Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Pesto & Cheese Delight Recipe
A festive and flavorful Puff Pastry Christmas Tree filled with aromatic basil pesto and gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make appetizer features layers of crisp, golden puff pastry twisted into a tree shape, perfect for holiday celebrations and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
- 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
- 100g basil pesto
- 120g shredded mozzarella
- 1 beaten egg (for brushing)
Garnish
- Pomegranate seeds or cherry tomatoes (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the puff pastry to a golden crisp.
- Assemble Layers: Place one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a piece of parchment paper. Evenly spread the 100g of basil pesto over the pastry surface, then sprinkle 120g of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Cover this with the second sheet of puff pastry to create a layered effect.
- Shape the Tree: Cut the assembled puff pastry into a large triangle shape, resembling a Christmas tree. Then, carefully cut the side strips and twist them to form branches, giving the tree its iconic layered look. Use spare pastry scraps to cut out a small star to place on the top of the tree.
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire tree generously with the beaten egg to give it a glossy, golden finish once baked.
- Bake: Transfer the prepared parchment paper with the shaped pastry onto a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked and cooled slightly, garnish the Christmas tree with pomegranate seeds or cherry tomatoes and fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive flair and added color. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful holiday appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry sheets are thawed properly before assembling for easier handling and better puffing.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like fontina or gouda for different flavors.
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and twisting to avoid tearing the pastry.
- Brush edges carefully with egg wash to help seal and give a golden color.
- Garnishes like pomegranate seeds add a burst of freshness and color but are optional.
Keywords: puff pastry, Christmas tree appetizer, pesto cheese pastry, holiday appetizer, festive snacks, baked puff pastry
