Ingredients

Pastry and Filling

500 grams (about 1 pound) puff pastry
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
200 grams (about 7 ounces) suluguni cheese
150 grams (about 5 ounces) fresh spinach
40 grams (about 3 tablespoons) butter
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

Start by lightly dusting your work surface with flour. Roll out the puff pastry until it's about 1/4 inch thick. Then, cut the pastry into squares, around 4 inches each side.

Make sure to keep any excess pastry covered to prevent it from drying out.

Step 2

Make the Filling

Chop the fresh spinach finely and combine it with the grated suluguni cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

For each pastry square, place a spoonful of the filling in the center.

Step 3

Shape the Pastries

Gather the corners of the pastry square towards the center to form a ball, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Pinch the seams tightly to prevent any leakage during baking.

Place the formed pastries onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, arranging them in the shape of a Christmas tree.

Step 4

Brush and Bake

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Before baking, brush the tops of the pastries with the egg yolk to give them a beautiful golden color.

Sprinkle the sesame seeds generously over the top and place them in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.

Step 5

Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and brush the pastries with melted butter for extra flavor and shine. Serve warm for a delightful experience, and enjoy your festive treat!

Servings

This Spinach and Suluguni Tree Pastry is not just a delight to the eyes but also a feast for the taste buds! Serve it hot right from the oven for maximum enjoyment, and don't forget to sprinkle a bit of extra sesame seeds for that added crunch! ✨

For an unforgettable gathering, pair the pastry with a simple homemade dip, like a garlic yogurt or a spicy salsa. It's perfect as an appetizer that everyone will love! 🥗

Hosting a bigger party? Create a festive platter with assorted cheeses, crackers, and seasonal fruits to complement the flavors! 🍷🍉 Don’t forget about your favorite sparkling beverage for that extra holiday cheer!

Equipment

Knife or Pizza Cutter

For cutting the pastry into squares, a sharp knife or a pizza cutter will provide clean edges! 🔪

We recommend:

Variations

Want to make your Spinach and Suluguni Tree Pastry gluten-free? Simply swap out the traditional puff pastry for a gluten-free store-bought version or try making your own with a blend of gluten-free flours! 🌾

For vegan friends, replace the Suluguni cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use a flax egg instead of the egg wash for that beautiful glaze! Your vegan guests will thank you! 🌱👌

Faq

  • Can I freeze the pastry before baking?

    Yes! You can assemble the pastry and freeze it. Just remember to bake it straight from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time! ❄️

  • How can I tell when the pastry is done?

    Your pastry should be golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean! 🔍

  • Can I add other fillings?

    Absolutely! Feel free to mix in ingredients like caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor! 🧅🌿

  • What is the best way to store leftovers?

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste! 🥡

  • What can I serve it with besides dips?

    Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal! Your guests will adore the combination! 🥗

  • How can I make my pastry even more flaky?

    Make sure your butter is cold and visible in your dough—this makes for those irresistible layers when baked! 🥳

Nutrition facts

Spinach and Suluguni Christmas Tree Pastries
Recipe Yield:12 servings
Calories:Estimated calories per serving range from 150 to 200.
Calories (Min - Max):150 - 200
Total Fat:10g
Saturated Fat:4g
Protein:6g
Total Carbohydrate:15g
Total Sugars:1g