Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese

Name: Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 1/2 cup pesto sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Flour, for dusting

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Ideas

Delightful and festive, these Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese are the perfect appetizer for your holiday gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:23:50.982Z

This festive treat combines flaky puff pastry with the rich flavors of pesto and cheese, making it a delightful addition to any holiday table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky, golden pastry that melts in your mouth
Savory pesto filling that adds a burst of flavor
Beautifully festive presentation, perfect for holiday parties

      

The Magic of Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a culinary marvel known for its flaky texture and buttery flavor. When baked, it puffs up beautifully, creating layers that are perfect for holding in delicious fillings. This versatile pastry can be transformed into a variety of shapes, making it an ideal choice for festive occasions like Christmas. In this recipe, we utilize its charm to create delightful Christmas trees that not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your holiday table.

The beauty of puff pastry lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create impressive dishes that will wow your guests. Whether you choose to use store-bought or homemade puff pastry, the key is to keep it cold until you’re ready to bake. This ensures that the layers remain distinct and create that signature puff when exposed to heat.

Pesto: A Flavor Powerhouse

Pesto is more than just a sauce; it's a flavor powerhouse that elevates any dish it graces. Made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto brings a bright, herbaceous note that complements the buttery pastry perfectly. In our Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, the pesto not only adds a burst of flavor but also a vibrant green color that enhances the festive presentation.

Using a high-quality pesto can make a significant difference in your dish. You can opt for store-bought varieties for convenience or whip up a homemade batch to control the flavors. Experimenting with different nuts or cheeses in your pesto can also add a unique twist, making your Christmas trees even more special.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese are not just delicious; they are the perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Their eye-catching shape and golden color bring a festive spirit to the table, while the savory filling appeals to both adults and children alike. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun snack, they are sure to impress your guests.

Additionally, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the filling according to your preferences. Feel free to add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese to create variations that suit your taste. These trees are not only a treat for the palate but also for the eyes, making them a delightful addition to your holiday menu.

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Trees

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1/2 cup pesto sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Flour, for dusting

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and cut it into tree shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.

Add Pesto and Cheese

Spread a thin layer of pesto on each pastry tree and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Assemble the Trees

Place another pastry tree on top of each and press down gently to seal the edges.

Brush with Egg Wash

Brush the tops of the trees with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your festive treat!

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are best served warm!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the festive experience, consider serving these puff pastry trees alongside a selection of dipping sauces. A tangy balsamic reduction or a creamy ranch dressing can provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors. You can also pair these treats with a refreshing salad or a charcuterie board to create a beautiful spread.

For a fun twist, try arranging the trees on a platter with some fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color. This not only adds to the presentation but also offers a delightful aroma that complements the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing these puff pastry trees is simple. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To maintain their flaky texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy. A quick bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes should do the trick.

Freezing is also an option if you want to prepare these ahead of time. Assemble the trees without baking, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Try

While the classic pesto and cheese combination is delightful, don’t hesitate to get creative with your fillings. Consider using spinach and ricotta for a creamy, comforting alternative, or try a blend of roasted vegetables for a hearty twist. You could also incorporate meats like prosciutto or salami for an added savory kick.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or herbs de Provence into the cheese mixture to give your trees an extra layer of flavor. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at your gathering finds something they love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto will add a personal touch to your Puff Pastry Trees.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze these before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled trees and bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties or add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or olives.