why make this recipe
Spinach Puff Pastry Trees are not just delicious but also fun to make and serve. They look impressive and can be a great conversation starter at any gathering. These tasty treats are perfect as appetizers or snacks and are packed with flavors from the spinach and cheese. Plus, they are easy to customize, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
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 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 spinach filling between pastry layers as you roll. Optionally, wrap strips around foil cones for precise shapes.
- Arrange 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 from the baking sheet. Serve warm or at room temperature.
how to serve Spinach Puff Pastry Trees
Serve the Spinach Puff Pastry Trees warm or at room temperature. They make a great addition to a party platter, or you can enjoy them as a snack on your own. Pair them with dips like ranch or marinara for a delicious twist.
how to store Spinach Puff Pastry Trees
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 5–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as that can make them soggy.
tips to make Spinach Puff Pastry Trees
- Make sure to squeeze all the moisture from the spinach to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought spinach filling.
- Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
- Use a pizza cutter to easily slice the pastry into strips.
variation (if any)
You can customize your Spinach Puff Pastry Trees by adding other ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cooked bacon for a heartier filling. Using different flavored cream cheeses can also change the taste.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it briefly and make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the filling.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the trees up to the baking step and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours. Just bake them right before serving.
Can I freeze the Spinach Puff Pastry Trees?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Spinach Puff Pastry Trees
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and impressive spinach and cheese-filled puff pastry trees, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
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 (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine chopped spinach, cream cheese, and shredded cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and stir until blended.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the puff pastry into long strips (about 1 inch wide).
- Roll each strip into a loose spiral, tapering from a broad base to a pointed tip to form a tree shape. Press to secure and spoon or pipe spinach filling between layers as you roll.
- Arrange trees on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from the baking sheet. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Ensure to squeeze moisture from spinach and experiment with different cheeses for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tree
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
