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Christmas Puff Pastry Trees Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a festive and savory appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of ham and pepper jack cheese are sandwiched between flaky puff pastry sheets, then shaped into charming tree forms, baked to golden perfection, and topped with cheddar cheese stars. The trees are brushed with a flavorful butter and herb mixture, making them irresistible and visually appealing treats to serve warm.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry and Filling

  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
  • 6 slices ham, thinly sliced
  • 6 slices pepper jack cheese

Butter Glaze

  • 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt

Topping

  • 4 ounces cheddar cheese, for star toppers

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Assemble the pastry layers: Roll out one sheet of puff pastry evenly on a flat surface. Layer the thinly sliced ham and pepper jack cheese evenly over the pastry. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top, creating a puff pastry sandwich with filling inside.
  3. Slice into strips: Using a pizza slicer or a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into 8 equal strips, about 1 inch wide each, to prepare for shaping the trees.
  4. Shape the trees: Take each strip and accordion-fold it into a tree shape by starting wide at the bottom and tapering to the top. Insert a skewer through the center of each folded strip to hold the tree shape, making sure to leave some space at the top for the cheese star topper. Place the shaped trees on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake the trees: Bake the puff pastry trees in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
  6. Prepare the butter glaze: While the trees bake, mix the melted butter, fresh parsley, onion powder, and garlic salt in a small bowl to create a flavorful glaze.
  7. Glaze and cool slightly: After baking, brush the butter mixture over the warm puff pastry trees to add flavor and shine. Allow the trees to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
  8. Cut cheddar stars and garnish: Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the cheddar cheese into stars. Place a cheese star on the top of each skewer, completing the festive look. Serve the trees warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute pepper jack cheese with any cheese of your choice that melts well, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
  • Make sure the puff pastry is well thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
  • Use parchment paper to avoid the puff pastry sticking to the pan.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra cheese or veggies inside the pastry.
  • These appetizers are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated gently in the oven if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tree
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Find it online: https://yumyy.com/christmas-puff-pastry-trees-recipe/