As the holiday season rolls in, I find myself surrounded by twinkling lights and the comforting aroma of festive dishes wafting through the air. One standout treat that has stolen my heart this year is the Deviled Egg Christmas Trees. These delightful appetizers are not only a visual marvel, resembling glistening Christmas trees, but they also bring a flavorful festivity in every bite. With their vibrant green filling—thanks to fresh spinach—and a subtle hint of garlic, they are a fantastic conversation starter at any gathering. Plus, they offer a quick prep solution for those bustling holiday parties, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Curious how to make these whimsical treats? Let’s dive into the festive world of Deviled Egg Christmas Trees and create some magic together!
Why Are Deviled Egg Christmas Trees Perfect?
Festive Fun: These delightful Deviled Egg Christmas Trees bring a joyful twist to your holiday spread, making your appetizers not just tasty but visually stunning.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal skills required, anyone can whip these up in no time, allowing more focus on enjoying the festivities.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of garlic and spinach creates a rich yet refreshing filling, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a family gathering or a potluck, these charming appetizers are sure to spark conversation and admiration—ideal for your next holiday appetizer.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the flavors to suit your taste or dietary needs, like swapping out mayo for avocado for a creamier touch!
Make Ahead: You can prepare these trees a day in advance, saving you time and stress when hosting your holiday celebrations.
Deviled Egg Christmas Trees Ingredients
For the Egg Base
• Large Eggs – The foundation of this dish, providing protein and a creamy texture; use 7 whole large eggs for the recipe.
For the Spinach Filling
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the spinach mixture; use 2 tablespoons.
• Garlic – Enhances the savory notes of the filling; sliced thinly (2 cloves). You can reduce to 1 clove to soften the flavor.
• Baby Spinach – Provides a vibrant green color and fresh taste; use 5 oz. Fresh or frozen spinach can be used, but ensure to drain well if using frozen.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; use 1/3 cup for a lush texture.
• Mustard – Introduces a tangy kick; use 1 tablespoon.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor profile; juice from 1/2 lemon.
• Smoked Paprika – Offers subtle smokiness for depth; use 1/2 teaspoon.
• Hot Sauce – Adds a hint of heat (optional); use 1/4 teaspoon for extra zest.
• Dehydrated Potato Flakes – Provides thickness and stability to the filling; use 2 tablespoons.
For Decor and Assembly
• Red Fresno Chili Pepper – Minced for festive ornamentation; sprinkle as decorations.
• Yellow Bell Pepper – Cut into small stars to embellish the trees; these add a fun, colorful touch.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated over the tops to mimic snow; use finely grated for a delicate look.
These Deviled Egg Christmas Trees are not only festive in appearance but also flavorful and customizable to your liking! Enjoy building your edible masterpieces this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Deviled Egg Christmas Trees
Step 1: Cook the Eggs
Begin by placing 7 large eggs in a pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and once boiling, let it cook for 9.5 minutes. After boiling, immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool for about 10 minutes, allowing them to stop cooking and making peeling them easier.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Whites
Once the eggs are cool, gently tap them on the counter to crack the shell, then peel them under running water to help remove any stubborn pieces. Carefully slice each egg in half short-wise rather than long-wise for a Christmas tree shape. Check the bottom of each half; trim if necessary to ensure they stand upright without tipping.
Step 3: Cook Spinach
In a frying pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 2 sliced cloves of garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute, then add 5 oz of baby spinach. Stir constantly until the spinach is wilted, which takes about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 4: Blend Filling
In a food processor, combine the cooked spinach mixture with the egg yolks, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon mustard, juice from 1/2 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce, and 2 tablespoons dehydrated potato flakes. Blend until smooth, ensuring a creamy consistency. If the filling is too loose, add additional potato flakes until thickened.
Step 5: Pipe Filling
Transfer the creamy mixture into a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Holding the egg white halves firmly, pipe the spinach filling into each half, forming a tall decorative tree shape. Fill each egg generously; aim for high, whimsical trees that not only look festive but also taste delicious.
Step 6: Decorate
To create a fun and vibrant appearance, use minced red Fresno chili pepper as ornaments by sprinkling them onto the trees. Then, carefully place small yellow bell pepper stars on top of each tree to bring your Deviled Egg Christmas Trees to life, adding that festive touch to your holiday table.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Before serving, grate parmesan cheese over the filled eggs, allowing it to mimic delicate snow atop your holiday creations. Use a microplane for a fine, snow-like texture that enhances the visual appeal of your Deviled Egg Christmas Trees, making them even more enticing for your guests.
What to Serve with Deviled Egg Christmas Trees?
Bring the holiday spirit to life with a delightful spread that complements your gorgeous Deviled Egg Christmas Trees and satisfies every palate.
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Crispy Crostini: The crunchy bites offer a perfect contrast to the creamy eggs, helping to balance out the textures on your plate.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and creamy brie, to elevate your appetizer spread with rich flavors.
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Vibrant Garden Salad: A fresh salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and caramelized sweetness create a lovely contrast, bringing out the flavors of your festive deviled eggs.
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Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip echoes the spinach in your eggs and provides a comforting, warm option for your guests to enjoy.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: An alcohol-free festive drink that’s sweet and effervescent, it pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of your dishes and delights all ages.
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Chocolate Mint Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note! These cookies are light, with a touch of minty freshness that feels just right for the holidays.
Craft your holiday spread around these options to create a table filled with cheer, warmth, and delicious delights!
Storage Tips for Deviled Egg Christmas Trees
Fridge: Store assembled Deviled Egg Christmas Trees in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.
Filling Storage: If preparing ahead, store the spinach filling separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the eggs just before serving for the best presentation.
Freezer: While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled Deviled Egg Christmas Trees due to textural changes, you can freeze the filling for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before use.
Reheating: These appetizers are best served cold. If any filling is leftover, you can gently reheat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, but avoid overheating to maintain flavor.
Deviled Egg Christmas Trees Variations
Get ready to personalize your delicious Deviled Egg Christmas Trees with these fun and flavorful twists that will delight your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or avocado for a creamy texture without the dairy. Just keep in mind that the color might be less vivid.
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Spicy Twist: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra kick that’ll warm your heart on cold winter nights.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or chives into the spinach mixture for an aromatic boost. This combo elevates the flavor profile and adds delightful freshness to each bite.
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Colorful Veggie Boost: Mix in finely diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added crunch and a pop of color. This variation brings both flavor and nutrition to your festive feast.
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Smoky Flavor: Add some crumbled bacon or smoked cheese into the filling for a smoky twist that enhances the classic recipe. Pairing this with the rich egg mixture creates a savory bite!
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Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with halved avocado and use hummus instead of mayonnaise for a vegan treat that’s just as festive and flavor-packed. These will be a hit at any potluck!
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Sour Cream Substitute: Swap out mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangy surprise that complements the spinach perfectly. This little change can take your deviled egg experience to the next level.
These Deviled Egg Christmas Trees can be made to suit everyone’s taste, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a festive snack. Don’t forget to check out the delightful holiday appetizers for more inspiration to create a whimsical and joyful spread this season!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Deviled Egg Christmas Trees are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the spinach and blending it with the egg yolks and other ingredients. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can hard-boil the eggs and assemble them the day before; simply keep the egg whites in a separate container. When you’re ready to serve, pipe the filling into the whites and decorate with the red Fresno peppers and yellow bell pepper stars for a stunning presentation that’s just as delicious and visually appealing!
Expert Tips for Deviled Egg Christmas Trees
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Chill the Filling: Refrigerate the spinach filling for about 30 minutes before piping. This helps it firm up, making it easier to achieve that tall, tree shape.
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Trim Wisely: When slicing the eggs short-wise, ensure the bottom of each half is slightly trimmed if needed. This will help your trees stand upright and look stunning on your holiday table.
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Mix Well: Blend the filling until it’s very smooth for the best texture. If it feels too loose, adding more dehydrated potato flakes can help provide the right stability.
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Piping Perfection: Use a pastry bag fitted with a star tip to pipe the filling. This adds a beautiful decorative flair and allows you to control the height of each tree.
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Festive Finishing: For a snowy effect on your Deviled Egg Christmas Trees, use a microplane to finely grate the parmesan cheese, ensuring a delicate snow-like appearance on top of your trees.
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Fresh Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly squeeze out the moisture after thawing. Excess water can cause the filling to become soggy, diminishing the delightful taste.
Deviled Egg Christmas Trees Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best eggs for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh large eggs. Check the package date and aim for eggs with no dark spots or blemishes on their shells. Fresh eggs will peel better, giving you a smooth surface for your Deviled Egg Christmas Trees.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your assembled Deviled Egg Christmas Trees in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure they remain cold to preserve their freshness. If you have extra filling, it can be stored separately for up to 3 days, so you can assemble the eggs just before your gathering for the best presentation.
Can I freeze the filling for this recipe?
Yes! You can freeze the spinach filling for your Deviled Egg Christmas Trees for up to a month. To do this, place the filling in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows for easy assembly at your convenience!
What should I do if my filling is too loose?
Not a problem! If your filling seems too runny, you can add more dehydrated potato flakes in small increments, mixing well after each addition until you achieve the desired consistency. For a smoother bake, make sure you blend all ingredients thoroughly in your food processor.
Are there any dietary considerations for my guests?
Very! If you know your guests have allergies, be mindful of using common allergens like eggs, mayonnaise, and dairy from the parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try using avocado instead of mayo. Just be aware that this might alter the vibrant green color of your filling slightly.
How can I adjust the spice level of my Deviled Egg Christmas Trees?
The more the merrier when it comes to flavor! You can customize the heat by adjusting the amount of hot sauce you add. For a milder version, start with 1/8 teaspoon of hot sauce and taste before adding more. You can also mix in some chopped mild peppers if you desire to keep the flavor festive without too much heat.
Deviled Egg Christmas Trees That Wow Your Holiday Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place 7 large eggs in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 9.5 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath to cool for 10 minutes.
- Peel the eggs under running water, slice each in half short-wise, and trim the bottom if needed for balance.
- In a frying pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, add 2 sliced cloves of garlic, and sauté until fragrant for about 1 minute. Stir in 5 oz of baby spinach until wilted, around 3 minutes, then remove from heat and cool.
- Blend the cooked spinach mixture with the egg yolks, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon mustard, juice from 1/2 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce, and 2 tablespoons dehydrated potato flakes until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip and pipe the filling into each egg half to resemble a tree shape.
- Sprinkle minced red Fresno chili pepper on top for decoration and place yellow bell pepper stars on each tree.
- Grate parmesan cheese over the filled eggs to create a snow-like appearance.
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