Go Back
Baked Christmas puff pastry trees with pesto and cheese on a festive board
Print

Christmas Puff Pastry Trees

These Christmas puff pastry trees are flaky, cheesy, and full of festive flavor. Made with pesto and ready-rolled puff pastry, they’re an easy holiday appetizer everyone loves.
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Christmas puff pastry trees, holiday appetizer, puff pastry appetizer
Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 280kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 sheets ready-rolled puff pastry
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg whisked (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon hot honey sauce
  • 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1 — Layer the Pastry

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and spread pesto evenly.
    Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan over the pesto.

Step 2 — Cut the Strips

  • Place the second puff pastry sheet on top and gently press to seal.
    Cut 1-inch strips lengthwise, reserving a wider section for star toppers.

Step 3 — Shape the Trees

  • Fold each strip back and forth into a loose triangle.
    Slide a skewer through the center and place on the baking sheet.
    Cut small stars from reserved pastry and skewer on top.

Step 4 — Bake and Finish

  • Brush trees with egg wash.
    Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy.
    Drizzle with hot honey and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Notes

Chill assembled trees for 10 minutes before baking if pastry feels warm.
Swap pesto for garlic butter or sun-dried tomato spread if desired.