This fun puff pastry Christmas tree is both festive and tasty! Filled with cheese, herbs, and your favorite fillings, it looks great on any holiday table.
Making it is so easy; just cut, fill, and bake! I love to serve it with a side of dipping sauce. Don’t be surprised if everyone wants a piece—it’s hard to resist! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the show! If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough, but it will have a different texture. If you’d like, you can also make homemade puff pastry, but store-bought is much easier and quick!
Cheese: I love the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella for the rich flavor and gooey texture. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try vegan cheese alternatives! You can also use cheddar or a cheese blend if preferred.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tang! If you don’t have any or prefer something milder, try finely chopped red peppers or olives instead. They still add great flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Fresh Herbs: Basil is my favorite for this recipe, but you can easily switch it up! Use thyme or parsley if you don’t have basil. Dried herbs work too—just use less, as they’re stronger.
How Do I Cut and Twist the Pastry Like a Pro?
Cutting the pastry into the tree shape and twisting it can be tricky but fun! Here are some steps to help:
- Start by cutting a triangle shape with a small rectangle (trunk) at the bottom. Make sure both sides are even for a balanced look.
- Next, make horizontal cuts about 1 inch apart on both sides. Don’t cut all the way through—leave the center uncut so you can twist the branches.
- Now, twist each strip gently away from the center. Alternate the direction as you go; it creates a lovely layered effect.
Practice makes perfect! This technique really elevates the presentation of your Christmas tree pastry.
How to Make a Savory Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary mix)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you can enjoy your delicious Christmas tree in about 40-45 minutes! Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 9×12 inches. Make sure it’s even so that it bakes nicely!
3. Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended and spreadable.
4. Spread the Filling:
Spread the cheesy mixture evenly over the entire puff pastry sheet, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the edges. This will help it seal during baking.
5. Shape the Tree:
Now, if you have a second sheet of puff pastry, place it on top of the filled pastry. If you’re using just one sheet, simply fold it over to create a double layer. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into a triangle shape with a small rectangle trunk at the bottom, approximately 9×12 inches in total.
6. Cut and Twist:
Starting from the center trunk, carefully make horizontal cuts on both sides of the triangle shape, about 1 inch apart. Be careful not to cut all the way through—leave the center intact to form the trunk. Next, gently twist each strip away from the center, alternating directions to create branches.
7. Brush with Egg Wash:
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the entire tree with the beaten egg. This will give it a beautiful golden color when baked!
8. Add Herbs and Cheese:
Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs and a bit more Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and a festive touch.
9. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tree is puffed up and golden brown.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before transferring the savory tree to a serving plate. Serve warm with marinara sauce, pesto, or your favorite dipping sauce!
This stunning and delicious Savory Puff Pastry Christmas Tree will surely impress your guests at any holiday gathering. Enjoy the festive season with this cheesy delight! 🎄
Can I Use Store-Bought Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is convenient and saves time. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
What Can I Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use finely chopped roasted red peppers or olives for a different flavor profile. They’ll still bring a tasty touch to your Christmas tree!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover puff pastry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Puff Pastry Tree Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and shape the tree a few hours in advance; just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving for the best texture!
