Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe kitchen buzzes with excitement as holiday preparations unfold, and what could be more festive than these Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers? Combining creamy, savory goodness wrapped in flaky puff pastry, they make the perfect holiday party appetizer that will have everyone clamoring for more. Not only are these delightful skewers visually stunning, resembling a cheerful Christmas tree, but they also allow you to prep ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the celebrations without stress. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or need a crowd-pleaser to bring along, these vegetarian treats are sure to shine on any festive table. Curious about how to create this merry masterpiece? Let’s get started! Why Are These Skewers a Must-Try? Festive Appeal: These Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are not only delicious but also festive, making them the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Easy Prep: With a simple assembly process and make-ahead options, you can spend more time with family and friends. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy filling enveloped in flaky pastry will impress guests at any gathering. Versatile Enjoyment: Adjust the recipe with your favorite cheese or vegetables for a personal touch, or serve alongside a zingy dipping sauce for extra flavor! For another delicious appetizer to try, check out these Garlic Parmesan Chicken bites. Healthier Option: Enjoy guilt-free holiday fun by using lighter cream cheese or gluten-free puff pastry – comfort without compromise! Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Ingredients • Get ready to assemble this festive delight! For the Filling Frozen Spinach – Adds vibrant color and nutrients; ensure it’s thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture. Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy base that binds the filling together beautifully. Shredded Mozzarella – Creates that irresistibly stretchy, melty texture when baked. Canned Artichoke Hearts – Offers a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste; chop well and drain before use. Kosher Salt – A key seasoning that elevates the flavors of all the ingredients. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth and a subtle spicy note to balance the filling. Pinch of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a slight kick in their dip! For the Pastry All-Purpose Flour – Use for dusting your work surface to prevent sticking during assembly. Frozen Puff Pastry – The heart of these skewers; ensures a flaky, buttery bite—remember to thaw it according to package instructions. For Assembly Skewers – Essential for shaping and securing your pastry and filling into delightful Christmas trees. Provolone Slices – A tasty topping for an extra cheesy finish, plus a decorative touch! With these vibrant Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers, your holiday gatherings are bound to be festive and flavorful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Step 1: Prep the Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of thawed and well-drained frozen spinach, 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1 cup of chopped canned artichoke hearts. Season with ½ tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and creamy, making for a delicious filling for your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry On a floured surface, carefully roll out one sheet of thawed frozen puff pastry until it’s approximately ¼ inch thick. Cut the pastry into triangle shapes resembling Christmas trees, each about 5 inches tall. Make sure to reposition the pastry as needed to prevent sticking while rolling. These festive triangles will form the delightful outer layer of your skewers. Step 3: Assemble the Skewers Take each pastry triangle and spoon a generous amount of the spinach-artichoke mixture onto the larger base end of the triangle. Starting from the base, roll the pastry towards the point, creating a cone shape. As you roll, insert a skewer into the bottom to hold everything in place. Ensure the filling is compact and secure as you form each Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. Step 4: Top with Cheese Once all the skewers are rolled, place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each rolled tree. This not only adds extra cheesy flavor but also creates a festive decoration for your skewer trees. The provolone will melt beautifully during baking, contributing to a delightful flavor profile when you serve your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. Step 5: Chill Before Baking Refrigerate the assembled skewers for about 30 minutes to 2 hours if needed. This chilling step helps the pastry firm up and makes them easier to handle while ensuring the filling stays intact during baking. While the skewers chill, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for baking the Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. Step 6: Bake Once the skewers are chilled and the oven is preheated, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Check that the cheese is melted and bubbly for a delightful finish. The aroma filling your kitchen will be inviting and festive as your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers bake to perfection! Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Variations Feel free to experiment with these delicious twists that’ll elevate your festive skewers! Cheese Swap: Try substituting mozzarella with feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile. The brininess of feta adds a delightful zing! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry to make these skewers suitable for those on a gluten-free diet without sacrificing taste. Veggie Boost: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the filling for an unexpected texture and a hint of spice. Add Protein: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or diced chicken for those who want to add a meaty twist to the savory filling. This hearty addition will delight your meat-loving guests! Herb Infusion: Chop up fresh herbs like dill or basil to introduce a refreshing twist to the filling, emphasizing vibrant holiday flavors. Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of texture, consider blending in some chopped walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling. Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top before baking for a golden, cheesy crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Spicy Kick: If you like heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy surprise. These spicy skewers could be your new holiday favorite! For more tasty creations to serve alongside, don’t forget to explore these crispy and delectable Garlic Parmesan Chicken bites or consider a warm bowl of Mexican Street Corn for a colorful addition to your holiday spread! How to Store and Freeze Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Fridge: Keep assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This allows you to prepare them ahead of your holiday festivities. Freezer: To freeze after baking, allow the skewers to cool completely. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 1 month. Reheating: For best results, reheat baked skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the pastry crispy while warming the savory filling. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepared skewers can be frozen before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for warm, fresh Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers straight from the oven! What to Serve with Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Imagine the warm glow of the holiday season complemented by delightful flavors and textures that make every bite a celebration. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These rich, buttery mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the crispy skewers, making them a perfect side. Crisp Caesar Salad: A bright salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing adds a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors of the skewers. Sweet and Spicy Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots, paired with a hint of spice, creates a beautiful harmony with the savory skewers. Herbed Quinoa: This nutty, fluffy quinoa dish infused with fresh herbs provides a nutritious side with a delightful texture, elevating your meal. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted bread slathered in garlic butter and melted cheese makes for an irresistible dipping option alongside your skewers. Sparkling Apple Cider: The bubbly, crisp apple cider with its subtle sweetness is a festive drink that complements the flavors beautifully. Chocolate Peppermint Bark: End your festive feast on a sweet note with a rich and minty dessert that brings holiday cheer to your table. Expert Tips for Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers • Squeeze Out Liquid: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible to avoid a soggy pastry. • Chill Pastry: If the puff pastry becomes too warm while you work, chilling it briefly will make it easier to handle. • Creative Shapes: Feel free to cut different shapes for your skewers! Stars or bells can add even more festive flair to your appetizer. • Cheese Variations: Experiment with various cheeses like goat cheese or feta for unique flavors in your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. • Dipping Sauce: Pair these skewers with a creamy dip, such as ranch or a zesty marinara, to enhance the festive experience. Make Ahead Options These Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time during the hectic holiday season! You can assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating them until ready to bake. To maintain that delightful flaky texture, tightly wrap the skewers in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake the skewers for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy the festive flavors and impress your guests without any last-minute stress, ensuring a cheerful celebration all around! Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Recipe FAQs How do I know if the spinach is fresh enough to use? Absolutely! When using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained. Look for vibrant green color without any dark spots. It should have a fresh, earthy smell. If using fresh spinach instead, choose bright, crisp leaves free of wilting or browning. What’s the best way to store leftovers from the skewers? Great question! After baking, allow the Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispy texture. Can I freeze the skewers? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the baked skewers to cool completely. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or large freezer bag, where they’ll remain fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge, reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes without thawing. What should I do if my pastry seems too warm to work with? Very! If your puff pastry gets too warm, simply chill it briefly in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This makes it much easier to handle and helps prevent sticking as you shape your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers. Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind with this recipe? For sure! This recipe is vegetarian, making it a great option for meat-free gatherings. If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free puff pastry and lower-fat cream cheese or cheese alternatives to accommodate varying preferences and needs. Can I make these skewers in advance for my holiday party? Yes! You can assemble the Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve! This make-ahead strategy helps you focus on your guests and enjoy the celebrations without stress. Irresistible Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers Delight These Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are the perfect festive appetizer, combining creamy filling wrapped in flaky pastry that everyone will love at your holiday gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 25 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 skewersCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 cup thawed frozen spinach Well-drained8 oz cream cheese Softened1 cup shredded mozzarella1 cup canned artichoke hearts Chopped and drained0.5 tsp kosher salt0.25 tsp freshly ground black peppera pinch crushed red pepper flakes OptionalFor the Pastry1 cup all-purpose flour For dusting1 box frozen puff pastry Thawed according to package instructionsFor Assembly12 skewers12 slices provolone cheese Equipment Mixing bowlRolling Pinbaking sheetParchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and artichoke hearts. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well blended.On a floured surface, roll out 1 sheet of puff pastry to 1/4 inch thick and cut into triangle shapes resembling Christmas trees.Spoon spinach-artichoke mixture onto the base of each triangle and roll towards the point, inserting a skewer to hold it in place.Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each rolled tree.Refrigerate skewers for 30 minutes to 2 hours and preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).Bake the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesSqueeze out moisture from spinach to prevent soggy pastry. Variations in cheese can enhance flavor, and serving with a dipping sauce can elevate the experience. 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