Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees Recipe

Introduction

These Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Layered with savory ham and gooey cheese, they bake into golden, flaky treats that look as delightful as they taste.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
• 12 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 12 slices cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella)
• 24 wooden skewers
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional for holiday flair)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Lay out one sheet of puff pastry on a flat surface. Arrange the cheese slices evenly over it, followed by the ham slices. Place the second puff pastry sheet on top and press down lightly to seal.
3. Step 3: Cut the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Thread each strip onto a wooden skewer and fold it back and forth to create a tree shape.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture generously over each pastry tree.
5. Step 5: Place the trees on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Allow the trees to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm but also taste great at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory twist.
• Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top of each tree for a festive decoration.
• Swap ham for turkey or a spinach-artichoke spread to make a vegetarian version.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. These pastries taste best fresh but can be served at room temperature as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely according to package instructions before assembling the trees for best results.

How do I keep the trees from getting soggy?

Using thin slices of ham and cheese and pressing the puff pastry layers firmly helps prevent sogginess. Also, brush the butter mixture before baking to promote a crisp finish.

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees Recipe

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4.7 from 78 reviews

Celebrate the holidays with these charming Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, a festive appetizer featuring layers of flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese. Perfectly golden, buttery, and garnished with garlic and parsley, these bite-sized treats bring a delightful savory-sweet balance to your holiday spread.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 24 puff pastry Christmas trees 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Puff Pastry & Fillings

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella work well)

Glaze & Garnishes

• 24 wooden skewers
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional holiday flair)

Optional Flavor Enhancements

• Thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam (to spread under the cheese for a sweet-savory combination)
• Star-shaped cheese cutouts (for decorative “tree toppers”)
• Swap ham for turkey or spinach-artichoke spread (for a vegetarian variation)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Assemble Layers: Place one sheet of thawed puff pastry flat on a clean surface. Layer evenly with cheese slices followed by deli ham slices. Top with the second puff pastry sheet and gently press down to seal the layers together.
3. Cut Strips: Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Carefully fold each strip back and forth, accordion style, onto a wooden skewer to shape it into a festive tree shape.
4. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over each puff pastry tree, adding a sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds if desired for extra holiday flair.
5. Bake: Arrange the assembled trees on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is fully puffed and golden brown.
6. Cool & Serve: Allow the puff pastry trees to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture, though they remain delicious at room temperature.

Notes

• For a sweet-savory twist, spread a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese before layering ham.
• Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top of each tree as festive toppers.
• Substitute ham with turkey slices or a spinach-artichoke spread to make a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before assembling to avoid cracking during baking.
• Wooden skewers help maintain the tree shape but be cautious when serving—remove skewers before eating or warn guests.

Keywords: Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry, Christmas Tree Appetizer, Holiday Finger Food, Savory Puff Pastry, Festive Appetizer