Get ready to transform your holiday party with the most Instagram-worthy appetizer that's as delicious as it is stunning! Imagine a creamy, herbaceous Christmas tree made entirely of pesto-infused cream cheese, adorned with vibrant cherry tomato "ornaments" and sprinkled with crunchy pine nuts. This show-stopping appetizer isn't just a dish—it's a conversation starter that will have your guests talking long after the last cracker is dipped. Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned host, this recipe promises to add a dash of whimsy and a whole lot of flavor to your holiday spread.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 package crackers
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of pesto, a package of your favorite crackers, 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and pesto. Use a hand mixer or a spatula to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- On a large serving platter or board, spread the pesto cream cheese mixture into the shape of a Christmas tree. You can create the tree shape by forming a triangle with the base wider than the top. Use a spatula to smooth the edges for a more polished look.
- Once the tree shape is formed, take the package of crackers and arrange them around the base of the tree. This will serve as the "ground" and provide a crunchy element to your appetizer.
- Next, take the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Arrange the halved tomatoes on the tree to resemble ornaments. You can place them randomly or create a pattern for a more festive look.
- Sprinkle the pine nuts over the pesto cream cheese tree to add texture and a nutty flavor. These can act as additional decorations or "ornaments" on your tree.
- Finally, garnish the top of the tree with fresh basil leaves, placing them at the peak to resemble a star or simply adding them around the tree for extra color and freshness.
- Your Pesto and Cream Cheese Christmas Tree Appetizer is now ready to serve! Enjoy it with the crackers and watch your guests delight in this festive and delicious treat.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese is perfectly softened at room temperature for smooth, easy blending with pesto.
- Artistic Arrangement: Use a spatula or offset knife to create clean, sharp edges when forming your tree shape for a professional look.
- Tomato Decoration: Choose cherry tomatoes in different shades of red for a more dynamic, colorful "ornament" effect.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this appetizer up to 4 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator, adding the pine nuts and basil just before serving.
- Cracker Selection: Choose sturdy, neutral-flavored crackers that won't compete with the pesto cream cheese's rich flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don't be shy with fresh basil leaves—they add a pop of green and enhance the appetizer's festive appearance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
