Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Name: Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (10-oz.) bag frozen spinach, thawed and drained; 6 oz. cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 3/4 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed; 12 skewers; Salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste

Published: November 29, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Presentation: Shaped like Christmas trees, these skewers add a fun and festive touch to any gathering.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of spinach, artichokes, and creamy cheese is always a hit at parties.
Versatile Serving Option: Great as an appetizer or snack, they fit perfectly into any holiday menu.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the spices or add other flavors to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers efficiently, gather the essential tools listed below. They ensure smooth preparation and baking for this festive recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Rolling pin
Parchment paper
Baking sheets
Large mixing bowl
Cookie cutter or paring knife

Importance of Each Tool

Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out puff pastry, which is key for uniform baking.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking on baking sheets, making cleanup easy while ensuring perfect results.

Ingredients

For the Spinach Mixture

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

For the Dough and Assembly

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

How to Make Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine thawed spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, and chopped artichokes.
* Season the mixture with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 3: Roll Out Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface:
1. Roll each sheet of puff pastry into a rectangle measuring approximately 15 x 12 and about 1/8 thick.
2. Trim the edges if necessary for a clean finish.

Step 4: Assemble the Trees

Spread the spinach mixture evenly over one sheet of puff pastry.
Place the second pastry sheet on top of the filling and gently press down to adhere them together.
Cut out twelve 1-thick strips from the long end of the pastry.

Step 5: Shape Into Trees

For each strip:
1. Fold back and forth in a zig-zag motion to create a tree shape; make each fold slightly narrower than the last.
2. Arrange each tree with the filling side up on prepared baking sheets.
3. Insert skewers through each tree from bottom to top, leaving about ½ of skewer exposed at the top.

Step 6: Bake and Decorate

Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and allow cooling slightly.
While cooling:
1. Stack two slices of Provolone together.
2. Use a small cookie cutter or paring knife to cut out star shapes; repeat with remaining Provolone.
3. Carefully skewer stars onto the tops of each tree for that festive finish!

Enjoy your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers as an eye-catching centerpiece at your holiday celebrations!

How to Serve Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

These delightful Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are perfect for festive gatherings and holiday parties. They not only taste amazing but also add a charming touch to your appetizer spread.

Pair with Dips

Tzatziki Sauce – This cool, creamy yogurt-based dip complements the flavors of spinach and artichokes beautifully.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – The smoky sweetness of hummus pairs well with the savory skewers for a delightful contrast.

Create a Festive Platter

Cheese Board – Add various cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda alongside your skewers for an elegant cheese board.
Vegetable Crudités – Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the skewers.

Serve with Drinks

Sparkling Wine – A glass of bubbly enhances the festive atmosphere and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
Holiday Punch – A fruity punch can offer a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of these delicious skewers.

How to Perfect Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

To ensure your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

Use Thawed Spinach – Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess liquid from thawed spinach to avoid soggy pastry.
Roll Pastry Evenly – Aim for a uniform thickness when rolling out puff pastry for consistent baking results.
Season Generously – Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; these seasonings enhance the overall flavor of your filling.
Zig-Zag Shape Matters – Fold the dough in a tight zig-zag pattern to create distinct layers that resemble tree branches.
Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on your skewers while baking; you want them golden brown but not overcooked.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Complement your Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers with these delicious side dishes that will elevate your holiday spread.

Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks flavored with garlic make for a comforting addition.
Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized treats packed with cheese and herbs pair perfectly with your festive skewers.
Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a refreshing counterpoint.
Brussels Sprouts Salad – Shredded Brussels sprouts tossed with nuts and cranberries add crunch and nutrition to your meal.
Mini Quiches – These savory pastries filled with eggs, cheese, and vegetables are always a hit at parties.
Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of your skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your festive appetizer turns out perfectly.

Overloading the filling – Adding too much filling can cause the pastry to burst. Aim for an even layer that doesn’t exceed the edges.
Not squeezing out excess moisture – Failing to remove liquid from the spinach can lead to a soggy texture. Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
Ignoring pastry thickness – If the puff pastry is not rolled thinly enough, it won’t cook evenly. Ensure it’s about 1/8 thick for optimal results.
Cutting uneven strips – Uneven strips can lead to inconsistent tree shapes. Use a ruler or measuring tape while cutting for uniformity.
Skipping seasoning – Neglecting to season the mixture can result in bland skewers. Don’t forget salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

To freeze, place skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers

Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until hot, but be careful not to overcook.
Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers?

Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are festive appetizers made from spinach artichoke dip shaped into tree forms using puff pastry and skewers.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just be sure to wilt it down and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients.

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

Feel free to add other cheeses like feta or cream cheese variations, or include herbs like dill or garlic powder for additional flavor.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I serve Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers?

These skewers are perfect as finger food at holiday parties. Serve them warm with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara on the side.

Final Thoughts

Spinach-Artichoke Christmas Tree Skewers are not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients according to your preference. Try this festive treat at your next gathering, and watch as they become a favorite among guests!

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