Description
Delightful and festive Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees featuring layers of flaky puff pastry, savory pesto, and melted provolone cheese. These charming, easy-to-make appetizers are perfect for holiday parties, combining the crispiness of baked pastry with vibrant herbal flavors and creamy cheese. Finished with a garlic butter glaze and optional cheese star toppers, they bring a touch of whimsy and elegance to your seasonal spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Trees
- 2 puff pastry sheets
- ¼ cup prepared pesto sauce (plus more for serving)
- 6 ounces provolone cheese slices
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Cheese stars (optional, see notes)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Rest Puff Pastry: Allow refrigerated puff pastry sheets to come to room temperature for 5 minutes or frozen sheets to thaw for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly dust a cutting board with flour. Unfold one puff pastry sheet and roll it into a 10 x 12-inch rectangle. Repeat with the second sheet for uniform thickness and size.
- Assemble Layers: Evenly brush pesto sauce over the entire surface of one pastry sheet, then layer sliced provolone cheese on top. Cover with the second pastry sheet to form a filled sandwich of pesto and cheese.
- Cut into Strips and Shape Trees: Cut the stacked puff pastry along the 12-inch side into twelve 1-inch-wide strips. Holding each strip, fold it in a tapered zig-zag pattern to mimic a tree shape, placing the bottom 2-3 inches flat and folding upwards. Insert a skewer vertically through the center to secure the shape.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place six trees evenly spaced on each prepared baking sheet to allow room for puffing and even baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk the egg and heavy cream until smooth. Brush this mixture over the tops and sides of each pastry tree to ensure a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the Trees: Bake for 20-22 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown and fully cooked through with a crisp texture.
- Brush with Garlic Butter and Garnish: Combine melted butter with garlic powder and salt, then brush the mixture onto the hot trees immediately after baking. Optionally, add a touch of extra pesto and top with decorative cheese stars for a festive finish.
Notes
- If using frozen puff pastry, be sure to thaw completely for best texture and pliability.
- Cheese stars can be made by cutting shapes from extra provolone slices for charming decorative toppers.
- Try brushing the trees with garlic butter alone first before adding extra pesto to control flavor intensity.
- Skewers help maintain the tree shape and make these easy to serve as finger food.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a bowl of warm soup for a cozy holiday appetizer spread.
