February 05, 2026

๐†๐š๐ฆ๐ž ๐ƒ๐š๐ฒ ๐…๐š๐ฏ๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ž: ๐๐ž๐œ๐š๐ง, ๐’๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐š๐œ๐ก & ๐‚๐ก๐ž๐ž๐ฌ๐ž ๐…๐จ๐จ๐ญ๐›๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐š๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐ฒ

The pecans add a subtle nutty depth and texture that elevates this savory dish beyond the classic appetizer. Perfect for game day entertaining, this pastry is designed to be both visually fun and full of flavorโ€”an easy, shareable centerpiece that delivers on taste, texture, and crowd appeal.

  • SERVES: 12
  • TOTAL TIME: 60 min
  • PREP TIME: 40 min
Ingredients
  • Puff Pastry Sheets โ€“ 2
  • Frozen Spinach, thawed & well-drained โ€“ 1 cup
  • Mozzarella Cheese โ€“ 1 cup
  • Feta Cheese โ€“ โ…“ cup
  • Parmesan Cheese โ€“ โ…“ cup
  • Ricotta Cheese โ€“ ยฝ cup
  • Chopped Pecans โ€“ ยฝ cup
  • Garlic Powder (optional) โ€“ ยฝ tsp
  • Salt and Pepper (optional) โ€“ ยผ tsp
  • Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds โ€“ for garnish
  • Egg, whisked โ€“ 1 large (for egg wash)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Preheat oven to 375ยฐF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a bowl, mix spinach, all cheeses, chopped pecans, and seasonings until well combined.

  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out both puff pastry sheets.

  • Use a football-shaped mold or freehand an oval shape. Save pastry scraps for decorating. Place one pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. Spread filling evenly, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the second pastry sheet on top. Press edges together with your fingers or a fork to seal. Gently press a center line (do not cut through).

  • On each side, cut horizontal strips about ยพ-inch wide. Twist each strip gently to create a spiral โ€œfootballโ€ look. Brush entire pastry with egg wash.

  • Use pastry scraps to create football laces, brush with egg wash, and attach on top. Sprinkle with extra chopped pecans and sesame or poppy seeds, if desired.

  • Bake 20โ€“25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed. Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.