Chicken Crimpy Christmas tree dip set to turn heads

Oh, Crimpy Christmas tree, oh, Crimpy Christmas tree - how do we make thee? This incredible festive centrepiece is not only simple to create - it tastes amazing.

Julia Tanevski

2 min read

December 23, 2023 - 5:00AM

Recipes

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There’s no better way to set the tone for your Christmas celebration than with a seriously show-stopping dip.

So what did we do?

We took a staple party food dish (crackers and dip), and gave it a ‘main character’ makeover. Think Arnott’s Chicken Crimpy Shapes, bacon, cream cheese and a drizzle of maple syrup, all towered into a tall, impressive and insanely delicious Christmas tree.

It has literally changed the festive finger food game for good!

So, if you want to leave a lasting impression with Christmas guests, look no further than the Chicken Crimpy Christmas tree.

Who knew Chicken Crimpy snacks could be so versatile?

Chicken Crimpy Christmas tree dip

Ingredients

400g middle bacon rashers, trimmed

2 tsp extra virgin olive oil

1kg cream cheese, softened

1 tbsp smoked paprika

2 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 cup grated tasty cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives

100g box (8 packets) mini Chicken Crimpys

Maple syrup, to drizzle

Extra chopped fresh chives, to serve

Method

Step 1: Using a 6cm star cutter, cut a star from bacon . Finely chop remaining bacon. Heat oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Cook bacon star, turning, for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden. Set aside. Add chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until browned. Set aside to cool. Refrigerate bacon star and 1/4 of the chopped bacon until required.

Step 2: Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese , paprika , onion and garlic powders together until smooth and combined. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in grated cheeses , chives and remaining bacon. Mix well. Cover. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours or until firm enough to shape.

Step 3: Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Turn cheese mixture onto plastic. Using clean hands and plastic wrap, form mixture into a tree shape (base of tree will need to be about 15cm in diameter). Place on a serving platter.

Step 4: Using picture as a guide, push chicken Crimpys into cheese mixture. Top with bacon star. Drizzle lightly with maple syrup . Sprinkle with reserved chopped bacon and extra chives. Serve.

Notes: This recipe requires 1 to 2 hours of refrigeration. You’ll need a 6cm star cutter for this recipe.

Impress your loved ones with this Chicken Crimpy Christmas tree.

But wait… a SUSHI Christmas tree also exists!

Hey, sushi lovers! We’ve just made a literal tower of homemade sushi, and yes, it looks just like a Christmas tree. They’re light, fresh and perfect for a festive celebration down-under. Found out how to make it here!

What are good finger foods for a party?

If it’s small, bite-sized and delicious, it’s perfect for a Christmas party. Some of our faves include these maple bacon Christmas trees, turkey, cranberry and brie sausage roll bags, and pea and ham croquettes with fiery aioli.

What is a good food to take to a Christmas party?

We all have that sense of panic when asked to bring a plate to Christmas lunch. But don’t worry, because we’ve put together a list of all the best festive dishes that are easy to transport from point A, to B. Whether it’s an apricot chicken cob loaf, cheese fondue balls, or prosciutto-wrapped haloumi sticks, we’ve got you covered with our one-stop gallery.