There’s just something about the holiday season that makes us want to bake all the festive things. From cookies shaped like reindeer to snowman cupcakes, the kitchen turns into a winter wonderland of deliciousness.

But if you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is tasty, let me introduce you to the Puff Pastry Christmas Tree filled with creamy, cheesy spinach dip. It’s crispy, golden, and packed with flavor,and trust me, it is a crowd favorite.

This easy-to-make holiday appetizer is not just fun to look at, but it’s also delicious. The buttery, flaky layers of puff pastry combined with the cheesy, garlicky spinach dip create the perfect bite-sized snack.

Christmas Tree Puff Pastry on a wooden board

Christmas Tree Party Appetizer

Here’s What You’ll Need

For the Spinach Dip

1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Christmas Tree

2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder

How to Make the Christmas Tree Puff Pastry Snack:

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Dip

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thawed spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 2: Assemble the Christmas Tree

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out one puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife, shape it into a large triangle, this will be the base of your Christmas tree. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.

3. Spread the spinach dip evenly over the puff pastry triangle, making sure to get all the way to the edges.

4. Roll out the second puff pastry sheet and cut it into another large triangle. Carefully place it over the spinach dip-covered triangle. Trim the edges so both layers match up.

5. Using a sharp knife, cut horizontal slits on both sides of the triangle, leaving the center intact to form the tree trunk. These slits will become the tree branches.

6. Twist each strip a few times to create a spiral effect, making it look like a real Christmas tree.

7. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder. Brush this mixture over the puff pastry for extra golden, buttery goodness.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Christmas tree puff pastry in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully golden brown and puffed to perfection. The smell alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let the tree cool for about 5 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, and you can serve it with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or just enjoy it as is!

Variations and Fun Twists

Because the holidays are all about making things extra special, here are a few variations to try:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread Tree

Swap out the spinach dip for a mix of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan) with minced garlic and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. When baked, this turns into the ultimate pull-apart cheesy bread.

2. Pesto & Sundried Tomato Christmas Tree

Spread a layer of pesto on the bottom pastry triangle, then sprinkle with chopped sundried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella before adding the second pastry sheet. The green pesto and red tomatoes make it extra festive!

3. Sweet Nutella Christmas Tree

If you want to go the dessert route (which is never a bad idea), replace the spinach dip with Nutella. Brush with a little egg wash and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking for a beautiful, snowy effect.

4. Cranberry & Brie Puff Pastry Tree

For a more sophisticated twist, spread cranberry sauce on the base layer and add small chunks of Brie cheese. The sweet-tart cranberries and creamy Brie melt together in the most delicious way.

Tips for Success

Work quickly with puff pastry – If it gets too warm, it becomes tricky to handle. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it.
Use a sharp knife – This will help get clean cuts for the tree shape and branches.
Don’t overfill – A generous amount of dip is great, but too much can cause leaks during baking.
Make ahead – You can assemble the tree a few hours before baking and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.

This Christmas Tree Puff Pastry treat is definitely a holiday favorite. It’s easy, impressive, and absolutely delicious. Whether you serve it as a snack on Christmas Eve, at a holiday party, or just for a family night in by the tree, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

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