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My Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks have become legendary at our holiday gatherings. Imagine warm flaky bread twisted into a beautiful tree shape hiding the most incredible creamy spinach filling inside. Every time I bring this to a party people can't believe how festive it looks and it disappears in minutes.
A Show Stopping Party Favorite
I love how this recipe takes simple store bought pizza dough and transforms it into something magical. The filling is rich and cheesy with perfectly seasoned spinach that oozes out with every pull of bread. Best part? It only takes an hour to make but looks like I spent all day in the kitchen.
Everything You Need
- Pizza Dough: Grab a package from the refrigerated section it makes life so much easier.
- Frozen Spinach: Make sure to thaw and squeeze it really dry this is super important.
- Cream Cheese: Let it soften on your counter so it mixes smoothly.
- Garlic: Fresh minced or powder both work great here.
- Cheeses: I use mozzarella and Parmesan for the perfect melt and flavor.
- Seasonings: Italian herbs and garlic salt make everything better.
- Melted Butter: Brushing this on at the end makes it irresistible.
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Creating Your Tree
- Start With The Filling
- Get that spinach super dry then mix it with soft cream cheese garlic both cheeses and seasonings until creamy.
- Shape Your Dough
- Roll the dough into a big rectangle about 10x14 inches. Cut out two matching triangles this will be your tree.
- Build The Layers
- Spread that amazing filling on one triangle top with the other then slice strips from middle to edges. Leave a strip down the center uncut then twist each piece to make branches.
- Time To Bake
- Pop it in at 350°F for 32 minutes until perfectly golden. Brush with butter sprinkle with seasonings and watch everyone's eyes light up.
My Success Secrets
- Dry That Spinach: Squeeze squeeze squeeze. Wet spinach ruins the whole thing.
- Parchment Is Your Friend: Makes moving and shaping the dough so much easier.
- Twist With Purpose: Short pieces get one twist long ones get two. Makes the prettiest tree.
- Check The Bottom: Nobody likes raw dough make sure it's cooked through.
How To Serve It
I love presenting this on my wooden board it looks so rustic and festive. Set out some marinara warm garlic butter or ranch for dipping. The breadsticks taste amazing straight from the oven but they're still delicious at room temp.
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Plan Ahead Tips
- Early Prep: You can shape the whole tree cover it well and keep it in the fridge overnight.
- Leftovers: Pop them in an airtight container they'll stay good for 2 days. Quick warm up in the oven brings them back to life.
- Freeze For Later: The unbaked tree freezes beautifully for a month just add extra baking time.
Quick Answers
- Fresh Spinach OK? Sure just cook it down first and let it cool before mixing in.
- Other Add Ins? Try chopped artichokes crispy bacon or sundried tomatoes they're all amazing.
- No Pizza Dough? Puff pastry or crescent rolls work great too just watch the baking time.
- Sticking Issues? Parchment paper is your best friend here use it every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the spinach dip filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Shape and bake the tree just before serving for the best results.
- → Why do my breadsticks need to be golden brown?
Golden brown color ensures the dough is fully cooked through. Undercooked dough will be gummy inside and won't hold the filling well.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Fresh spinach needs to be cooked and squeezed dry first. Using frozen spinach is easier since it's already chopped and just needs draining.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Make sure to squeeze the spinach very dry and seal the edges of the dough well. Twist the breadsticks firmly to keep the filling contained.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. This keeps the breadsticks crispy and the filling hot without making them tough.