16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped green olives with pimentos
1/4 cup chopped black olives
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1 thick pretzel rod for the tree trunk
Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices for serving
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula to blend the ingredients until they are completely smooth and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Fold in the crumbled turkey bacon and half of the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Ensure these are mixed well so that every bite of the cheese ball contains a burst of savory flavor. Avoid over-mixing if you want to keep the colors of the ingredients distinct within the white cream cheese.
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on your counter and spoon the cheese mixture onto the center. Use the plastic wrap to help you mold the cheese into a cone shape, resembling a Christmas tree. Once you are happy with the shape, wrap it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up.
While the cheese ball chills, mix the chopped parsley, remaining sun-dried tomatoes, both types of olives, and the red bell pepper in a small bowl. Once the cheese tree is firm, remove the plastic wrap and carefully press the vegetable and herb mixture onto the outside of the cone. Press gently so the toppings stick without flattening the tree shape.
Just before serving, insert a thick pretzel rod into the bottom of the cone to act as the tree trunk. Place the tree upright on a serving platter and surround it with fresh rosemary sprigs to look like evergreen branches. Arrange your favorite crackers around the base and serve immediately.
