There’s something magical about combining simple ingredients to create something that not only tastes incredible but also looks like a work of art. As someone who loves spending time in the kitchen, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both fun to make and perfect for sharing. That’s why I fell in love with these Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. They’re festive, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a must-try for holiday gatherings or even a cozy night in.
These little Christmas trees are a delightful twist on traditional puff pastry appetizers. The flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry paired with the vibrant, herby flavor of pesto create a bite that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to impress your family with a creative snack, these pesto puff pastry trees are sure to steal the show. Plus, they’re customizable—you can add cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make them!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Puff Pastry: The star of this recipe, puff pastry is a light, flaky dough that bakes into golden, crispy layers. You can find it in the frozen section of most grocery stores. Make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using it.
Pesto: Pesto adds a burst of herby, garlicky flavor to these Christmas trees. You can use store-bought pesto for convenience or make your own at home with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Egg: An egg is used to create an egg wash, which gives the puff pastry a beautiful golden shine when baked. It also helps any additional toppings, like cheese, stick to the pastry.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the pesto perfectly. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Flour: A little flour is needed for dusting your work surface to prevent the puff pastry from sticking while you roll and shape it.
Ingredients List
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Flour, for dusting
How to Make Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Work Surface
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour to prevent the puff pastry from sticking.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface. Gently roll it out to smooth any creases and create an even surface.
Step 3: Spread the Pesto
Using a spoon or spatula, spread the pesto evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the pesto from oozing out during baking.
Step 4: Cut and Shape the Trees
Cut the puff pastry into triangles, about 2-3 inches wide at the base. These will be your Christmas trees. Make small cuts along the sides of each triangle to create “branches.” Twist the branches slightly to give the trees a festive, 3D look.
Step 5: Add the Egg Wash and Cheese
Brush each tree with the beaten egg wash to help them turn golden in the oven. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the trees for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Trees
Place the trees on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the trees cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Thaw the Puff Pastry Properly: Make sure your puff pastry is fully thawed before using it. If it’s too cold, it will crack when you try to roll or shape it.
- Don’t Overload with Pesto: While it’s tempting to add more pesto, too much can make the pastry soggy. Stick to a thin, even layer.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor and color.
- Work Quickly: Puff pastry is easier to handle when it’s cold, so try to work efficiently to keep it from getting too soft.
- Serve Fresh: These trees are best served warm, so bake them just before your guests arrive.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trees up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked trees and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different sauce instead of pesto?
Absolutely! Try using tomato basil sauce, garlic butter, or even a thin layer of marinara for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use vegan puff pastry, dairy-free pesto, and skip the egg wash or use a plant-based alternative.
What can I serve these with?
These pesto puff pastry trees pair well with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh green salad for a light meal.
Enjoy making and sharing these festive, flavorful treats!
