Save Celebrate the holiday season with a Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer that is as delightful to look at as it is to taste. This savory treat combines flaky puff pastry with a luscious filling of herbed cream cheese and vibrant basil pesto, creating a festive centerpiece perfect for your holiday gatherings. Its elegant twist design and golden-brown finish are sure to impress guests while offering a delicious vegetarian option.
Save Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or simply want to add some holiday spirit to your appetizers, this puff pastry tree combines visual charm with savory flavors. Each twisted branch reveals layers of buttery pastry and aromatic filling, creating a treat that excites both the eyes and palate.
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: 2 sheets (about 250 g each) puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- Filling: 120 g cream cheese (softened), 2 tbsp basil pesto, 1 garlic clove (minced), 30 g grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper (to taste)
- Topping: 1 egg (beaten for egg wash), 1 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, pesto, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 3. Unroll one puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a 1 cm border.
- 4. Place the second puff pastry sheet on top, pressing gently to seal.
- 5. Using a sharp knife, cut the shape of a large Christmas tree (triangle with a trunk) through both layers. Remove excess pastry and save for decorations.
- 6. Starting from the bottom of the tree, cut horizontal strips (about 2 cm wide) on both sides, leaving the center intact as the trunk.
- 7. Twist each strip away from the center 2–3 times to form branches.
- 8. Use leftover pastry to cut out stars or ornaments and place them on the tree.
- 9. Brush the entire tree with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and poppy seeds.
- 10. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- 11. Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the puff pastry remains chilled until you are ready to work with it to maintain its flaky texture. When twisting the strips, be gentle to prevent tearing. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and press the edges firmly when layering the two sheets to avoid leaking filling during baking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try swapping basil pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or olive tapenade to introduce new flavors. For a non-vegetarian twist, add thin slices of prosciutto between the layers or incorporated into the filling. Experiment with different seeds or herbs on top for a personalized touch.
Serviervorschläge
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with sparkling white wine or a festive cocktail to complement its rich flavors. Serve warm or at room temperature for ease during parties. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or small edible decorations for an added holiday flair.
Save With its charming presentation and delicious taste, this Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer is sure to be a standout at your holiday table. Its ease of preparation and festive appearance make it a beloved choice to share warmth and joy with friends and family during the season.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of puff pastry works best?
Use thawed, high-quality store-bought puff pastry sheets for best results; homemade can also be used if preferred.
- → Can I substitute the cheese filling?
Yes, variations like sun-dried tomato pesto or tapenade can be added for different flavor profiles.
- → How do I shape the pastry into a tree?
Cut a large triangle with a trunk shape from two stacked sheets, then slice horizontal strips on sides and twist to form branches.
- → Are there any allergen concerns to note?
This contains gluten, milk, and egg; sesame and poppy seeds are optional toppings; check ingredient labels for nut traces in pesto.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve warm or at room temperature as a festive appetizer alongside sparkling white wine or cocktails.