Dinner

Spinach and Cheese Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe

BySana Jeannette December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

This Spinach and Cheese Christmas Tree Appetizer is a festive and delicious treat perfect for holiday gatherings. Flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture makes for an eye-catching and tasty starter. It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

A close-up view of several puff pastry snacks shaped like Christmas trees on wooden sticks, each consisting of three stacked layers of golden brown, flaky dough with visible flaky textures; within the layers, dark green spinach and melted light yellow cheese are swirled creating a marbled pattern; the tops have small white star-shaped cheese pieces, and some grated white cheese is sprinkled lightly over the pastries; they are arranged on a round cork board over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
1 cup frozen spinach (thawed and drained)

4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp onion powder
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven according to the puff pastry package instructions, usually around 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll out both puff pastry sheets. One sheet will be the base and the other the top.
Step 4: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over one pastry sheet, reaching all edges. Sprinkle an additional layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, aligning the edges and corners. Use a rolling pin gently to even out the thickness.
Step 6: Cut the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Step 7: Shape each strip into a Christmas tree by rolling from a wider base to a narrower top. Insert a skewer through the center of each tree to hold the shape.

Step 8: Place the shaped trees on the prepared baking sheet. Whisk the egg and lightly brush the tops of each tree with the egg wash.
Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes at 400°F, until the pastry is golden and crispy. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid soggy pastry.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or nutmeg to the filling.
Swap mozzarella for feta or goat cheese for a different twist.
Use whole wheat puff pastry for a healthier version.

Storage

Store leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a roll of dough folded into three distinct layers, with a creamy light yellow filling mixed with chopped dark green spinach evenly spread between each layer. The dough looks soft and slightly thick, while the spinach and cheese mixture has a textured and moist appearance. The roll is placed on a white marbled surface, with blurred skewered dough rolls in the background and white tiled walls behind them. The lighting highlights the fresh ingredients and the smooth, soft dough. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Wilt it in a pan over medium heat, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing it with the cheeses.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the trees and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Let them come to room temperature before putting them in the oven for best results.