Save A festive, savory pull-apart bread shaped like antlers, filled with creamy spinach dip. Perfect for holiday gatherings or themed parties.
I love making this reindeer antler spinach dip ring because it brings cheer to any holiday table and is always a crowd-pleaser with family and friends.
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 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 45–60 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 25–30 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:
- Serve warm. Guests can pull apart the bread and dip as they go!
Pin it This recipe always creates warm family moments when everyone gathers around, sharing stories and laughter as they pull apart the bread ring.
Notes
For a shortcut, use store-bought pizza dough. Add crumbled cooked bacon or artichoke hearts to the dip for extra flavor. Serve with veggie sticks or crackers alongside for more dipping options.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Baking sheet Parchment paper Rolling pin Pastry brush Mixing spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 Total Fat: 15 g Carbohydrates: 38 g Protein: 11 g per serving
Pin it This festive bread ring makes a perfect centerpiece appetizer that will impress guests and bring a joyful touch to any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the dough rises properly?
Use warm water and fresh yeast, mix until smooth, and allow the dough to rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, usually 45–60 minutes.
- → Can I prepare the dip in advance?
Yes, mixing the spinach with cream cheese and seasonings ahead helps flavors meld and makes assembly quicker.
- → What is the best way to shape the antlers?
Divide the dough into two parts, roll one into a ring, then cut and twist the smaller portion into branched shapes to attach securely.
- → How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
Look for a golden brown crust and listen for bubbling spinach filling through the slit on top.
- → Are there any suggested additions to the filling?
Consider adding cooked bacon or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture enhancements.