Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees: A Festive Puff Pastry Appetiser Recipe

Introduction

These Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees are a fun and festive puff pastry appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Crispy, cheesy, and beautifully shaped, they bring a delightful touch to any party spread.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup (100 g) grated mozzarella or tasty cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for decoration)
• Small skewers or pretzel sticks (for “tree trunks”)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced) and line two large baking trays with baking paper. Lay one sheet of puff pastry flat on a clean surface and spread a thin, even layer of basil pesto over it. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly on top.
2. Step 2: Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the first, pressing gently to stick the layers together.
3. Step 3: Slice the layered pastry into 2 cm wide strips. Starting from the top, fold each strip back and forth to form a zigzag “tree” shape that narrows toward the top. Insert a small skewer or pretzel stick into the base to create the “tree trunk.”
4. Step 4: Transfer the shaped trees to the baking trays. Brush each one lightly with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
5. Step 5: Bake for 12–15 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Watch carefully as the cheese bubbles and edges crisp.
6. Step 6: Allow the trees to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with dips like tomato relish, aioli, or pesto mayo.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or garlic powder to the cheese layer before baking.
• Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique taste.
• If you don’t have skewers or pretzel sticks, small breadsticks work well as “tree trunks.”
• Make homemade basil pesto to control the freshness and intensity of flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to keep them crisp. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be served at room temperature as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pastry instead of frozen puff pastry?

Yes, fresh puff pastry can be used if available. The baking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the trees as they bake.

Can I prepare these in advance?

You can assemble the trees ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even puffing.

Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees: A Festive Puff Pastry Appetiser Recipe

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Celebrate the festive season with these delightful Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees, a fun and easy puff pastry appetizer. Crisp, golden puff pastry layers are filled with fragrant basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese, shaped into charming Christmas tree shapes with a crunchy pretzel stick trunk. Perfect for holiday parties or as a whimsical snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and festive presentation.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 Cheesy Pesto Christmas Trees 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Western, European

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry and Filling

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup (100 g) grated mozzarella or tasty cheese

For Finishing

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp sesame or poppy seeds (optional, for decoration)
• Small skewers or pretzel sticks (for “tree trunks”)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced) and line two baking trays with baking paper. Lay one sheet of puff pastry flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin, even layer of basil pesto over the entire surface, ensuring it reaches the edges. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto layer.
2. Add the Second Pastry Sheet: Place the second sheet of puff pastry directly on top of the first, pressing down gently so the layers adhere together.
3. Shape the Christmas Trees: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the layered pastry into long strips about 2 cm wide, with each strip forming one tree. Starting from the top, fold the strip back and forth in a zigzag pattern to resemble a narrowing Christmas tree. Insert a small skewer or pretzel stick at the base to hold the shape together for the tree trunk.
4. Brush with Egg Wash: Transfer the shaped trees onto the prepared baking trays. Lightly brush each with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked. If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top for extra texture and decoration.
5. Bake: Bake the trees in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is bubbly. Watch carefully as the edges crisp up beautifully.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesy pesto trees to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, paired with your favorite dips like tomato relish, aioli, or pesto mayo.

Notes

• For best results, ensure the puff pastry sheets are well thawed but still cold for easier handling.
• You can use homemade basil pesto or a store-bought variety depending on your preference.
• Experiment with different cheeses such as tasty cheddar or a mix for varied flavors.
• Use sesame or poppy seeds not only for decoration but also for a subtle nutty flavor.
• These appetizers are best served fresh but can be reheated gently in the oven to regain crispness.
• Small skewers or pretzel sticks help maintain the tree shape and add an edible ‘trunk’ for fun presentation.

Keywords: cheesy pesto Christmas trees, festive appetizers, puff pastry recipe, holiday snacks, easy Christmas appetizers, pesto and cheese pastry