why make this recipe

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees make a fun and festive appetizer for any holiday gathering. They are easy to prepare and bring a delightful crunch and cheesy goodness to your table. Plus, their tree shape adds a festive touch that will impress your guests and brighten up your holiday spread.

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 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 ham slices. Add the second sheet of pastry on top and press down lightly.
Cut strips: Slice 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. Brush over the trees.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Cool slightly & serve: Best warm, but still tasty at room temp.

how to serve Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Serve the Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees warm as an appetizer. You can arrange them on a festive platter with dipping sauces like honey mustard or fig jam on the side. They also look lovely with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or sesame seeds for extra flair.

how to store Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

To store leftovers, let the puff pastries cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving again.

tips to make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Make sure the puff pastry is thawed completely before using.
Use a sharp knife for cutting the strips to get clean edges.
Experiment with different cheeses or spreads to find your favorite flavor combination.
Ensure the cheese and ham are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.

variation (if any)

You can easily adapt this recipe for a vegetarian version by substituting the ham with a colorful spinach-artichoke spread or roasted vegetables. Additionally, you can use different types of cheese or include a sweet spread like honey mustard or fig jam for a unique flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the trees a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

What if I don’t have wooden skewers?
If you don’t have skewers, you can create the tree shape by twisting the strips into shape without them, but the skewer helps keep them upright.

Can I freeze these before baking?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled but unbaked trees. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, you can cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.