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. Crispy puff pastry layers with savory ham and melted cheese create an irresistible treat that’s both fun to make and impressive to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 12 slices of 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)
• Optional: thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam
• Optional: star-shaped cheese cutouts for decoration

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Place one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a clean surface. Layer evenly with cheese slices, then ham slices. Top with the second puff pastry sheet and gently press down to seal.
3. Step 3: Cut the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips using a sharp knife.
4. Step 4: Fold each strip back and forth, accordion style, onto a wooden skewer to form a tree shape.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush this glaze over each pastry tree. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
6. Step 6: Arrange the trees on the baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.
7. Step 7: Let the trees cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Spread a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory flavor boost.
• Use star-shaped cheese cutouts as festive tree toppers to enhance presentation.
• For a vegetarian version, replace ham with turkey or a spinach-artichoke spread.

Storage

Store leftover puff pastry trees in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. They can also be enjoyed cold at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these puff pastry trees in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the trees and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just cover them well to prevent the pastry from drying out.

What types of cheese work best for this recipe?

Cheddar, gouda, Swiss, and mozzarella all melt well and complement the ham nicely. Feel free to mix cheeses or choose your favorite.

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees Recipe

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4.7 from 131 reviews

Celebrate the holidays with these delightful Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, featuring layers of savory ham and melty cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect as festive appetizers or party snacks, these golden, buttery tree-shaped treats combine classic flavors with a fun, eye-catching presentation.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 12 puff pastry trees 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Puff Pastry & Fillings

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

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)

Optional Flavor Enhancements

• Thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam (to spread under the cheese)
• Star-shaped cheese cutouts (for decorative tree toppers)
• Swap ham for turkey or spinach-artichoke spread (for 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 warm for the best flavor and texture, though they remain delicious at room temperature.

Notes

• Use any cheese that melts well and matches your taste—cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella are great choices.
• For a sweet-savory twist, spread a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese before layering.
• Star-shaped cheese cutouts make festive tree toppers and add visual appeal.
• To make a vegetarian version, swap deli ham for turkey slices or a spinach-artichoke spread.
• Ensure puff pastry is properly thawed to make layering and folding easier.
• Brush the puff pastry trees well with the garlic butter glaze to achieve a golden and flavorful crust.

Keywords: ham and cheese appetizer, puff pastry Christmas trees, holiday appetizer, festive snacks, savory puff pastries, party finger foods