Print

Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Print Recipe

Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are an easy and festive holiday treat that combines flaky, buttery puff pastry with sweet or savory fillings. Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings, these visually stunning snacks can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan options. Quick to bake and fun to assemble, they make a delightful centerpiece for your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • Puff Pastry Sheets (thawed if frozen) – typically 2 sheets
  • Egg Wash – 1 beaten egg

Fillings (choose based on preference)

  • Cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, or vegan cheese substitutes) – approx. 1 cup shredded or spreadable
  • Herbs and Spices (fresh or dried parsley, oregano, garlic powder) – to taste
  • Optional Savory Add-ins: pesto, ham, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, caramelized onions – 2-3 tablespoons each
  • Optional Sweet Add-ins: Nutella, chocolate chips, cinnamon sugar – 2-3 tablespoons
  • For Vegan Egg Wash Alternative: plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy milk) – 1-2 tablespoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to package instructions if frozen. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all fillings and tools needed for assembly to streamline the process.
  2. Cut the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry. Cut it into large triangle shapes approximately 8 inches tall to resemble Christmas trees.
  3. Add Fillings: Spread your choice of fillings evenly on one triangle, leaving a small border around the edges to ensure a good seal during baking.
  4. Layer and Shape: Place another triangle on top of the filled one. Press lightly around the edges to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut horizontal slits from the sides toward the center without cutting through the center line. Twist each strip slightly outward to form the tree branches.
  5. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the top of each shaped tree with beaten egg (or plant-based milk for vegan option) to promote browning and shine. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Notes

  • Keep puff pastry chilled until ready to use for best puffiness during baking.
  • Use a sharp knife for clean cuts to create crisp edges and detailed branches.
  • Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage and ensure even baking.
  • Apply egg wash gently but thoroughly for consistent golden color and shine.
  • Monitor the oven carefully as baking times may vary to prevent burning.
  • Leftover trees can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Unbaked shaped trees can be frozen on a baking sheet and then transferred to a freezer bag; bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
  • Reheat leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore flakiness without sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: puff pastry, Christmas, holiday treat, appetizers, festive snack, sweet and savory, easy baking, gluten free, vegan option

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