Chili Pepper Christmas Tree (Print view)

Creamy dip with chili peppers and fresh herbs shaped into a festive tree presentation.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/2 cup sour cream
03 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 2 tbsp mayonnaise

→ Flavorings

05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
10 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
11 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

→ Decoration & Topping

12 - 2–3 fresh red chili peppers, thinly sliced into rings
13 - 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
14 - 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
15 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
16 - 1 small carrot, sliced into thin strips
17 - Crackers or vegetable sticks, for serving

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar until smooth and creamy.
02 - Mix in minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, chives, and parsley until evenly distributed.
03 - Transfer mixture onto a serving platter and shape into a Christmas tree by forming a wide-based triangle with a pointed top using a spatula.
04 - Adorn the tree with sliced red chili rings as garlands, diced green and yellow bell peppers as ornaments, and sprinkle chopped cilantro for pine needle effect.
05 - Position carrot strips at the base to simulate the trunk of the tree.
06 - Serve immediately alongside crackers or vegetable sticks, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Festive and visually appealing holiday dip
  • Combines creamy texture with spicy chili kick
02 -
  • For extra spice, use hotter chili peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
  • Contains milk (cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise) and possibly eggs in mayonnaise; check labels if sensitive.
03 -
  • Use fresher herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Prepare the dip a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld.
Go Back