Spinach, Feta & Cranberry Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Directions to follow
Let’s break down the steps into easily digestible bites:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until thin.
- Cut the pastry into triangles.
- In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, feta cheese, dried cranberries, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture at the base of each triangle.
- Fold the edges of the triangles towards the center to shape them like trees.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the festive flavors!
Best ways to enjoy it
These puff pastry Christmas trees are best served warm, right from the oven. For a beautiful presentation, consider arranging them on a festive platter garnished with fresh herbs or pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. Pair them with a light dipping sauce, such as a yogurt-based tzatziki or a tangy cranberry dip, to elevate the experience even further. They make a wonderful appetizer for holiday feasts or could easily serve as a light lunch with a side salad.
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store these Christmas trees in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully—just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy on the outside.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, always make sure your puff pastry is well-chilled before rolling it out—this will help achieve that delightful flakiness. If you’re short on time or want to simplify, consider using pre-chopped spinach or crumbled feta from the store. Additionally, brushing the pastry with a raw egg wash not only adds color but also helps seal the edges, keeping everything together while baking.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? There are countless variations you can explore with this recipe! Swap feta for goat cheese for a tangy twist or use different vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or roasted peppers for added flavor. If you want a spicy kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes. You could even play with the shape—try star-shaped pastries for a different festive look!
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to make these puff pastry trees?
A: The prep and baking time combined is roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy festive treat!
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Q: Are there any suitable substitutes for the ingredients?
A: Absolutely! You can replace spinach with other leafy greens like kale, or use different cheeses depending on your preference. Vegan options also exist for cheese replacements.
Q: How can I ensure my puff pastry is flaky?
A: Keep your puff pastry cold as you work with it. The colder it is, the better it will puff up while baking!
Creating these Spinach, Feta & Cranberry Puff Pastry Christmas Trees will not only enhance your holiday spread but also bring joy to your table. Enjoy the festive cooking experience, and happy holidays!
Spinach, Feta & Cranberry Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until thin.
- Cut the pastry into triangles.
- In a bowl, mix together the chopped spinach, feta cheese, dried cranberries, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture at the base of each triangle.
- Fold the edges of the triangles towards the center to shape them like trees.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the festive flavors!
