment with different cheeses to make a more adventurous filling—just keep the ratios similar for the best texture!
Delicious Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, blend spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the rolled-out dough into a Christmas tree shape, including branches and a trunk.
- Spread the spinach dip filling evenly on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal in, pinching the edges well.
- Brush the dough with the egg wash for a golden hue.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.