Description
This Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe is a festive, visually stunning appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring layers of flaky puff pastry filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked spinach, feta, mozzarella, and aromatic spices, it’s both savory and satisfying. The pastry is shaped and twisted to resemble a Christmas tree, making it an eye-catching centerpiece that pairs wonderfully with marinara or tzatziki dips.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spinach Feta Filling
- 1 cup cooked spinach (squeezed dry)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional for Serving
- Marinara sauce or tzatziki for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a well-seasoned filling.
- Shape the pastry base: Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a large triangle shape, which will serve as the Christmas tree base. Transfer this triangle onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Add the filling: Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly over the triangle, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges to seal later.
- Top with second pastry layer: Cut a second triangle from leftover puff pastry scraps to match the size of the base. Place this triangle carefully over the filling, aligning edges with the base triangle.
- Create branches: Using a sharp knife, make horizontal cuts on both sides of the triangle, leaving the center intact to mimic the trunk of a Christmas tree. Twist each strip gently away from the center, revealing the filling and creating a branch effect.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the entire surface of the tree with beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and a beautiful golden brown color.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve the festive bread warm with marinara sauce or tzatziki for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach; just ensure it’s fully thawed and well-drained to avoid soggy pastry.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
- This bread works wonderfully as a festive appetizer or an eye-catching holiday centerpiece.
