Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

If you’re looking for a delightful way to bring a festive spirit to your holiday gatherings, let me introduce you to my Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers! These little trees are not only adorable but also bursting with flavor. They turn a classic dip into an eye-catching appetizer that everyone will love. Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, these skewers add a touch of whimsy and deliciousness to any table.

The beauty of these Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers is that they are easy to make and fun to eat. Plus, they’re great for all ages—kids love the tree shape, while adults appreciate the creamy spinach-artichoke filling. So gather your loved ones and let’s create something truly special this holiday season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Presentation: These cute little trees are sure to impress your guests and add a fun twist to traditional appetizers.
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy spinach, artichokes, and melted cheese create a rich and savory taste that everyone loves.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the skewers in advance and bake them just before serving. This makes hosting stress-free!
• Family-Friendly: Kids enjoy helping out in the kitchen, making these skewers a wonderful family activity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers! These are all easy to find and perfect for creating that delicious filling we all adore.

For the Filling

• 1 (10-oz.) bag frozen spinach, thawed and liquid squeezed out
• 6 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 c. shredded mozzarella
• 3/4 c. canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

For the Pastry

• All-purpose flour, for surface
• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (from a 17.3-oz. box), thawed according to package directions
• 12 skewers
• 6 slices Provolone

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Use different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda if you prefer something with a stronger taste.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added burst of freshness.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider adding jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling!

How to Make Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine your thawed spinach, softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and chopped artichokes. Season this delightful mixture with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Mixing everything well ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each puff pastry sheet until it’s about 15 x 12 and roughly 1/8 thick. Trim as needed so it’s nice and neat! This step is key because it gives us enough surface area to create those charming tree shapes later on.

Step 3: Assemble the Trees

Spread your spinach mixture evenly over one pastry sheet. Then place the second pastry sheet on top and gently press down to adhere them together. Next, cut out 12 strips that are each about 1 thick along the long side of your rectangle. This will give us plenty of dough to work with when forming our trees.

Step 4: Create Tree Shapes

Now comes the fun part! Take one strip at a time and fold it back and forth in a zig-zag motion—each layer should be slightly narrower than the last—to form those adorable tree shapes. Make sure to arrange them with the filling side facing up! Carefully skewer each tree from bottom to top; make sure about 1/2 of skewer shows at the top so we can add our stars later.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your decorated trees on the prepared baking sheets and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake until the puff pastry turns golden brown—about 25 to 30 minutes will do it! Allow them to cool slightly before moving on to our starry decoration.

Step 6: Top with Stars

Stack two slices of Provolone together and use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut out little stars—aim for four stars total from each stack! Once cut out, carefully skewer these festive stars onto the tops of each tree for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—delicious Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers ready for your holiday festivities! Enjoy every bite as you celebrate with friends and family this season!

Pro Tips for Making Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Creating these festive skewers is a fun and easy way to impress your guests this holiday season!

• Thoroughly Squeeze Out Liquid: Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery and ensures that each tree holds its shape beautifully.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh artichokes instead of canned. Fresh ingredients can elevate the flavor profile of your dish, giving it a more vibrant and homemade taste.
• Maintain Even Layers: When folding the puff pastry strips into trees, aim for consistent zig-zags. This technique not only makes your skewers look visually appealing but also ensures even baking throughout.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Provolone adds a nice touch, feel free to mix in other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor twist that caters to your taste preferences.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your skewers as they bake. Ovens can vary in temperature, so checking a few minutes early will help you catch that perfect golden brown color without overbaking.

How to Serve Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Presenting your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers can turn an appetizer into a centerpiece! Here are some delightful ways to serve them.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of finely chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Lightly dusting some crushed red pepper flakes on top can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile, adding a hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the skewers, creating a balanced bite with every mouthful.
• Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers provide a colorful contrast and add a healthy touch to your spread.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the skewers while providing refreshing crunchiness in each bite.
• Stuffed Mini Peppers: These bite-sized delights filled with cream cheese or another cheese mixture make for an excellent companion dish that echoes the flavors in the skewers.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday gatherings a breeze! You can whip them up ahead of time and simply bake them when your guests arrive.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for about 3-4 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the puff pastry.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the assembled but unbaked skewers on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
• Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious skewers!

Can I make Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or a cashew cream blend for a dairy-free option.

How can I customize my Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers?

Feel free to add other fillings like chopped bell peppers or olives. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!

How long does it take to prepare Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes in the oven. Perfect for quick holiday entertaining!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers! They not only bring festive cheer to your table but also offer a delicious twist on a classic appetizer. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these skewers are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be filled with joy and good food!