Ham and Cheese Holiday Puff Pastry Trees

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Ham and Cheese Holiday Puff Pastry Trees

Table of Contents

Flaky, golden puff pastry layered with savory ham and melty cheese, cut into Christmas tree shapes and baked until crisp and bubbly. These holiday puff pastry trees are simple to make, visually stunning, and always a crowd favorite.

🧀 Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

  • 4–6 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)

  • ½–¾ cup shredded cheese
    (Gruyère, Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar work well)

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

  • Wooden skewers or thick toothpicks

🔪 Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Assemble the Pastry

  1. Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a floured surface.

  2. Layer ham slices evenly over the pastry.

  3. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.

  4. Place a second puff pastry sheet on top (optional for extra layers) or fold the pastry over the filling.

  5. Press gently to seal.

3. Cut Tree Shapes

  1. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into triangle (tree) shapes — wide at the bottom, narrow at the top.

  2. Make small diagonal cuts on each side to resemble branches (do not cut all the way through).

  3. Carefully insert a skewer through the center of each tree to act as the “trunk.”

See also  Mediterranean Greek Chicken & Olive Bread Board

4. Brush & Decorate

  • Brush each tree generously with beaten egg.

  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a festive look.

5. Bake

  • Place trees on the prepared baking sheet.

  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed, golden brown, and crispy.

6. Garnish & Serve

  • Let cool slightly.

  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives to resemble pine needles.

  • Serve warm while the cheese is melty.

⭐ Tips for Success

  • Keep puff pastry cold for best layers.

  • Use thin ham slices so the pastry puffs evenly.

  • Chill shaped trees for 10 minutes before baking for sharper edges.

  • Swap ham for turkey or prosciutto if desired.

🎁 Serving Ideas

  • Serve with honey mustard or Dijon dip

  • Pair with tomato soup or holiday salad

  • Add to a Christmas appetizer board

  • Perfect for kids’ holiday parties

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