Cream Cheese, Havarti, and Parmesan Herbed Christmas Tree

This delicious cream cheese-based appetizer is a great addition to any holiday party and is always a hit with guests due to its festive look! I have typically made this recipe for parties with the light or reduced fat options instead of regular and everyone has said it tastes great and looks even better. After the tree has reached desired firmness, set it on your serving platter and top the tree with lemon peel cut into the shape of a star. Serve with your choice of crackers. Triscuits® or Wheat Thins® work great!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Calories: 100 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
• ½ cup shredded Havarti cheese

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Mix cream cheese, Havarti cheese, Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons basil, lemon zest, and garlic together in a bowl. Transfer cream cheese mixture to a piece of plastic wrap. Roll the plastic wrap around cream cheese mixture forming a cone shape, resembling a tree.

Step 2

Stand the 'tree' upright and remove the plastic wrap. Cover the visible portion of the 'tree' with 1/4 cup basil and parsley.

Step 3

Gently wrap the 'tree' with a fresh sheet of plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours.