There is something incredibly joyful about creating festive treats that bring a bit of holiday magic to your table, and this Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe fits that description perfectly. Picture a golden, flaky puff pastry shaped like a Christmas tree, packed with vibrant spinach and creamy feta cheese, accented by mozzarella and a hint of garlic—each bite is a celebration in itself. It not only tastes amazing but also makes for the cutest centerpiece during holiday gatherings, blending flavor, fun, and festivity all in one delightful appetizer.

Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Christmas tree bread is a breeze thanks to the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the flaky texture of puff pastry to the rich, salty contrast of feta, and the fresh, green pop of spinach, everything comes together for a mouthwatering bite.

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: This is the base of your bread, giving it that light, flaky, golden crust everyone loves.
  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry: Adds color, nutrition, and a mild earthiness to balance the cheeses.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Provides a tangy, salty punch with a creamy texture that melts beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a melty, gooey element that helps bind the filling together.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses a subtle punch of savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Ensures your bread develops a gorgeous golden finish and a slight shine.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps moisten the filling and adds a slightly fruity richness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents blandness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just enough warmth and depth without overwhelming the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want a hint of heat, adding a subtle kick.
  • Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for topping (optional): Adds delightful texture and a burst of additional flavor to the crust.

How to Make Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. While the oven heats up, mix your thawed and drained spinach with the crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl. This filling is packed with flavor and moisture, making it the heart and soul of your Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastry Layers

Unroll your puff pastry sheet and carefully cut it lengthwise into two equal rectangles. Place one rectangle onto the lined baking sheet, then spread your spinach-cheese mixture evenly over it, leaving a neat half-inch border around the edges. This border is key to sealing in the delicious filling and preventing leaks during baking.

Step 3: Layer and Shape the Tree

Place the second rectangle of puff pastry on top of the spinach layer, gently pressing the border to seal the filling inside. Now the fun begins—cut the layered pastry into a large triangle to resemble a Christmas tree. Don’t hesitate to use the side scraps creatively to add a trunk or extra branches for that perfect tree silhouette.

Step 4: Create Branches with Twists

Starting from the bottom edge of the triangle, use a sharp knife to make horizontal cuts on both sides, leaving a solid center strip that acts as the tree spine. Twist each strip gently to form the “branches,” revealing tantalizing glimpses of the cheesy filling inside. This twisting technique is what brings your bread to life visually and adds extra flaky layers.

Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Sprinkle Toppings

Brush the entire creation generously with the beaten egg. This simple step guarantees a shiny, gorgeous golden crust once baked. Optional toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning can be sprinkled on top now to add crunch and an extra pop of flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and a rich golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool just a bit so that it’s easy to slice without losing any of that scrumptious filling.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe

Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill takes your Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe from great to gourmet. The vibrant green herbs echo the spinach inside and brighten the overall look. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of paprika can also add a subtle flair.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired dips such as a cool tzatziki, tangy marinara, or a rich roasted red pepper sauce. Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a festive appetizer platter that feels light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine placing your finished tree on a rustic wooden cutting board surrounded by small bowls of olives, cherry tomatoes, and nuts to mimic a festive forest scene. You can also add tiny cheese cubes as “ornaments” on the branches or use edible flowers and microgreens for a sophisticated holiday touch that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The flaky texture remains surprisingly intact, and the flavors continue to meld wonderfully overnight.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this recipe ahead of time, freeze the unbaked Christmas tree bread on the parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the egg wash and baking instructions.

Reheating

To revive your leftover bread, warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This quick reheat refreshes the crispness without drying out the cheesy filling, making each bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you choose fresh spinach, sauté it briefly and then squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy pastry. Frozen spinach is just more convenient and ensures the filling is perfectly moist but not wet.

Can I substitute feta with another cheese?

Yes! Goat cheese or ricotta are wonderful alternatives if you prefer a milder flavor. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the right balance of creaminess and tang.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, swap the puff pastry for a vegan-friendly version and replace the cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Use a mixture of silken tofu and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, and opt for a non-dairy milk or aquafaba for the egg wash substitute.

What is the best way to serve this bread warm?

Serve it right after baking or gently reheat it to maintain its flaky texture. Pair it with cold or warm dips, which complement the warm, cheesy filling perfectly and add an extra layer of indulgence.

Can I add extra vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped artichokes, or even caramelized onions can take your Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe to the next level. Just make sure any additions are well-drained to keep the pastry crisp.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing quite like pulling a beautifully golden, flaky bread shaped like a Christmas tree out of the oven. This Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe is such a festive, delicious way to celebrate the season with friends and family. With simple ingredients and a playful presentation, it brings joy to the table and warmth to hearts—so go ahead and give it a try. Your holiday gatherings will never be the same!

Print
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Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 48 reviews
  • Author: Deborah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easy Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread is a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with flaky puff pastry layered with a flavorful mixture of spinach, feta, mozzarella, and garlic, this visually stunning bread is shaped like a Christmas tree and baked to golden perfection. It’s simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its savory taste and charming presentation.


Ingredients

Scale

Spinach Feta Filling

  • 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pastry

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for topping (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained chopped spinach, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine all flavors evenly.
  3. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet and cut it lengthwise into two equal rectangles. Place one rectangle on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Assemble the Bread: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the first sheet of puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, aligning it with the first.
  5. Shape the Christmas Tree: Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into a large triangle to resemble a Christmas tree. Optionally, use the leftover side scraps to create a trunk or branches at the base of the tree.
  6. Cut and Twist Branches: Starting from the bottom edge of the triangle, make horizontal cuts on both sides of the pastry, leaving the center spine intact. Gently twist each strip outward to form the appearance of tree branches.
  7. Apply Egg Wash and Toppings: Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top if desired for extra flavor and texture.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving warm. Pair with marinara or tzatziki sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute the feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.
  • Add sun-dried tomatoes or chopped artichokes to the filling for variation.
  • Serve warm with marinara sauce or tzatziki for a delicious dipping option.

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