Introduction to Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
During the bustling holiday season, I find myself dreaming of cozy gatherings filled with delicious food and warm laughter. That’s where my Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread comes into play. This delightful dish brings festive cheer right to the table while being surprisingly easy to make. Imagine gathering around a table with loved ones, tearing off pieces of warm, fluffy bread stuffed with flavorful spinach and feta. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a visual feast as well. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together and create something special for your holiday gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
This Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread is not just beautiful; it’s a breeze to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have it ready in no time! The taste is simply divine—the savory filling of spinach and feta mingles perfectly within the warm, fluffy bread. It’s an eye-catching centerpiece that’s sure to impress at any holiday gathering, making your cooking efforts feel effortlessly joyous.
Ingredients for Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
Creating this festive Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread is all about balancing simplicity and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of our dough, giving it that classic fluffy texture. Opt for unbleached for a more natural flavor.
- Instant dry yeast: The star performer that helps our dough rise quickly and beautifully. It’s easy to use—no proofing needed!
- Sugar: Just a smidge to feed the yeast and enhance browning. It balances the savory notes of the filling.
- Salt: A critical flavor enhancer that brings everything together. Don’t skip this one!
- Warm water: Helps activate the yeast and creates the right environment for your dough to thrive.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and moisture to the dough, while also making it easy to handle.
- Frozen spinach: A quick and easy way to add vitamins and color without the hassle of fresh prep. Just thaw and drain well!
- Feta cheese: The star filling ingredient, offering a tangy, creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with spinach.
- Garlic: Minced for that aromatic kick; it complements the spinach and feta perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat—feel free to adjust to your liking for extra spice.
- Dried oregano: This fragrant herb adds a Mediterranean touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Not only adds color, but also freshens up the filling endlessly!
- Egg: An essential ingredient to brush over the bread for a golden sheen when baked.
- Sesame or poppy seeds (optional): These crunchy toppings add both texture and visual appeal.
- Melted butter (optional): Brushing this on after baking introduces an irresistible aroma and shine!
You can find the precise measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of this article, available for printing to keep in your kitchen. Happy baking!
How to Make Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
Preparing the Dough
To kick things off, let’s bring the dough to life. Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This blend creates the foundation of our Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread and is crucial for achieving the right rise. Next, gently pour in the warm water and olive oil. Use a wooden spoon to stir until a soft dough forms. At this point, your hands are your best tools! Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic texture. Once that’s accomplished, place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Now, let it rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, or until it’s doubled in size—just like the excitement of the holidays!
Making the Filling
While you wait for the dough, let’s whip up that delicious filling! In a medium bowl, combine the thawed and well-drained spinach with the crumbled feta cheese. The two are like old friends—tangy feta embraces the earthy spinach beautifully! Add the minced garlic, black pepper, dried oregano, and parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything well until every ingredient is just lovingly blended. This filling is bursting with flavor and will make your kitchen smell divine as it bakes!
Shaping the Christmas Tree
Now for the fun part—shaping your Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread! Start by punching down the risen dough and divide it into 32 equal pieces. Each piece should resemble a small disc when flattened. After that, take about 1 teaspoon of your spinach and feta filling and place it in the center of each disc. Pinch the edges together to form a ball, ensuring that all that scrumptious filling is tucked away inside. Next, you’ll arrange these filled balls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Create a beautiful Christmas tree shape by stacking them: begin with one ball at the top, then increase the number of balls in each row until you reach seven at the base, forming that iconic triangle. Use any extra dough balls for a tree trunk at the bottom!
Baking and Finishing Touches
Once your tree is shaped, it’s time for the oven! Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and brush the tops of your lovely dough balls with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden, shiny finish as they bake. If you fancy, add sesame or poppy seeds on top for extra crunch and festivity. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, filling your home with the delightful aroma of baking bread. Once out of the oven, don’t forget to brush on some melted butter if you like—a little extra indulgence never hurt. Let your bread cool slightly before serving, and watch as your loved ones gather around to admire—and devour—your beautiful creation!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your warm water is not too hot; it should feel comfortable to the touch to protect the yeast.
- When kneading, add flour gradually if the dough is too sticky. It should be soft but not overly wet.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free space. Ovens slightly on can help create a cozy environment.
- Don’t rush baking; let them cool a bit before serving for the best flavor!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A large, rimmed sheet is ideal. A pizza stone works as a great alternative.
- Mixing bowl: Any size will do, but a larger bowl makes mixing easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; kitchen scale is a handy alternative.
- Rolling pin: A standard one works wonders. You can also use a sturdy glass if needed.
- Pastry brush: Great for egg washes—your fingers can substitute in a pinch!
Variations on Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
- Herb-Infused Dough: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Swap: Mix in other cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Integrate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for a surprising heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Delight: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese and use aquafaba instead of egg wash for vegan-friendly baking.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the filling for additional flavors and textures.
- Sweet Spinach Bread: For a unique take, incorporate cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar in the dough to create a sweet holiday treat.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal; arugula or mixed greens work wonderfully.
- Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for a cozy, comforting combination.
- Offer a selection of dips such as hummus or tzatziki for added flavor.
- Get festive: arrange your bread on a beautiful wooden board for stunning presentation.
FAQs about Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
Can I prepare the Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead. Just store the dough in the fridge once it’s risen. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. Alternatively, you can also freeze the assembled bread before baking. Just remember to bake it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.
What can I serve with Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread?
This festive bread pairs beautifully with a green salad, a bowl of soup, or a variety of dips like tzatziki or hummus. It’s perfect for sharing as a delightful appetizer during gatherings!
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients, especially the yeast, are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy a piece of your delicious Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment—just reheat in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Can I customize the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, herbs, or even different cheeses to the filling. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to create a version that’s just right for your family!
Final Thoughts
As we gather around the table this holiday season, my Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread becomes more than just a delectable appetizer. It’s a symbol of love and togetherness, a reason to share cherished moments with family and friends. Watching faces light up as they tear into the fluffy bread, with its flavorful filling, brings pure joy to my heart. Each bite is a celebration, a delightful blend of flavors that captivates the spirit of the season. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of cooking, and create this festive treat that will surely become a holiday tradition!
Print
Christmas Tree Spinach Feta Bread
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive spinach and feta filled bread shaped like a Christmas tree, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (7 g) instant dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 240 ml warm water
- 60 ml olive oil
- 250 g frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 200 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for brushing after baking)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
- In a bowl, combine the well-drained spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, black pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix thoroughly.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 32 even pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc.
- Place about 1 tsp of filling in the center of each disc. Pinch the edges to seal, forming a ball.
- Arrange the filled balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape: start with one ball at the top, then each subsequent row increases by one ball, forming a triangle (e.g., 1, 2, 3… up to 7 balls for the base row). Use any extra balls for the tree trunk at the bottom.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and brush with melted butter, if desired. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the feta cheese is made from non-animal rennet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen before baking for a quick holiday snack later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
