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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- 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.