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Spinach Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe

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This festive Spinach Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a delightful and shareable appetizer perfect for holiday parties. Layers of creamy spinach and cheese filling are sandwiched between golden, flaky puff pastry sheets, shaped into a beautiful tree with twisted branches, then brushed with garlic butter and baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Spinach Filling

  • 1 10 oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Puff Pastry and Topping

  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Make the spinach filling: In a medium bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well blended.
  2. Prepare for assembly: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
  3. Shape the base layer: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a large triangle shape. Transfer this triangle onto the prepared baking sheet; this will form the base of your Christmas tree.
  4. Add the filling: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry triangle, leaving edges clear to seal later.
  5. Add the top layer: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry, cut it into a matching large triangle, and carefully place it over the filling. Trim the edges so both layers align perfectly.
  6. Create the branches: Using a sharp knife, make horizontal cuts on both sides of the pastry triangle, keeping a solid strip down the center that imitates the tree trunk. Gently twist each cut strip a few times to resemble tree branches.
  7. Brush with garlic butter: Mix melted butter with garlic powder, then brush this mixture generously over the entire puff pastry to achieve a golden, flavorful crust.
  8. Bake: Place the assembled pastry tree in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the puff pastry rises and turns a beautiful golden brown.
  9. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the spinach puff pastry Christmas tree cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm, tearing off the twisted branches to enjoy this festive appetizer.

Notes

  • Ensure the frozen spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy pastry.
  • Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when creating the branches for better presentation.
  • Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
  • Can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
  • For a vegetarian diet, ensure the cheese used is free from animal rennet.