Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese

Name: Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 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: Holiday & Seasonal Feasts

Delight your holiday gatherings with these adorable Puff Pastry Christmas Trees filled with savory pesto and gooey cheese.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-04T22:57:51.406Z

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Pesto and Cheese are not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to make. Perfect for impressing guests at your holiday parties or as a delightful snack during festive gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Festive presentation that will wow your guests
Easy to make with store-bought puff pastry
Savory pesto and melted cheese create a delicious flavor combination

      

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

The holiday season is all about gathering with friends and family, and what better way to impress your guests than with these delightful Puff Pastry Christmas Trees? Their festive shape adds a touch of whimsy to your table, making them the perfect appetizer for any holiday party. Serve them warm alongside a selection of dips or as part of a larger festive spread.

These trees not only look good but also pack a rich flavor thanks to the combination of pesto and mozzarella. The vibrant green of the pesto against the golden, flaky pastry creates an eye-catching presentation that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, their bite-sized form makes them easy to enjoy in a casual setting.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With store-bought puff pastry as your base, you can whip these up in no time. The only preparation required is rolling out the pastry and cutting it into tree shapes, making it a stress-free option for busy hosts during the holiday rush.

Even those who may not consider themselves skilled in the kitchen can confidently tackle this recipe. The steps are straightforward, and the end result is undeniably impressive. You can even involve your kids in the fun of shaping and assembling the trees, making it a delightful family activity.

Customizable and Versatile

While this recipe features pesto and mozzarella, feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste. Consider adding cooked spinach for an extra layer of flavor, or switch up the cheese to a sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the trees to your preferences or dietary needs.

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees can also be made ahead of time. Simply assemble them and freeze before baking. When you're ready to serve, just pop them in the oven, and you'll have fresh, warm appetizers in no time. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these holiday treats:

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting.

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to craft your Puff Pastry Christmas Trees:

Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/8 inch thick.

Cut the Pastry into Tree Shapes

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into triangle shapes to resemble Christmas trees. You can make multiple layers for a more dimensional look.

Assemble the Trees

Spread a thin layer of pesto on each triangle and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Layer the triangles to create a tree effect.

Apply Egg Wash

Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden color when baked.

Bake the Trees

Place the assembled trees on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, ensure that the pastry is fully thawed before rolling it out. This will help you create the perfect flaky texture that puff pastry is known for. Additionally, dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking, making the cutting and shaping process much easier.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to your mozzarella filling. This will enhance the savory notes of your trees and give them a gourmet touch that your guests will love. Remember to experiment with different herbs and spices to find the perfect balance for your taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a side of marinara or a creamy dip to elevate the experience. You can also serve them alongside a charcuterie board, allowing guests to mix and match flavors as they enjoy the festive spread.

For a festive touch, garnish the serving platter with fresh herbs or edible flowers. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall presentation. Your guests will be delighted by the attention to detail, and it will make your holiday gathering all the more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto will add a fresh touch to your puff pastry trees.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these puff pastry trees?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked trees. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can get creative with fillings! Try using goat cheese, spinach, or even sweet fillings like Nutella for a dessert version.