Pin It A festive and fun appetizer featuring a cheerful snowman made from creamy dip and fresh, colorful vegetables—perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.
This recipe always brings joy to our holiday table and is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- For the Snowman Dip: 1 ½ cups (340 g) cream cheese, softened, ¾ cup (170 g) sour cream, ¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- For Decoration & Platter: 1 small carrot (for nose and scarf), 2 black olives (for eyes and buttons), 1 red bell pepper (for scarf), 1 cucumber, sliced, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 cup cauliflower florets, 1 cup snap peas, Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish), Crackers or pita chips (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chives until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2:
- Divide the dip into two portions shape one larger ball for the snowmans body and one smaller ball for the head. Place them on a large serving platter forming the snowman shape.
- Step 3:
- Slice a round from the carrot to make the nose. Use black olives to make eyes and buttons. Cut strips from the red bell pepper to form a scarf.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and snap peas around the snowman dip to create a colorful veggie platter.
- Step 5:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve with crackers or pita chips on the side.
Pin It This platter always sparks smiles during family gatherings and is loved by children for its playful presentation.
Tips for Serving
Serve immediately for best freshness or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Vegan Variations
Use plant-based cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise to make this dip vegan friendly without sacrificing taste.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and eggs unless using vegan substitutes. Check crackers for gluten if serving to those with sensitivities.
Pin It This cheerful dip platter is sure to brighten any celebration with its colorful presentation and delicious flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the dip into a snowman?
Divide the creamy dip into two portions; form one large ball for the body and a smaller one for the head. Place them stacked on a platter to resemble a snowman shape.
- → What vegetables work best for decorating the snowman?
Use small carrot slices for the nose, black olives for eyes and buttons, and red bell pepper strips to create a scarf. Fresh herbs can add garnishing touches.
- → Can I prepare the dip in advance?
Yes, the dip can be mixed and shaped a few hours ahead; keep it refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and firmness.
- → Are there alternatives for a vegan version?
Substitute cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version.
- → What are suitable dipping accompaniments besides vegetables?
Crackers, pita chips, or sturdy bread slices complement the dip well and add a crunchy texture contrast.
- → How can I enhance the dip’s flavor?
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten and deepen the dip’s flavor profile.