Spinach and Feta Cookies (Spanakopita Cookies)
Spinach and Feta Cookies, often called Spanakopita Cookies, are a savory twist inspired by the classic Greek spinach pie. These soft, cheesy bites combine fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, herbs, and a tender cookie-like texture into one delicious snack. They are crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and packed with Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
Unlike sweet cookies, these savory treats work beautifully as appetizers, brunch additions, lunchbox snacks, or light side dishes. The spinach provides freshness, feta adds a salty creamy bite, and mozzarella gives the cookies a soft cheesy texture. Dill and scallions bring bright herbal flavor that makes these cookies taste just like mini handheld spanakopita pies.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple and quick it is to prepare. Everything comes together in one bowl with minimal effort, making these cookies perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or entertaining guests. They taste delicious warm from the oven but are equally enjoyable at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: About 12 cookies
Ingredients
1 egg, lightly beaten
4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
¼ cup Greek yogurt
1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach, finely chopped
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
â…“ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup self-rising flour
OR
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon chopped dill
1 tablespoon chopped scallions (green onions)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Finely chop the spinach and gently pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, olive oil, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
Add the chopped spinach, feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, dill, and scallions. Stir until evenly combined.
If using self-rising flour, add it directly to the mixture. If using all-purpose flour, first combine it with baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a separate bowl.
Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Season lightly with black pepper and additional salt if needed. Be careful because feta cheese is naturally salty.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking tray, spacing them slightly apart.
Lightly flatten the tops with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 16–18 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm or at room temperature with yogurt dip, tzatziki sauce, or soup.
Tips
Chop spinach finely
Smaller spinach pieces blend better into the dough and help the cookies hold together evenly.
Remove excess moisture
Spinach contains a lot of water, so drying it well prevents soggy cookies.
Use full-fat feta cheese
Full-fat feta provides the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
Don’t overmix the dough
Overmixing can make the cookies dense instead of light and tender.
Taste before adding salt
Feta cheese is naturally salty, so taste carefully before adding extra seasoning.
Use parchment paper
Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
Add extra herbs for flavor
Fresh parsley, mint, or oregano can be added for even more Mediterranean flavor.
Let them cool slightly
The cookies firm up a bit as they cool, making them easier to handle.
Serve with dips
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or whipped feta dip pair wonderfully with these cookies.
Store properly
Keep leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness because of the cheese and spinach.
Variations
Spanakopita Puff Version
Add small pieces of crispy phyllo dough into the batter for extra crunch and traditional spanakopita texture.
Cheddar Spinach Cookies
Replace mozzarella with sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
Garlic Herb Version
Add minced garlic and extra herbs like basil or oregano for stronger savory flavor.
Spicy Variation
Mix red chili flakes or diced jalapeños into the dough for gentle heat.
Mini Muffin Style
Bake the batter in mini muffin tins instead of cookie shapes for bite-sized appetizers.
Whole Wheat Version
Replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Protein-Packed Cookies
Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a more filling snack.
Ricotta and Spinach Cookies
Replace some feta with ricotta cheese for a softer and creamier texture.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Mediterranean Deluxe Version
Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes for even more Mediterranean flavor.
Q&A
Why are they called Spanakopita Cookies?
They are inspired by the flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita but baked in cookie form instead of pastry layers.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before using.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be baked ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with them?
They pair wonderfully with soup, salads, tzatziki, or as part of a brunch spread.
Can I use another cheese instead of feta?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta can be used, though the flavor will change slightly.
Are these cookies soft or crispy?
They are soft and tender inside with lightly crisp edges.
Can I make them smaller for appetizers?
Absolutely. Smaller cookies are perfect for party platters or snacks.
Do they taste good cold?
Yes, they are delicious warm or chilled, making them great for meal prep.
Nutrition
Per Serving (Approximate):
Calories: 140
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 260mg
Conclusion
Spinach and Feta Cookies are a fun and flavorful savory snack inspired by the beloved Greek classic spanakopita. Packed with spinach, creamy feta, herbs, and melty cheese, these cookies deliver comforting Mediterranean flavor in a simple handheld form.
They are easy to prepare, versatile enough for different occasions, and perfect for serving as appetizers, snacks, or light meals. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packed for lunch the next day, these savory cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite for anyone who loves cheesy, herb-filled Mediterranean dishes.