Name: Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed); 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced); 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella); 24 wooden skewers; 4 tbsp melted butter; 2 tsp minced garlic; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional); Honey mustard or fig jam (optional)

Why Make This Recipe

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a fun and tasty treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or a cozy family night. The flaky pastry combined with savory ham and cheese makes for a delightful bite. Plus, they look like festive trees, adding a cheerful touch to any festive table. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these pastries will surely be a hit!

How to Make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Ingredients :

2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella work well)
24 wooden skewers
4 tbsp melted butter
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional holiday flair)
Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory combo
Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top for a decorative “tree topper”
Swap ham for turkey or spinach-artichoke spread for a vegetarian version

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Assemble the layers: Lay out one puff pastry sheet. Top with cheese slices, then add ham slices. Place the second sheet of pastry on top and press down lightly.
Cut strips: Slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Fold each strip back and forth onto a skewer to resemble a tree shape.
Brush with glaze: Mix melted butter, garlic, and parsley together. Brush this mixture over the pastry trees.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until they puff up and turn golden brown.
Cool slightly & serve: These pastries are best warm, but they are still tasty at room temperature.

How to Serve Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

These puff pastry trees are great as appetizers or snacks. Serve them warm on a festive platter. You can also offer dips like honey mustard or a sweet fig jam on the side for added flavor. They are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying during family gatherings!

How to Store Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

To store leftovers, let the pastries cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain the crispiness.

Tips to Make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely before using it for easy handling.
Keep the fillings simple or mix them according to your taste preferences.
Experiment with different cheese for unique flavors, or even add herbs and spices to the butter glaze for extra taste!

Variation

If you want a different flavor, try swapping the ham with turkey or using a spinach-artichoke spread for a vegetarian option. You can also add your favorite seasonings to the butter glaze for a fun twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works well. Just make sure to thaw it completely before using.

2. How long do these pastries take to prepare?
They take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake, making them a quick and easy treat!

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. For the best results, bake them just before serving.