The holiday season calls for impressive yet easy-to-make dishes, and the Appetizer Wreath is a perfect choice. This stunning presentation combines delicious flavors with an eye-catching design, making it an ideal centerpiece for your festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or contributing to a potluck, this appetizer is sure to impress your guests while being incredibly simple to assemble.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crescent roll base: Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles in a circular shape on the baking sheet, overlapping the edges slightly to create a wreath form. Press the seams together lightly.
- Bake the wreath base: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let it cool completely.
- Make the spread: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the wreath: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crescent roll base.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the chopped broccoli, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Decorate: Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs around the edges of the wreath to resemble greenery, enhancing the festive look.
- Serve immediately or chill: The appetizer can be served right away or refrigerated for up to an hour before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Slice the appetizer wreath into individual portions for easy serving. It pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or a festive punch.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, cover the wreath with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep any toppings that may soften separate and add them back before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the Appetizer Wreath ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the crescent roll base and prepare the cream cheese spread a day in advance. Assemble the toppings just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
2. What can I use as a substitute for crescent roll dough?
Puff pastry or a pre-made pizza dough can be excellent substitutes for the crescent roll dough. Adjust the baking time as needed.
3. Are there alternative toppings I can use?
Absolutely! Consider using diced cucumbers, cherry tomato halves, or olives for a different flavor profile and vibrant color palette.
4. How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. If you wish to make it vegan, opt for dairy-free cream cheese and omit the cheddar cheese.
PrintAppetizer Wreath
This festive appetizer wreath is the perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Guests can nibble their way through a variety of flavors while admiring the holiday-inspired presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assemble
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Base:
- 1 large circular serving tray
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (enough to create a wreath shape)
- Vegetables and Dip:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper slices
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper slices
- 1 cup ranch or hummus dip (optional)
- Cheese & Extras:
- 1/2 cup cubed cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella or bocconcini balls
- 1/4 cup olives (green and black mixed)
- 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts (optional for garnish)
- Garnish:
- Pomegranate seeds for a pop of color
- Extra rosemary sprigs or thyme for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Arrange fresh rosemary sprigs in a circular pattern on your serving tray to resemble a wreath. Ensure the sprigs are thick and evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Vegetables: Neatly arrange the vegetables around the wreath, creating sections for each type. Alternate colors for a vibrant presentation.
- Add the Cheese and Extras: Scatter cheese cubes, bocconcini balls, and olives among the vegetables. Add nuts if desired for texture.
- Decorate the Wreath: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the vegetables for a festive look. Tuck additional rosemary sprigs or thyme around the edges.
- Serve with Dip: Place the ranch or hummus dip in a bowl in the center of the wreath or serve it on the side.
- Optional: Keep chilled until ready to serve to ensure vegetables and cheese stay fresh.
Notes
- Swap veggies for your favorites or what’s in season.
- This can be made a few hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate until serving.