Festive Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe for Holidays

Festive gatherings sparkle with this delightful cheesy ham puff pastry Christmas tree that combines elegant presentation and irresistible flavors.

Every holiday table deserves a show-stopping centerpiece that wows guests and delights taste buds.

Flaky golden pastry wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese creates a culinary masterpiece that looks as incredible as it tastes.

The intricate tree shape transforms a simple appetizer into a conversation starter that everyone will adore.

Rich, buttery layers intertwine with salty ham and gooey cheese, promising a delectable experience.

Warm from the oven, this festive treat brings joy and deliciousness to your seasonal celebrations.

You’ll want to make this impressive appetizer for every holiday gathering.

Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Tree Ingredient Rundown

• Puff Pastry Sheets: The foundational base that creates the flaky, golden structure of the Christmas tree.
• Ham: A savory protein that adds rich flavor and texture to the pastry.
• Cheese: Provides creamy, melty goodness and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy, sharp flavor that complements the ham and cheese.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish to the pastry tree.

• Butter, Flour, Milk: Essential components for creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
• Cheese for Sauce: Melts into the base to create a rich, flavorful accompaniment.
• Egg: Used for egg wash to help achieve a golden, shiny exterior on the pastry.

• Salt, Pepper: Provide basic seasoning to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Equipment for Assembling Puff Pastry Trees

• Baking Sheet: Large, flat pan for even baking and easy transfer.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps with clean release.
• Rolling Pin: Helps roll out pastry sheet evenly and smoothly.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting precise tree shape and branches.
• Pastry Brush: Used for applying egg wash to create golden shine.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Small Saucepan: Needed for preparing cheese sauce.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.

Directions for Festive Ham Puff Pastry Tree

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pastry

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keep the puff pastry sheets chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use them.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Layers

Gently roll out one pastry sheet on a clean surface.

Spread a thin, even layer of tangy mustard across the pastry.

Carefully arrange slices of savory ham and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.

Top with the second pastry sheet to complete the layers.

Step 3: Shape Festive Tree Design

Transform the layered pastry into a whimsical Christmas tree shape.

Cut the pastry to create a triangle outline.

Design 1-inch wide branches along the sides of the tree.

Use remaining pastry scraps to create decorative elements like stars or ornaments.

Step 4: Add Delightful Twists

Starting from the bottom of the tree, gently twist each branch 1-2 times.

As you move upward, reduce the twisting motion near the top to maintain the tree’s delicate shape.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the entire pastry tree with a glossy egg wash to create a beautiful golden finish.

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry turns crisp and golden brown.

Step 6: Craft Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Sprinkle in flour and whisk to create a smooth base.

Gradually pour in milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps.

Add shredded cheese and your favorite seasonings, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Final Festive Touches

Adorn the baked pastry tree with the decorative cut-outs.

Dust lightly with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Serve the Christmas tree alongside the warm, velvety cheese sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for Cheesy Puff Pastry Layers

• Keep puff pastry refrigerated until just before use to maintain its flaky, crisp texture and prevent butter from melting.
• Create an elegant tree shape by twisting branches less near the top and more toward the bottom for a natural, tapered appearance.
• Cut 1-inch wide branches consistently to ensure even baking and a professional-looking Christmas tree design.
• Brush pastry with egg wash for a golden, shiny finish that adds beautiful color and helps branches stick together.
• Whisk milk gradually into flour-butter mixture to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy cheese sauce for dipping.

Creative Ideas for Puff Pastry Tree Fillings

• Gluten-Free Holiday Tree: Replace puff pastry with gluten-free puff pastry or phyllo dough. Use dairy-free cheese and turkey ham for additional dietary needs.
• Vegetarian Christmas Delight: Swap ham with roasted vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Use plant-based cheese for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Christmas Option: Substitute puff pastry with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant layers. Use prosciutto and Swiss cheese for protein and flavor.
• Mediterranean Inspired Version: Replace ham with prosciutto, add sun-dried tomatoes, and use feta cheese. Incorporate herbs like oregano and basil for Mediterranean flair.

Serving Up Ham Puff Pastry Trees for Gatherings

• Holiday Party Centerpiece: Position this stunning pastry tree as a dramatic centerpiece that instantly draws guests' eyes and sparks conversation during festive gatherings.
• Dipping Delight: Serve the cheesy sauce in a small bowl alongside the tree, allowing guests to break off crispy branches and dunk them into the warm, creamy mixture for an interactive eating experience.
• Brunch Brilliance: Transform this recipe into a morning showstopper by pairing it with a light winter salad and mimosas, creating a memorable weekend breakfast or brunch spread.
• Cocktail Companion: Slice the pastry tree into smaller sections and serve as elegant appetizers during holiday cocktail parties, perfectly complementing wine or festive drinks.

Puff Pastry Tree Storage

• Store leftover pastry tree in an airtight container. Keeps fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Wrap carefully to prevent pastry from getting soggy.
• Wrap completely cooled pastry tree in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place pastry on baking sheet, cover loosely with foil. Warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Uncover last 3 minutes to crisp edges.
• Quickly reheat in short 15-20 second bursts. Pastry may lose crispness, so oven method is preferred for maintaining texture and flavor.

FAQs

• How do I prevent the pastry from sticking to the work surface?

Dust your work surface with flour before rolling out the pastry sheet. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to handle the delicate pastry.

• Can I use different types of ham or cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ham with prosciutto, turkey ham, or bacon. For cheese, try gruyère, swiss, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the tree shape and can help with decorating the pastry. The cheesy, hammy filling is tasty and not too complicated for children to enjoy.

• What if my pastry branches aren't even?

Don’t worry! Slight variations in branch size add a rustic, homemade charm to the Christmas tree. Just aim to keep the overall shape consistent and the twists similar.

Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Tree Holiday Magic

• Impress guests with a visually stunning edible Christmas tree that doubles as a delicious appetizer.
• Easy step-by-step process transforms basic ingredients into a sophisticated party centerpiece anyone can create.
• Engage kids in decorating and twisting branches, making cooking a playful and interactive experience for all ages.
• Minimal ingredients and straightforward assembly mean you can whip up this delightful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cheesy Ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Holiday magic shines through this cheesy ham puff pastry christmas tree, creating a festive centerpiece for seasonal gatherings. Flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese combine in a show-stopping appetizer that delights guests and sparks celebration.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (320 grams each / 11.3 ounces each)
• 12 slices wafer thin ham
• 150 grams (5.3 ounces) cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 60 grams (2.1 ounces) gruyere cheese, grated
• 1 egg, beaten

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• Grated parmesan for serving

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon plain flour
• 240 milliliters (8.12 fluid ounces) milk

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Instructions

1. Unroll the chilled pastry sheet onto a clean surface, ensuring it remains cool and pliable.
2. Generously spread a thin layer of tangy mustard across the pastry, covering the entire surface evenly.
3. Layer delicate slices of ham across the mustard, creating a uniform coverage that reaches the pastry edges.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the ham, ensuring complete and consistent distribution.
5. Carefully place the second pastry sheet on top, gently pressing to seal the layers together.
6. Using a sharp knife, meticulously cut the layered pastry into a distinctive tree silhouette, maintaining clean, precise edges.
7. Create 1-inch wide branches along the tree’s outline, carefully cutting from the bottom upward with deliberate, steady movements.
8. Craft decorative elements from the remaining pastry scraps, such as small stars or ornament shapes.
9. Starting from the bottom, gently twist each branch 1-2 times, reducing the twist intensity as you approach the tree’s pinnacle.
10. Delicately brush the entire pastry surface with egg wash, ensuring a glossy, golden finish.
11. Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the prepared tree on a lined baking sheet.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, watching for a rich golden-brown color and crisp, flaky texture.
13. While baking, prepare the accompanying cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan.
14. Whisk flour into the melted butter, creating a smooth roux.
15. Gradually incorporate milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a silky consistency.
16. Fold in cheese and selected seasonings, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
17. Once baked, adorn the pastry tree with the previously crafted decorative elements.
18. Finish by dusting with finely grated parmesan for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
19. Serve immediately alongside the warm, creamy cheese sauce.

Notes

• Keep pastry chilled until just before use to ensure maximum flakiness and prevent butter from melting.
• Use cold ham and cheese to maintain pastry’s crisp texture and prevent soggy layers.
• Experiment with different mustards like Dijon or whole grain for unique flavor variations.
• Ensure branches are evenly twisted to create a visually appealing and consistent Christmas tree design.
• Brush egg wash carefully to achieve a golden, glossy finish without making pastry too wet.
• For gluten-free option, substitute puff pastry with gluten-free alternative or almond flour-based pastry.
• Make sauce ahead of time and gently reheat to save preparation time during serving.
• Consider vegetarian version by replacing ham with roasted vegetables or spinach.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg