Name: Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces frozen spinach, defrosted and liquid squeezed out; 13.75 ounces quartered artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheddar blend (fiesta blend, triple cheddar, cheddar-jack blend); 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 whole egg, beaten (for egg wash); Optional garnish: finely chopped tomato for a pop of red color

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·4 from 76 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings both cheer and flavor to your holiday table, look no further than this delightful Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe. It transforms classic spinach and artichoke dip ingredients into a stunning, golden-baked Christmas tree shape that’s as fun to serve as it is to eat. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings, this appetizer combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the buttery flakiness of puff pastry for a bite-sized celebration of winter flavors.

Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is the first step towards creating magic. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing taste, texture, and visual appeal in the Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe.

1 sheet puff pastry (thawed): This buttery, flaky base wraps everything up with delicious crispiness and structure.
6 ounce frozen spinach (defrosted and liquid squeezed out): Adds vibrant green color and classic earthy flavor without excess moisture.
13.75 ounce quartered artichoke hearts (drained and chopped): Contributes tender texture and subtle tang that pairs perfectly with the spinach.
4 ounce cream cheese (softened to room temperature): Brings creamy richness and helps bind the filling together.
1 cup shredded cheddar or cheddar blend: For melty, sharp flavor—using a blend can add complexity and a festive touch.
1 whole egg: Used for an egg wash to create a beautiful golden-brown finish on the pastry.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the dip’s savory notes with gentle aromatic warmth.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy dip perfectly.

How to Make Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure everything bakes evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Spinach and Artichoke Filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, defrosted spinach with excess liquid squeezed out, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to create a smooth, flavorful dip base that will fill the pastry beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Pastry Tree

Roll out your thawed puff pastry directly onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet using a rolling pin. Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture evenly over the surface, making sure to get all the way to the edges. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar blend over the filling, adding a cheesy layer that will melt perfectly as it bakes. Roll up the puff pastry lengthwise, like a jellyroll, creating a log of delicious filling inside buttery layers. Slice this roll into ¼ inch thick pinwheels (you should get about 16 rolls). Arrange these cut rolls on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree—this step is what makes the recipe so fun and visually festive.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake

Beat the whole egg in a small bowl and gently brush this egg wash over the entire shaped Christmas tree. This ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust once baked. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 26 to 28 minutes until the pastry is puffed and stunningly golden. For an optional festive finish, sprinkle finely chopped tomatoes on top after baking to add a bright pop of red color.

How to Serve Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing never has to be complicated. Finely chopped tomatoes provide a vibrant red contrast reminiscent of Christmas ornaments, while a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green freshness. You can also add shredded Parmesan around the edges after baking for an extra savory touch that looks like snowy highlights on your tree.

Side Dishes

Pairing your spinach dip Christmas tree with crisp raw veggies like carrot sticks and red bell pepper slices makes for a fresh, crunchy contrast. A side of assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices complements the warm, cheesy filling and adds variety to the crunch factor. If you want to go all out, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling cider perfectly balances the richness of the appetizer.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is key for this festive recipe. Arrange your tree on a large wooden platter or green tray to mimic an evergreen forest floor. Use small bowls of additional spinach dip or marinara sauce “ornaments” around the tree for dipping fun. You can also light some candles or sprinkle edible glitter nearby for making your appetizer the centerpiece of your holiday spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rolls maintain their flavor well, though the pastry may lose some crispness. Reheating gently helps regain some of that delightful texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, individual rolls can be frozen before baking by arranging them on a tray, freezing until firm, then transferring to a zip-top bag. This way, you have ready-made portions to bake fresh whenever you want a last-minute festive snack. When ready, bake straight from frozen but expect to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10-12 minutes to refresh the pastry’s crispness and melt the cheese inside. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the flaky texture—it tends to make puff pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just sauté the fresh spinach briefly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing it in. This will keep your filling from becoming too watery and help maintain that perfect texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free puff pastry available at some specialty stores, but keep in mind the texture and rise may differ slightly. Be sure to check the packaging for baking times and temperatures!

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time and bake later?

Yes! You can assemble and slice the rolls, then arrange them on the baking sheet and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to accommodate the chilled dough.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar or a cheddar blend adds a great sharpness and melty quality, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a little spice. The cheese should complement the spinach and artichoke without overpowering the creamy filling.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in finely chopped roasted red peppers, chopped green onions, or even a touch of fresh dill to give the filling your own unique twist. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the puff pastry crisp.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Spinach Dip Christmas Tree Appetizer Recipe that makes holiday entertaining both easier and more joyful. It brings bold, festive flavors and an irresistible presentation to your table, sure to impress your guests and delight everyone’s taste buds. Give this recipe a try and watch how it becomes a beloved holiday tradition that you’ll look forward to year after year.