Save A festive, savory pull-apart bread shaped like antlers, filled with creamy spinach dip. Perfect for holiday gatherings or themed parties.
This is one of my favorite holiday appetizers that always impresses guests with its look and flavor.
Ingredients
- Bread Dough: 500 g all-purpose flour, 1 packet (7 g) instant dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, 250 ml warm water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Spinach Dip: 200 g frozen chopped spinach thawed and squeezed dry, 200 g cream cheese softened, 100 g sour cream, 60 g grated Parmesan cheese, 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Decoration (optional): Cherry tomatoes or olives (for eyes nose)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Dough:
- In a large bowl combine flour yeast sugar and salt Add warm water and olive oil Mix until a dough forms Knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth Place in a greased bowl cover and let rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes until doubled in size
- Prepare the Spinach Dip:
- In a mixing bowl combine cream cheese sour cream Parmesan mozzarella minced garlic salt pepper onion powder and nutmeg Stir in the chopped spinach until well combined Set aside
- Shape the Antler Ring:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper Punch down the risen dough and divide into two portions one for the head ring one for the antlers Roll the larger portion into a thick rope and shape into a ring (about 22 cm diameter) Place on the baking sheet Cut and shape the second portion into antlers (long branched shapes) and attach securely to the ring Carefully cut a slit along the top of the ring (not all the way through) and gently fill with the spinach dip
- Bake:
- Brush dough with beaten egg for a golden finish Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the bread is golden and cooked through and dip is bubbling
- Decorate (optional):
- Place cherry tomatoes or olives as eyes and a nose to complete the reindeer look
- Serve warm:
- Guests can pull apart the bread and dip as they go
Save This recipe became a family tradition that brings joy and smiles at every holiday party.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Baking sheet Parchment paper Rolling pin Pastry brush Mixing spoons
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat flour) dairy (cheese cream cheese sour cream) and egg Check all labels if serving to guests with allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 340 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 11 g (per serving)
Save This festive appetizer is sure to impress and delight your guests at any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the bread to look like antlers?
Divide the dough into two portions; roll one portion into a ring and shape the second into long, branched antlers. Attach the antlers securely to the ring before baking.
- → Can I prepare the spinach dip in advance?
Yes, the spinach dip can be mixed a few hours ahead and refrigerated until ready to assemble and bake.
- → What type of cheese works best in the dip?
A blend of cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses gives a creamy, flavorful texture.
- → How do I ensure the bread remains soft after baking?
Knead the dough thoroughly and allow it to rise properly. Brushing with egg wash before baking helps achieve a tender crust.
- → Are there any suggested garnish options for decoration?
Cherry tomatoes or olives can be used as 'eyes' and 'nose' to complete the festive reindeer look.
- → Can I use store-bought dough to save time?
Absolutely, store-bought pizza dough can be substituted for quicker preparation without sacrificing flavor.