Cheese Wreath
A festive cheese wreath featuring creamy mixture with bacon, green onions, and Parmesan, shaped into a ring. Perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese and salad dressing, mixing until well blended.
- Add remaining ingredients; mix well.
- Chill the mixture.
- Place a drinking glass in the center of a serving platter.
- Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture around the glass to form a ring.
- Shape the mixture with a spatula to form a wreath.
- Remove the glass.
- Garnish the top with chopped parsley to resemble wreath greeneries.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of Miracle Whip salad dressing. You can also substitute the crumbled bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option. Make sure to mix the cream cheese thoroughly to avoid lumps, and chill the mixture for at least an hour for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese wreath is perfect for holiday gatherings or parties. Serve it alongside a variety of crackers, fresh vegetables, or even with a side of Green Beans And Bean Sprouts for a colorful platter. Pairing it with a refreshing drink will enhance the overall experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese wreath tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the shape, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap. To serve again, you can either enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Wreath contains roughly 212 calories, with 12g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese wreath ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese wreath a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, and it will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative. Another option is to use ricotta cheese for a different flavor and texture, but keep in mind that it may alter the consistency of the wreath.
How do I ensure the wreath holds its shape?
To ensure the wreath holds its shape, be sure to chill the mixture thoroughly before shaping it. Use a spatula to mold the mixture around the glass, and after removing it, you can touch up any rough edges to enhance the appearance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).