Bacon Cheese Wreath

There are many reasons to love a bacon cheese wreath, but let’s start with the obvious: It’s shaped like a wreath and it’s made of cheese—a literal circle of joy. During the festive holiday season, even the politest guests will lose their minds when they realize that the centerpiece is not only edible, but stuffed with bacon. It’s like a cheese ball in wreath form, which you can dress up with your favorite crackers and crudites. Who needs pine needles and ribbon when you can have Parmesan sparkle and cheesy snowdrifts? Between the creaminess, the smoky bacon and the fact that Santa himself would definitely snack on it, this holiday appetizer wins every party before it even starts.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheese Wreath

• Cream cheese: Tangy, softened cream cheese is the canvas that holds everything together.
• Mayonnaise: Use any of the best mayonnaise brands for the best flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, sharp Parmesan adds depth of flavor and a little umami magic to the mix. If you’re feeling fancy, try Parmigiano-Reggiano.
• Sliced green onions: These are optional but definitely recommended. Green onions bring brightness and a pop of color to the creamy mixture.
• Cooked bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon is a star here, and baking bacon is one of the easiest ways to prepare it.
• Italian parsley sprigs and diced pimientos: Fresh Italian parsley and diced pimentos add the green and red flourish that makes this a holiday centerpiece.
• Assorted crackers: You’ll need a sturdy vehicle for scooping, and crackers are the ideal choice. Set out a mix of shapes and textures to make the platter pop.

Directions

Step 1: Mix the filling

In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese and green onions, if you’re using them.

Stir in the crumbled bacon. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for one to two hours.

Editor’s Tip: If you’re prepping ahead, you can make the mixture the day before and chill it overnight.

Step 2: Shape the wreath

Invert a small bowl in the center of a serving platter. Drop the chilled cream cheese mixture by rounded tablespoonfuls around the edge of the bowl to form a ring.

Remove the bowl and smooth the mixture into a wreath shape.

Editor’s Tip: Sculpting your wreath is easier with a spatula or the back of a spoon. To help the wreath maintain its shape, chill the platter for an additional 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

Step 3: Garnish and serve

Garnish your wreath with Italian parsley sprigs and diced pimientos and surround it with an assortment of crackers for serving.

Editor’s Tip: Pimentos and parsley can be arranged to look like holly and berries, but feel free to get creative with your finishing touches.

Bacon Cheese Wreath Variations

• Give it a spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a subtle kick that cuts through the richness.
• Add some ranch: Mix in a tablespoon of ranch dressing mix for a herby, tangy upgrade that tastes like a bacon-ranch dream.
• Choose cheddar: Stir in sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor and an extra pop of color.
• Herb it up: Add chopped chives, dill or thyme to the mix for a fresh, aromatic spin that feels gourmet without the effort.

How to Store Bacon Cheese Wreath

Store leftover bacon cheese wreath in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making this one of those rare party foods that might taste even better the next day. Store the crackers separately so they don’t lose their crunch.

How long does a bacon cheese wreath last?

A bacon cheese wreath will last up to four days in the refrigerator. After that, the texture may change, and the bacon can lose its crispness.

Can you make the bacon cheese wreath ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dip portion a day ahead, refrigerate it, and assemble the wreath on the day you plan to serve. This trick saves time and keeps the presentation fresh.

Bacon Cheese Wreath Tips

What should you serve with a bacon cheese wreath?

Serve the bacon cheese wreath with crackers, pretzels or sliced baguette for scooping. Fresh veggies like celery sticks, bell pepper strips and cucumber rounds are great for dipping too. If you want to go all out, pair it with crowd-pleasing appetizers like crab crescents, turkey meatballs or a gorgeous antipasto platter. And what holiday party is complete without a variety of winter cookies?