How To Bake With Frozen Spinach

How to Incorporate Frozen Spinach into Your Baking

When it comes to adding a nutritious boost to your baked goods, frozen spinach is a versatile and convenient option. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, frozen spinach can elevate the nutritional value of your favorite baked treats. Whether you’re making savory muffins, quiches, or even bread, here are some creative ways to incorporate frozen spinach into your baking endeavors.

1. Spinach and Feta Muffins

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a muffin tin. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, thaw 1 cup of frozen spinach and squeeze out any excess moisture. Add the spinach to the dry ingredients along with 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese. In another bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1 cup of milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Spinach and Cheese Quiche

For a delightful brunch option, consider making a spinach and cheese quiche. Start by preparing a pie crust and pre-baking it for 10 minutes. In a bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Thaw and drain 1 1/2 cups of frozen spinach and spread it over the bottom of the pie crust. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the spinach, then pour the egg mixture on top. Bake the quiche at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set.

3. Spinach and Parmesan Bread

For a savory twist on traditional bread, try incorporating frozen spinach and Parmesan cheese into your dough. Start by proofing 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm water. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of thawed and drained frozen spinach, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, then shape it into a loaf and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

4. Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Scones

For a delightful addition to your brunch spread, consider making spinach and sun-dried tomato scones. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cut in 1/4 cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1 cup of thawed and drained frozen spinach and 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup of milk and 1 egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Pat the dough into a circle and cut it into wedges. Bake the scones at 400°F for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

With these creative ideas, you can easily incorporate frozen spinach into your baking repertoire, adding a nutritious twist to your favorite recipes. Whether you’re making savory muffins, quiches, bread, or scones, frozen spinach can bring a pop of color and a boost of nutrients to your baked goods.