This festive holiday bacon cheese wreath is one of those appetizers that instantly makes a table feel special. Creamy, savory, and packed with smoky bacon and Parmesan, it’s rich without being overwhelming and perfectly scoopable with crackers. The flavor is classic and comforting; tangy cream cheese, salty bacon, and a subtle bite from green onions that keeps every bite balanced.
What really sets this recipe apart is the presentation. Shaped into a wreath and garnished with parsley and pimientos, it looks like you spent far more time on it than you actually did. I’ve brought this to more than one last-minute holiday gathering, and it never fails to get compliments. It’s easy, reliable, and disappears faster than you’d expect.
If you need a quick, festive appetizer that delivers on both looks and flavor, this one is a no-brainer. Love this recipe? Pin it to your Holiday Appetizers board on Pinterest so you don’t lose it.
Festive Holiday Bacon Cheese Wreath
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy10
servings15
minutes1
hour215
kcalA creamy bacon and cheese spread shaped into a festive wreath; perfect for holiday entertaining.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
¼ cup green onions, sliced (optional)
12 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
Parsley sprigs (optional)
Diced pimientos (optional)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and green onions, if using, until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend and the mixture to firm up.
- To shape the wreath, place a small bowl upside down in the center of a serving platter. Spoon the cheese mixture in rounded spoonfuls around the bowl.
- Carefully remove the bowl and smooth the cheese mixture into a wreath shape.
- Garnish with parsley sprigs and diced pimientos to resemble holly and berries, if desired.
- Serve chilled with crackers.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for easy mixing.
- Chill before shaping for cleaner edges.
- Bacon should be well-drained to prevent excess grease.
Nutrition
Estimated Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 215 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Carb: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
Recipe Science
This appetizer relies on fat emulsification and chilling. Cream cheese and mayonnaise form a stable base that holds bacon and cheese evenly in suspension. Chilling firms the fats, allowing the mixture to hold its wreath shape without baking.
Parmesan contributes salt and umami while also helping thicken the spread. Bacon adds both flavor and texture, reinforcing structure once chilled.
Saturated fat and sodium are High (over 20% DV per serving). Serving smaller portions and pairing with lighter appetizers can help balance a holiday spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Presentation: Perfect for holiday tables.
- No-Bake: Simple prep with big visual payoff.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for entertaining.
- Classic Flavors: Bacon and cheese never fail.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time?: Yes; prepare up to 24 hours in advance.
- Can I skip the onions?: Absolutely; the flavor is still great.
- What crackers work best?: Butter crackers, wheat crackers, or pretzel crisps.
Conclusion
This bacon cheese wreath is proof that simple recipes can still feel special. Keep it easy, have fun with the garnish, and enjoy sharing it with people you love. Happy entertaining, and enjoy every creamy, savory bite. What’s your go-to holiday appetizer?
