Deviled Egg Christmas Trees

why make this recipe

Deviled Egg Christmas Trees are a fun and festive twist on a classic appetizer. They not only taste great but also add a creative touch to your holiday gatherings. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or parties. With their vibrant colors and fun shape, they can bring cheer to any table. Plus, they are easy to make, making them an ideal option for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike.

The unique presentation of the deviled eggs shaped like Christmas trees makes them a conversation starter. Guests will love how they look, and the flavors are equally impressive. This dish combines traditional deviled egg flavors with added ingredients like spinach and spices that elevate the taste. The combination of creamy filling, crunchy toppings, and the festive look makes these egg trees a standout treat.

how to make Deviled Egg Christmas Trees

Making Deviled Egg Christmas Trees is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide, along with all the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

• 7 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, sliced thin
• 5 oz baby spinach
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 lemon (juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons dehydrated potato flakes
• 1 red Fresno chili pepper, minced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into small stars
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

1. Boil the eggs: Start by boiling the eggs for about 9½ minutes. This time ensures that the yolks are cooked thoroughly but remain creamy. Once done, remove them from boiling water and cool them down in an ice bath. This helps stop the cooking process and makes peeling easier.

2. Prepare the eggs: After they’ve cooled, peel the eggs carefully. Slice them horizontally in half. To make them stand upright, trim a small piece from the bottom of each half. Be careful not to cut too much; just enough to keep them stable.

3. Sauté garlic and spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the sliced garlic and sauté it for a minute until fragrant. Next, add the baby spinach and cook until it wilts slightly. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool.

4. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach with the egg yolks (set aside the egg whites), mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, hot sauce, and dehydrated potato flakes. Using a fork or a blender, mix until creamy and everything is well combined.

5. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to pipe into the egg whites.

6. Pipe the filling: Once chilled, take the mixture out of the refrigerator. Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to fill the egg whites. Pipe the mixture high to create the “tree” effect. Be as generous as you like.

7. Decorate: After filling the egg whites, it’s time to make them look festive. Sprinkle minced red Fresno chili pepper on top and then add small yellow bell pepper cutouts to look like stars. Finally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.

how to serve Deviled Egg Christmas Trees

Serving Deviled Egg Christmas Trees is simple. Arrange them on a festive platter and consider garnishing the platter with some fresh herbs or holly for a holiday touch. You can add small signs indicating their name or other fun tags to engage your guests. Serve them as an appetizer before the main meal, or alongside other finger foods at a party.

Ensure that they are served chilled or at room temperature. If serving at a holiday gathering, consider presenting them on a tiered platter to enhance the aesthetic appeal. This way, they can also attract attention and encourage guests to try them out.

how to store Deviled Egg Christmas Trees

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Place the remaining Deviled Egg Christmas Trees in an airtight container. Make sure to layer them carefully to avoid squishing them. If you can, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between layers to keep them pristine.

These eggs are best eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to serve them again. Avoid leaving them out at room temperature for extended periods, as with any egg-based dish.

tips to make Deviled Egg Christmas Trees

1. Egg boiling: For easy-to-peel eggs, consider using eggs that are slightly older, as they tend to peel more easily compared to fresh eggs.

2. Flavor variations: Feel free to experiment with the spices and seasonings in the filling. Add more hot sauce if you like spice, or swap smoked paprika for regular paprika for a milder flavor.

3. Texture: To add more texture, consider mixing in some finely chopped celery or green onions to the filling.

4. Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step. Chilling the filling makes it easier to pipe into the egg whites and enhances the flavors of the dish.

5. Presentation: To make them even more festive, consider dusting the tops with additional herbs or spices before serving.

6. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter: Instead of cutting stars by hand from the yellow bell pepper, use a small star-shaped cookie cutter for uniformity.

variation

You can easily modify Deviled Egg Christmas Trees to suit different tastes. Here are a few variations:

• Bacon Lovers: Add crispy crumbled bacon into the filling for a smoky flavor and crunch.
• Herbed Variation: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley for an earthy flavor.
• Avocado Twist: Incorporate mashed avocado into the filling instead of mayonnaise for a creamier and healthier version.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, replace the Fresno chili with jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Vegetarian Twist: To make these more plant-forward, you could use vegan mayonnaise and other plant-based ingredients to create a flavorful filling that everyone can enjoy.

FAQs

Can I prepare Deviled Egg Christmas Trees a day in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the eggs and the filling a day ahead. Just keep the egg whites and the filling separate and assemble them on the day of your gathering to ensure freshness.

Can I use other vegetables for decoration?

Absolutely! While we suggest yellow bell pepper and Fresno chilies, you can use any colorful vegetable or cut-out shapes that will complement your plate, like diced red bell peppers, olives, or even tiny pieces of cucumber.

How long can Deviled Egg Christmas Trees last in the fridge?

These tasty treats are best consumed within 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.

Can I freeze Deviled Egg Christmas Trees?

Deviled eggs do not freeze well as the texture of the eggs will change upon thawing. It is best to enjoy them fresh.

What can I serve alongside Deviled Egg Christmas Trees?

These festive deviled eggs pair well with a variety of appetizers, such as cheese platters, vegetable dips, or even meat and charcuterie boards. You can also serve them with toasted bread or crackers for extra crunch.

With this guide, you’re all set to create a delightful and festive dish that everyone will enjoy. Deviled Egg Christmas Trees are not only visually appealing but also a delicious addition to any holiday spread. Happy cooking and enjoy the holiday spirit with your delicious creations!

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