Pin it A festive, savory pull-apart bread shaped like antlers, filled with creamy spinach dip. Perfect for holiday gatherings or themed parties.
I have made this at several family gatherings and it is always a crowd-pleaser with kids and adults alike.
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 warm:
- Guests can pull apart the bread and dip as they go!
Pin it This recipe always sparks joy at my holiday meals and my kids love pulling the bread apart.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, rolling pin, pastry brush, mixing spoons
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat flour), dairy (cheese, cream cheese, sour cream), and egg. Check all labels if serving to guests with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 340, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 11 g per serving
Pin it 
This festive appetizer adds a charming centerpiece to your holiday spread and delights guests with every pull.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of cheese works best in the spinach filling?
A blend of cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a creamy, flavorful filling with a good melt and tang.
- → Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and let the dough rise earlier, then shape and bake when ready to save time.
- → How do I shape the antlers on the bread?
Use a smaller portion of dough, roll into long strands, and cut slits to create branched antler shapes before attaching to the ring.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve warm so guests can pull apart the bread and enjoy the creamy spinach filling. Pair with veggie sticks or crackers if desired.
- → Can I substitute the herbs and spices in the dip?
Yes, adjust seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and nutmeg to taste, or add extras like cooked bacon or artichokes for variety.