Description
These Puff Pastry Pesto Christmas Trees are a festive and easy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Using flaky puff pastry layered with fragrant basil pesto and Parmesan cheese, these bite-sized treats are shaped into charming tree forms and baked to a golden crisp. They bring a deliciously savory touch to your Christmas party with minimal prep and maximum holiday cheer.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
Filling
- 3-4 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Skewers (optional, for shaping the trees)
Instructions
- Thaw Pastry: If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to work with.
- Spread the Filling: On a clean, flat surface, unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet. Evenly spread a thin layer of basil pesto over the entire surface of the pastry. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the pesto layer.
- Cut the Pastry: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the puff pastry into strips about 1 inch wide, making sure the length is maintained for shaping.
- Create Tree Shapes: Optionally, pierce one end of each pastry strip with a skewer to help shape it. Fold each strip back and forth in a zigzag pattern to form the shape of a Christmas tree. Secure the shape by piercing the other end onto the skewer if used.
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Add Egg Wash: Place the shaped pastry trees carefully onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg to help create a beautiful golden-brown finish during baking.
- Bake: Bake the puff pastry trees in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are puffed up, golden brown, and flaky.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow the pastry trees to cool slightly before serving. For extra flavor, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- For best puff pastry results, keep it cold until ready to use and avoid over-handling to maintain flakiness.
- Skewers are optional but help maintain the tree shape while baking.
- These pastries can be made ahead and baked just before serving for fresh warmth and crispness.
- Try using different pesto varieties like sun-dried tomato pesto for a flavor twist.
- The egg wash gives a shiny golden finish but can be omitted for a vegan option.
