This appetizer isn’t just about presentation—it’s packed with variety and flavor. With no cooking required, it’s perfect for quick entertaining. You can customize the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, and it’s a great interactive way to get kids or guests involved in holiday fun. Whether served at a party, potluck, or family dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cubed cheddar cheese
Cubed mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
Cherry tomatoes
Broccoli florets
Green olives
Black olives
Sliced cucumbers or pickles
Pretzel sticks or breadsticks (for the tree trunk)
Star-shaped cheese or yellow bell pepper (for the tree topper)
Fresh rosemary or parsley (for garnish and greenery)
Toothpicks (optional, for securing)
Directions
Choose a large cutting board or platter as your base.
Starting at the bottom, arrange a row of broccoli florets in a wide line to form the base of the tree.
Above that, place alternating rows of cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and more broccoli.
Continue layering the ingredients, narrowing the shape as you go to form a triangular, tree-like shape.
Insert fresh rosemary or parsley sprigs in between layers to resemble evergreen branches.
Top the tree with a star cut from yellow bell pepper or a piece of cheese.
Place pretzel sticks or breadsticks at the bottom for the tree trunk.
Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings and timing
Serves 10–12 as an appetizer. Prep time: 20–25 minutes Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Add cured meats like salami for a charcuterie-style version.
Include grapes or dried cranberries for a sweet and savory balance.
Use different cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or brie.
Swap in pickled vegetables or marinated artichokes for extra flavor.
Make a mini version on a small plate for individual servings.
Storage/Reheating
This appetizer is best served fresh. If preparing ahead, store each ingredient separately in airtight containers and assemble just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze. No reheating is necessary or recommended.
FAQs
Can I make this Christmas Tree Appetizer ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the tree just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What kind of cheese should I use?
Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, and gouda are great choices. Use a variety for different colors and flavors.
How do I cut a star for the top?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter on a slice of cheese or bell pepper, or carefully cut one by hand.
What’s the best way to transport it to a party?
Assemble the tree on a sturdy platter and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Alternatively, transport ingredients separately and assemble on-site.
How do I keep the broccoli bright green?
Blanch the florets briefly in boiling water, then shock in ice water to keep them vibrant and tender-crisp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you skip the pretzel sticks or use gluten-free alternatives.
Can I make individual servings?
Yes, create mini trees on small plates using toothpicks or skewers for personalized portions.
What can I use instead of olives?
Try pickles, marinated artichokes, or roasted red peppers if you’re not a fan of olives.
Can I use fresh herbs other than rosemary?
Yes, parsley, thyme, or dill sprigs also work well for a greenery effect.
Conclusion
The Christmas Tree Appetizer is a simple yet stunning way to bring festive flavor and fun to your holiday spread. With endless ways to customize and a presentation that wows, it’s the perfect addition to any celebration. Make it your own with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the holiday cheer in every bite.
This Christmas Tree Appetizer is a fun and festive centerpiece made with layers of cheese, veggies, and savory snacks arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. It’s a colorful, no-cook dish that’s perfect for holiday parties and easy to customize to your liking.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:8–10 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
1 cup cubed mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup green olives
1/2 cup black olives
1 cucumber, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
Fresh rosemary or parsley sprigs (for greenery)
2–3 pretzel rods or breadsticks (for tree trunk)
1 star-shaped slice of yellow bell pepper or cheese (for topper)
Toothpicks (as needed for assembly)
Instructions
On a large platter or cutting board, arrange a row of broccoli florets as the base of the tree.
Above that, alternate rows of cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, green olives, black olives, and cucumber slices, forming a triangular tree shape.
Tuck sprigs of rosemary or parsley between rows to mimic evergreen branches.
Add a star-shaped slice of yellow bell pepper or cheese at the top as a tree topper.
Place pretzel rods or breadsticks at the bottom to resemble the tree trunk.
Secure items with toothpicks as needed to hold the structure together.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Customize with your favorite cheeses, meats, or veggies.Add salami or pepperoni slices for extra flavor.Use mini skewers to make individual servings.Make ahead and refrigerate, then add herbs and topper just before serving.
