Antipasto Christmas Tree Cheese (Ready-to-Print Version)

Festive cheese ball shaped like a tree, blending cream cheese, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Base

01 - 227 g full-fat cream cheese, softened
02 - 56 g grated Parmesan cheese
03 - 56 g shredded cheddar cheese (preferably orange for decoration)

→ Flavor

04 - 60 mL pesto sauce, store-bought or homemade
05 - 60 mL sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
06 - 1 tsp dried onion powder
07 - 1 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1 tsp dried oregano

→ Decoration

09 - 150 g olives, halved and patted dry
10 - Fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese until smooth. Incorporate grated Parmesan, pesto sauce, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix thoroughly until homogeneous and creamy.
02 - Shape the mixture into a cone on a serving tray lined with parchment paper, resembling a Christmas tree.
03 - Press halved olives and additional chopped sun-dried tomatoes onto the surface of the cone, filling gaps to enhance visual appeal.
04 - Cover the shaped mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to firm up.
05 - Remove from refrigerator and allow to rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. Top with shredded cheddar cheese formed into a star and scatter fresh herbs if desired.
06 - Accompany with an assortment of crackers, breadsticks, and fresh vegetables for serving.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Allowing the cheese ball to soften slightly at room temperature before serving enhances flavor and texture.