Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Every year, as the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about my childhood. I recall the excitement of preparing festive treats with my family, each morsel holding a cherished memory. One unforgettable experience was creating simple but delightful dishes that brought joy and warmth to our gatherings. It was in those moments that food became more than sustenance; it became a celebration of love and togetherness. One recipe that stands out from those delightful times is the Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. This dish encapsulates everything I love about the holidays: creativity, comfort, and, of course, delicious flavors. It reminds me of humming carols in the kitchen, the smell of buttery pastry wafting through the air, and the laughter that echoed as we enjoyed our festive feast. Making these trees now is not only a tradition for my family but also a way to share joy and bring smiles to everyone around the table.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and festive dish that delights both kids and adults, Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a perfect solution. These festive treats are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. Just imagine the joy on your family’s faces as they bite into golden, flaky pastries filled with savory ham and melted cheese. Furthermore, they add a charming touch to any holiday table, enhancing the festive spirit with their delightful tree shape.

Moreover, you can customize the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. Therefore, whether you stick with classic ham and cheese or explore other variations, you can easily adapt these trees to make them uniquely yours. Since they bake quickly, you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Plus, they can serve as a stunning appetizer or side dish for holiday parties. Enjoying these treats can become a cherished tradition in your home, bringing everyone together for a shared culinary experience each year. That’s why Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees hold a special place in my heart and why I know they’ll be a hit at your holiday gatherings too.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Ingredients

• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 12 slices deli ham
• 12 slices cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 24 wooden skewers
• Honey mustard or fig jam (optional)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional)

Directions

First, you need to prepare the puff pastry sheets. Gently unfold the sheets on a clean surface. Next, layer the puff pastry with slices of ham and cheese. You may also add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese if you want an extra layer of flavor. After that, cut the layered pastry into strips. For each strip, starting at the bottom, make your first fold about 2.5 inches, with succeeding folds being shorter. This folding technique gives your trees a lovely shape.

Then, push a wooden skewer through the center of the folded pastry tree, leaving a little portion exposed at the top for decoration. Arrange all the trees carefully on a baking sheet to ensure they have enough space. Now it’s time to bake them! Place them in the oven and bake until they turn golden and flaky, and the cheese melts nicely inside.

While the trees bake, you can prepare a delicious garlic butter glaze. Melt the butter in a small saucepan and mix in the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Once the trees are out of the oven, brush this garlic butter glaze generously on top. For an extra festive touch, consider decorating the trees with cheese cutouts or pastry stars on top. Optionally, you might sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds before baking for added flavor. You can also get creative with variations, such as swapping ham for turkey or using a spinach artichoke spread to make them more festive and fun!

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

When serving your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, presentation matters. Arrange the trees on a beautiful platter, creating a playful holiday display. You can even place them in a festive basket lined with colorful napkins to add to the aesthetic. Serve these delightful trees warm; they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and every bite is crispy.

Additionally, consider pairing them with a side of honey mustard or fig jam for dipping. This option enhances the flavor and adds a sweet note that can brighten the palate. You can serve them as an appetizer during holiday gatherings or as part of a festive brunch. Families may also enjoy these as an easy snack while watching holiday movies together. The fun, festive shape and delicious flavors make them a hit for any occasion during the holiday season.

How to Store Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

To store your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, allow them to cool completely before putting them away. Then, place them in an airtight container to ensure they stay fresh. They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, it’s best to eat them within this timeframe to enjoy their best flavor and texture.

If you want to keep some for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap each pastry tree tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can last in the freezer for about a month. When you want to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven until they are warm and crispy. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees even past the holiday season!

Tips to Make Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

1. Keep Puff Pastry Cold: To get the best flaky texture, make sure the puff pastry stays cold before baking. You can even chill it in the refrigerator for a short time before rolling it out.

2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your ham and cheese are at room temperature before adding them to the pastry. This will help the cheese melt evenly while baking and prevent them from cooling the pastry.

3. Experiment with Cheeses: You can use various cheeses besides the classic options. Creamy cheeses like brie or gouda will add a rich flavor, while a sharp cheese like cheddar brings a delightful kick to your trees.

4. Use Fresh Herbs: Consider mixing in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your garlic butter glaze. This simple addition makes a big difference in flavor and, of course, gives your cooking a gourmet touch.

5. Watch Baking Time: Always keep an eye on the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

6. Let Them Cool Before Serving: Allow the trees to cool slightly after baking. This gives the cheese a moment to firm up, making them easier to handle and more enjoyable to eat.

7. Don’t Overfill: It can be tempting to fill your trees with lots of ham and cheese. However, filling just enough ensures the pastry can rise properly and achieve that delightful flaky texture.

8. Fun Shapes for Kids: If you’re making these trees for kids, allow them to help cut the pastry into shapes or decorate the trees. This involvement makes the cooking process fun and helps create lifelong memories.

Variation

1. Turkey and Swiss Twist: Swap out the deli ham for thinly sliced turkey and use Swiss cheese instead. This variation offers a leaner option while still delivering on flavor, making them perfect for post-Thanksgiving gatherings!

2. Spinach Artichoke Delight: For a vegetarian option, replace the ham and cheese with a spinach artichoke mixture. This creamy and savory filling creates a rich flavor explosion that will appeal to everyone.

3. Sweet and Savory: Try adding a fig jam layer beneath the cheese for a sweet and savory twist. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory ham and cheese, ideal for a festive treat.

4. Buffalo Chicken Style: If you love a bit of spice, use shredded buffalo chicken instead of ham and add pepper jack cheese. This variation gives your Christmas trees a fun kick!

5. Herbed Cream Cheese: Instead of using regular cheese, spread a layer of herbed cream cheese combined with shredded carrots and bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful treat.

6. Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread: Instead of individual trees, cut the pastry into larger squares and layer cheese and ham in a baking dish. Bake it together for a cheesy pull-apart bread that shares the same flavors of the original recipe but encourages guests to gather around the dish.

FAQs Of Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Can I make Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the trees a day in advance. Simply assemble them, then cover each assembled tree with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before baking.

What can I use instead of deli ham?
If you prefer, you can swap the deli ham for turkey, cooked chicken, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. These substitutes work well and maintain the festive flavors.

How do I reheat leftovers?
For the best results, avoid microwaving the trees as it can make them soggy. Instead, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.

Can I freeze these pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

What sauces pair well with these trees?
Consider serving your trees with honey mustard or a tangy fig jam on the side. A classic ranch dressing or even a creamy garlic dip can also complement the flavors beautifully.

What can I do if my puff pastry doesn’t rise?
If your puff pastry does not rise properly, it’s possible that the dough is either too warm or was not cold enough before baking. Always keep the pastry chilled and avoid overworking it, as this can hinder its ability to puff up.

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

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• Author: imrane
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A festive and fun dish featuring flaky puff pastry filled with ham and cheese, shaped like Christmas trees.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 12 slices deli ham
• 12 slices cheese
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 24 wooden skewers
• Honey mustard or fig jam (optional)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the puff pastry sheets by gently unfolding them on a clean surface.
2. Layer the puff pastry with slices of ham and cheese. Optionally, add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam underneath the cheese.
3. Cut the layered pastry into strips. Make folds starting from the bottom, about 2.5 inches in length, with shorter folds for the top.
4. Push a wooden skewer through the center of each folded pastry tree and arrange them on a baking sheet.
5. Bake until they turn golden and flaky and the cheese melts nicely inside.
6. Prepare a garlic butter glaze by melting butter in a small saucepan and mixing in minced garlic and chopped parsley.
7. Once the trees are out of the oven, brush the garlic butter glaze generously on top.
8. Optionally, decorate with cheese cutouts or pastry stars and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds before baking.

Notes

These can be customized with different fillings like turkey or vegetarian options. Serve warm for the best experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tree
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Christmas, puff pastry, appetizers, festive food, holiday recipes