What are some good cheese alternatives?

Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier flavor profile.

Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Decorate just before serving to maintain freshness.

Serve with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted bread to complement the creamy and spicy flavors.

Yes, this dip uses dairy and plant-based ingredients, making it vegetarian-friendly but not vegan.

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 always brings joy to our holiday parties and is a fun way to get everyone in the festive spirit.

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 to 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.

Our family enjoys gathering around this dip, sharing laughs and stories every holiday season.

For extra spice, use hotter chili peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.

Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a variety of flavors.

Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a festive red ornament touch.

This chili pepper Christmas tree dip is sure to be a standout at your next holiday gathering.

→ How can I make this dip spicier?: Increase the heat by using hotter chili peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for extra spice.
→ What are some good cheese alternatives?: Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier flavor profile.
→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?: Yes, assemble the dip and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Decorate just before serving to maintain freshness.
→ What are good accompaniments for serving?: Serve with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted bread to complement the creamy and spicy flavors.
→ Is this suitable for vegetarian diets?: Yes, this dip uses dairy and plant-based ingredients, making it vegetarian-friendly but not vegan.