Reindeer Antler Spread (Printable)

A creamy dip centerpiece framed by colorful veggies, crackers, and meats in antler shapes for holiday gatherings.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dip

01 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/2 cup sour cream
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Vegetables

08 - 1 large carrot, cut into thin sticks
09 - 1 red bell pepper, julienned
10 - 1 yellow bell pepper, julienned
11 - 1 cucumber, cut into thin sticks
12 - 1 cup snap peas

→ Crackers & Breads

13 - 1 cup breadsticks, halved
14 - 1 cup assorted crackers

→ Cured Meats (optional)

15 - 3.5 ounces prosciutto or salami, sliced into strips

→ Garnish

16 - Fresh dill sprigs or parsley

# Directions:

01 - Combine cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl; blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a small bowl and place centrally on a large serving platter.
02 - Position carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, cucumber sticks, and snap peas into two symmetrical sweeping curves on either side of the dip to mimic reindeer antlers.
03 - Place breadsticks and assorted crackers intertwined along the vegetable antler lines to enhance texture and presentation.
04 - For a non-vegetarian option, intersperse prosciutto or salami strips among the other components within the antler design.
05 - Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley over the spread to add a festive and aromatic touch.
06 - Present immediately, offering additional crackers alongside for dipping and snacking.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It looks like you spent hours creating something magical, but it actually takes just 25 minutes—the ultimate host secret
  • The contrast between creamy dip and crisp vegetables creates layers of texture that keep people coming back for more
  • It's naturally vegetarian, yet the optional prosciutto makes it feel elegant and celebratory for meat lovers
  • Your guests will photograph it before eating it, and that's always a good sign
02 -
  • Soften your cream cheese before you start mixing—this is non-negotiable for a smooth dip. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy, disappointing texture that no amount of stirring will fix.
  • Arrange your vegetables and crackers right before serving. If you make this more than 30 minutes ahead, the vegetables can start to weep moisture and lose their crispness, which affects both texture and visual appeal.
  • The dip can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator, which means you can do the preparation work without stress. Just assemble the spread itself shortly before guests arrive.
03 -
  • Use a sharp chef's knife and cut your vegetables just before assembling—this keeps everything crisp and prevents them from becoming limp or releasing excess water that could dampen your platter.
  • If you want to prep ahead, store cut vegetables separately in the refrigerator with slightly damp paper towels, then arrange them on the platter within 30 minutes of serving.
  • Make the dip at least a few hours ahead so the flavors have time to meld and marry together. A dip that's sat in the fridge for a few hours always tastes better than one freshly made.
  • If your platter seems sparse, add a second small bowl of dip to another section—it creates visual balance and gives people options for where to eat from.
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