Festive, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread is the show-stopping appetizer your holiday table has been waiting for. Imagine tender, golden bread balls stuffed with creamy spinach-artichoke dip, baked into the charming shape of a Christmas tree and brushed with fragrant herbed butter. Each bite delivers the perfect blend of melty cheese, garlicky greens, and pillowy bread—a combination that vanishes quickly at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to wow your guests or simply treat your family to something special, this playful twist on a classic dip transforms snack time into a holiday celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create both comfort and excitement on your holiday table. Every element plays a part, from the rich cheeses to the vibrant greens, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and festive color.
- Refrigerated pizza dough or homemade bread dough (16 ounces): The fluffy, chewy base that holds all the cheesy goodness together—using store-bought dough makes things quick and easy.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Brushed on the dough for a crisp, golden finish and a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
- Frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (1 cup): Adds a pop of green and earthy flavor—make sure to squeeze out excess water to avoid a soggy filling.
- Artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (14 ounces): Bring a subtle tang and texture that balances the richness of the cheeses.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces): The creamy backbone of the dip—let it soften for easy mixing.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess and helps the filling stay extra smooth.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Rounds out the flavor with its signature richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Bold, salty, and nutty, it’s the perfect flavor booster.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Ensures gooey, melty strands in every pull-apart bite.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the dip with that unmistakable, comforting aroma.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every element in the filling.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Brushed on after baking for a glossy, decadent finish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Lends a festive, herby aroma that screams holiday cheer.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, for garnish): A fresh, bright finish that makes your Christmas bread pop.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread
Step 1: Make the Creamy Spinach Artichoke Filling
Start by combining the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, thawed and squeezed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, salt, and black pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture bursting with color and flavor. This filling is the star of Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread, so don’t skimp on mixing—every bite should be loaded with cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Step 2: Shape and Fill the Dough Balls
Take your pizza dough and divide it into roughly 32 equal pieces, rolling each into a 1-inch ball. Flatten each ball gently in your palm, add a generous teaspoon of the spinach artichoke filling to the center, then carefully pinch the edges to seal. Roll the filled dough back into a ball. This is where the magic happens: every ball is stuffed with creamy dip, promising a melty surprise when you pull the bread apart.
Step 3: Assemble Your Christmas Tree
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the filled dough balls on the sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, making sure the balls are touching slightly so they’ll bake up as a pull-apart loaf. This playful presentation is what turns ordinary bread into a festive centerpiece—the signature look of Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread!
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the dough balls with olive oil to encourage a shiny, golden crust. Slide your tray into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the bread is puffed and deeply golden. The aroma of bubbling cheese and toasty bread will fill your kitchen, letting you know it’s nearly time to celebrate.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
As soon as the bread emerges from the oven, mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and brush it generously over the warm tree. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, while the bread is steamy and the filling is irresistibly gooey—bonus points for offering extra dip on the side!
How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant green finish that makes your Christmas tree bread look even more festive. For a little extra sparkle, try a dusting of grated Parmesan or a few pomegranate arils for a pop of red—your Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread will look like it belongs at the center of every holiday celebration.
Side Dishes
Pair this bread with a crisp winter salad, a hearty bowl of soup, or even a simple plate of roasted veggies. Its rich, cheesy filling makes it the perfect companion to lighter sides, giving your guests a well-rounded, satisfying spread. Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread is also delicious alongside a holiday cheese board or as part of a full appetizer buffet.
Creative Ways to Present
While the Christmas tree shape is a showstopper, you can easily shape this bread into a festive wreath or even a star for a different take. Present the bread on a big wooden board, surround it with fresh herbs, and add a small bowl of extra dip in the center for dipping. However you serve it, this bread’s pull-apart style encourages sharing and makes every guest feel the holiday spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the bread cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each bite just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread can be frozen for longer storage. Once baked and cooled, wrap the bread tightly in foil and then in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the bread on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Cover loosely with foil if you’re worried about over-browning. The bread will come out warm and inviting, with the filling just as creamy as when first baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just wilt fresh spinach in a pan, let it cool, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before chopping. You’ll need about 4 cups fresh spinach to yield 1 cup cooked and squeezed dry.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pizza or bread dough. Make sure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the filled dough balls and arrange them on your baking sheet a few hours ahead—just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Brush with olive oil right before baking for the freshest results.
What if I want to use store-bought spinach artichoke dip?
No problem! Using good-quality store-bought dip as the filling is a great time-saver and still delivers loads of flavor. Just spoon about a teaspoon into each dough ball as you would with homemade dip.
Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
Definitely. Since you’re using refrigerated dough or homemade dough that’s already prepared, you don’t need a mixer. All the mixing for the filling can be done easily by hand with a sturdy spoon or spatula.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a festive, delicious way to bring people together, you can’t go wrong with Spinach Artichoke Dip Pull-Apart Christmas Bread. It’s a warm, cheesy delight that turns any gathering into a celebration. Give it a try this season—you’ll find yourself making it year after year, and sharing the joy (and the recipe) with everyone you love!
