Description
These Spinach Feta Cranberry Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Flaky puff pastry is filled with a savory and creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, tangy feta, cream cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, shaped into charming Christmas tree cones, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 250 g fresh spinach
- 200 g feta cheese
- 100 g cream cheese
- 50 g dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ⅛ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
For the Pastry
- 2 puff pastry sheets
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Spinach: Place a dry skillet over medium heat and add the fresh spinach. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts completely. Transfer the spinach to a colander to drain excess water and allow it to cool before chopping finely.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, nutmeg, cracked black pepper, and chopped dried cranberries. Mix thoroughly until it forms a creamy and evenly blended filling.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into long strips, then slice diagonally to form triangular shapes suitable for rolling into trees.
- Form the Trees: Starting at the base of each triangular piece, gently roll up towards the tip to form a cone or tree shape. Pinch the base to secure the shape so that it holds during baking.
- Bake the Trees: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the pastry trees upright on it. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish and optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed up and golden brown.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid soggy pastry.
- The nutmeg adds warmth but can be omitted if preferred.
- These puff pastry trees are best served warm fresh from the oven.
- You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried apricots if desired.
- For a vegan version, use vegan puff pastry and substitute feta and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: spinach puff pastry, feta pastry, cranberry appetizer, Christmas appetizers, holiday party snacks, vegetarian puff pastry
