Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe
A delightful and festive Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Tree that combines flaky puff pastry with a savory garlic, parsley, and mozzarella filling. Perfect as a holiday appetizer or party snack, this visually stunning treat is easy to make and bursting with cheesy goodness.
- Author: Rita
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pastry
- 2 sheets of puff pastry, defrosted
Filling
- 2–3 garlic cloves, grated
- 3/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Egg Wash
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C/Gas mark 6) and line a baking tray with baking paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, grated garlic, chopped parsley, and salt until well combined. This mixture will add a flavorful and aromatic layer to the pastry.
- Assemble Pastry Layers: Place one sheet of puff pastry on the prepared baking tray. Spread the garlic-parsley butter mixture evenly over this sheet. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top before covering it with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- Cut Christmas Tree Shape: Using a knife and a ruler, carefully cut out a large Christmas tree shape from the layered puff pastry. Optionally, cut out some star shapes from the leftover pastry to decorate the tree. Discard any remaining excess pastry.
- Create Branches: Cut equal slits along both sides of the tree shape, leaving some space in the middle to maintain the trunk. Gently twist each slit to mimic tree branches, adding a decorative effect and more texture to the pastry.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush this evenly over the entire puff pastry Christmas tree and any star decorations to give a beautiful golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy to the touch.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve your Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with marinara sauce, ketchup, or your favorite dipping sauce for a festive and delicious appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry sheets are fully defrosted before assembling to prevent tearing.
- Use cold butter softened just enough to mix easily for the best consistency of filling.
- Twist the branches gently to avoid breaking the pastry layers.
- Allow the pastry to cool for a few minutes after baking to help the cheese set slightly for easier serving.
- This recipe can be customized with different cheeses or herbs according to taste.
Keywords: Cheese Puff Pastry, Christmas Tree Appetizer, Holiday Snacks, Festive Appetizer, Puff Pastry Recipe