A Cheesy, Bite-Sized Easter Appetizer
These Spinach Dip Bites are the ultimate Easter appetizer, combining golden, flaky pastry crusts with a creamy, cheesy spinach dip filling. Each bite is topped with melted mozzarella or Parmesan, creating a gooey, slightly crispy finish that makes them irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning an Easter buffet or looking for Easter snacks for a party, these easy, bite-sized treats will be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Easter gatherings – A great addition to any Easter buffet or hors d’oeuvres platter.
- Easy to make – Uses simple ingredients with minimal prep time.
- Deliciously cheesy – A creamy filling topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence.
- Great for finger food – Ideal for guests to grab and enjoy at a party.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pastry Cups
- Puff pastry sheets or crescent roll dough
- Olive oil (for brushing)
For the Spinach Dip Filling
- Frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- Cream cheese, softened
- Sour cream
- Garlic, minced
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper
For Topping
- Additional mozzarella or Parmesan
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Preparing the Pastry Cups
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
- Cut the dough: Roll out the puff pastry or crescent dough and cut into small squares.
- Shape the cups: Press each square into a mini muffin tin, shaping a small cup. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Par-bake the pastry: Bake for 5 minutes until slightly puffed but not fully cooked.
Making the Spinach Dip Filling
- Prepare the spinach: Squeeze out any excess moisture from the thawed spinach.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir in the spinach until well mixed.
- Fill the pastry cups: Spoon the spinach dip mixture into each partially baked pastry cup.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top.
Final Bake
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the pastry is golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 bite-sized appetizers
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Bacon Lovers: Mix in crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
- Different Pastry: Try phyllo cups instead of puff pastry for a crispier bite.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked bites for up to a month; bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 18 minutes.
- Reheating: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate them unbaked, then bake just before serving.
2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and drain excess moisture.
3. Can I make these without a mini muffin tin?
Yes, shape small pastry cups on a baking sheet using parchment paper.
4. What dipping sauce pairs well with these?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a garlic aioli work beautifully.
5. Can I make these with crescent roll dough?
Yes! Crescent roll dough makes them extra buttery and flaky.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try feta, gouda, or cheddar for a flavor twist.
7. Can I make a larger version?
Yes, use regular muffin tins and increase the baking time by 5 minutes.
8. How do I keep them crispy for a party?
Bake them fresh and serve immediately or reheat in the oven before serving.
9. Can I serve these at room temperature?
Yes, but they taste best warm and crispy.
10. Are these good for an Easter brunch?
Definitely! They fit right into an Easter brunch buffet alongside quiche, deviled eggs, and fresh fruit.
Conclusion
These Spinach Dip Bites are the ultimate Easter finger food idea, combining flaky pastry, creamy spinach dip, and melted cheese into an irresistible appetizer. Whether served at an Easter buffet, brunch, or as a spring appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Try them for your next gathering and watch them disappear!