why make this recipe

Spinach Puff Pastry Trees are a fun and delightful treat, perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy snack at home. Their eye-catching shape and delicious filling will impress your family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make, combining the flakiness of puff pastry with the rich flavors of spinach and cheese. These trees not only taste great, but they also bring a festive spirit to your table.

how to make Spinach Puff Pastry Trees

Ingredients:

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry
1/2 cup garlic and herb cream cheese or plain cream cheese with added garlic powder
1/2 cup shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 large egg, beaten
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, and shredded cheese in a bowl. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Stir until evenly blended.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the thawed puff pastry sheet into long strips approximately 1 inch wide.
Roll each pastry strip into a loose spiral, tapering from a broad base to a pointed tip to form a tree shape. Press gently to secure the spiral. Spoon or pipe small amounts of the spinach filling between pastry layers as you roll. Optionally, wrap strips around foil cones for precise shapes.
Arrange the trees on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush lightly with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Allow pastries to cool slightly before removing them from the baking sheet. Serve warm or at room temperature.

how to serve Spinach Puff Pastry Trees

Serve these Spinach Puff Pastry Trees warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair wonderfully with a light dip or sauce for added flavor. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

how to store Spinach Puff Pastry Trees

To store any leftover Spinach Puff Pastry Trees, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen until heated through.

tips to make Spinach Puff Pastry Trees

Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the spinach to prevent sogginess in the pastry.
Experiment with different cheese types to find the flavor combination you love best.
If you want a touch of extra flavor, add some minced garlic or herbs to the spinach filling.

variation

You can create variations of this recipe by adding other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked chicken for a heartier filling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Just sauté it lightly and ensure it’s well-drained before mixing it with the cheese.

Can I prepare these trees in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the trees ahead of time and freeze them. Bake them fresh when needed.

What can I serve with Spinach Puff Pastry Trees?
They go great with dips like tzatziki, ranch, or marinara sauce, as well as fresh salads!