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Spinach and Cheese Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe

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4.6 from 543 reviews

This Spinach and Cheese Christmas Tree Appetizer is a festive and delicious puff pastry creation perfect for holiday gatherings. Filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and flavorful seasonings, these savory puff pastry trees bake to a golden, crispy perfection, making them an eye-catching and tasty treat for your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)

Filling

  • 1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

For Egg Wash

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) following the puff pastry package instructions. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to prepare for baking.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well combined.
  3. Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the two sheets of puff pastry separately. One sheet will serve as the base layer, and the other as the top layer for your pastry tree.
  4. Assemble Layers: Spread the spinach and cheese filling evenly over one sheet of puff pastry, ensuring it reaches all the edges. Sprinkle an additional layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, aligning edges and corners precisely.
  5. Even Out Thickness: Gently roll a rolling pin over the top pastry layer to even out the thickness and seal the edges of the two sheets together securely.
  6. Cut Into Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the layered pastry into 1-inch-wide strips lengthwise for shaping.
  7. Create Christmas Tree Shape: Take each strip and roll it from the wider base to the narrower top to shape it like a Christmas tree. For stability, insert a skewer or toothpick through the center of each roll to hold its shape during baking.
  8. Apply Egg Wash: Place the shaped pastry trees onto the prepared baking sheet. Whisk the egg and lightly brush the tops of each tree with the egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the puff pastry trees are golden, puffed, and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure to thoroughly drain the thawed spinach to prevent sogginess in the filling.
  • You can substitute mozzarella with any other mild melting cheese if desired.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, ensure that the puff pastry and cheese are vegetarian-friendly.
  • Allow the puff pastry to thaw properly as per package instructions for best results.
  • This appetizer is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Keywords: spinach cheese appetizer, puff pastry appetizer, holiday appetizer, Christmas tree appetizer, festive snacks

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/spinach-and-cheese-christmas-tree-appetizer-recipe/