Make Your Own Fresh Dips for Christmas: Savoury and Sweet Treats

I was inspired to research and write this blogpost whilst my wife and I were enjoying some of her homemade dips. Which is a prelude for our Christmas dipping and munching!

The festive season is the perfect time to elevate your snacking game with homemade dips. 

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, putting together a festive grazing board, or simply enjoying a cosy evening by the fire, dips can be the star of the show. 

Here’s how to create both savoury and sweet dips that are fresh, flavourful, and easy to make.

Savoury Dips for Festive Grazing

1. Classic Creamy Hummus

Hummus is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with veggies, crackers, or even warm pitta bread.

Ingredients:

1 can of chickpeas (drained, reserve some liquid)

2 tbsp tahini

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tbsp olive oil

1 garlic clove

½ tsp cumin

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

Add a splash of the reserved chickpea liquid for a creamier consistency.

Garnish with olive oil, smoked paprika, or toasted pine nuts.

2. Herbed Yogurt Dip

A light, tangy option perfect for balancing rich holiday treats.

Ingredients:

200g Greek yoghurt (full fat is better)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp lemon zest

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

Serve chilled with crudités, breadsticks, or roasted potatoes.

3. Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip

This vibrant, flavour-packed dip is sure to stand out on the table.

Ingredients:

2 large roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)

100g feta cheese

1 garlic clove

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Adjust seasoning and drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Sweet Dips for Festive Indulgence

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Dip

Rich and indulgent, this dip pairs wonderfully with fruit or biscuits.

Ingredients:

200g hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)

100g cream cheese (softened)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Serve with strawberries, apple slices, or shortbread.

2. Honey-Cinnamon Yoghurt Dip

Light and refreshing, this dip complements spiced Christmas treats.

Ingredients:

200g Greek yoghurt (Again, full fat is best)

2 tbsp honey

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Stir all ingredients together until well combined.

Serve with gingerbread, fruit, or even mince pies.

3. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Dip

A showstopper dip that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients:

150g cream cheese

50g icing sugar

50g salted caramel sauce

50ml double cream

Instructions:

Beat the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth.

Add the caramel sauce and cream, then mix until fluffy.

Serve with pretzels, digestive biscuits, brownies, or fruit skewers.

Tips for a Perfect Dip Spread

Balance Flavours: Offer a mix of savoury and sweet dips to cater to different tastes.

Presentation: Use festive bowls or platters to add a Christmas touch.

Accompaniments: Provide a variety of dippers like crackers, veggies, fruits, breads, and biscuits.

Make Ahead: Most dips can be prepared a day in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Homemade dips are not only delicious but also a great way to add a personal touch to your Christmas celebrations. With these recipes, you’ll have a selection of fresh, crowd-pleasing options that make the season even more special. Happy dipping and Merry Christmas!