Description
This Spinach Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a festive, flaky, and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s shaped like a Christmas tree and filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture that’s irresistible for guests of all ages.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
1 garlic clove, minced
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes
For the Pastry:
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (store-bought is fine)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Garnish:
Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
Cherry tomatoes or pomegranate seeds (for decoration)
Instructions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds.
2. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Let it cool slightly.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Roll out both puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
6. Place one sheet on parchment paper and spread the spinach mixture evenly on top, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Place the second pastry sheet on top and gently press to seal.
8. Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into a large Christmas tree shape (triangle with a trunk).
9. Slice “branches” on each side of the tree, about 1 inch apart, leaving the center intact.
10. Twist each branch gently 1–2 times to create a spiral effect.
11. Brush the entire tree with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning if desired.
12. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
13. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with cherry tomatoes or pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.
Notes
You can prepare the tree up to a day in advance store it in the fridge and bake fresh before serving.
Try adding chopped artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a flavor twist.
Serve with marinara or ranch dipping sauce for an extra treat.
Perfect centerpiece for Christmas brunch or dinner!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Appetizer, Holiday Recipes, Christmas
- Method: Baking, Oven
- Cuisine: American, European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Spinach Puff Pastry Christmas Tree, Holiday Appetizer, Christmas Recipe, Savory Pastry, Party Snack
