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Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread

Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread

This Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring a buttery, flaky puff pastry crust filled with a savory mixture of sautéed spinach, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic garlic, this visually stunning bread is shaped like a Christmas tree, making it a beautiful centerpiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 2 sheets store-bought puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, beaten)
  • Olive oil (for sautéing, approx. 1-2 tbsp)

Filling

  • Fresh spinach, about 4 cups (packed)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional herbs: 1-2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach Filling: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper, remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, mix in the crumbled feta cheese and any desired fresh herbs such as dill or parsley.
  2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the two thawed puff pastry sheets into smooth rectangles of the same size. Place one sheet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the spinach and feta mixture over the first sheet of puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the layers.
  4. Layer and Shape the Dough: Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the filling. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the layered dough into the shape of a Christmas tree by forming a large triangle and trimming edges to create branches.
  5. Create the Christmas Tree Design: On each side of the ‘trunk,’ cut the branches into strips and gently twist each strip to create a braided, textured appearance resembling pine branches. Ensure not to cut through the center trunk area so the layers remain intact.
  6. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the entire bread surface with the beaten egg wash to ensure a golden, shiny crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is puffed up and golden brown.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use cold puff pastry for easier handling and better puff during baking.
  • Don’t overfill the bread to avoid sogginess and difficulty twisting.
  • Press the edges firmly to seal the filling inside and prevent leaks.
  • Twist the branches gently to maintain shape and prevent tearing.
  • Keep a close watch in the oven to avoid burning; cover edges with foil if browning too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas Tree Bread, Spinach Feta Bread, Holiday Appetizer, Festive Bread, Puff Pastry Appetizer, Party Food