Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Let me tell you about this Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe—it’s a total crowd-pleaser and a festive conversation starter. I first made it for a holiday get-together when I wanted something fun but fuss-free, and it instantly became a tradition. The flaky, buttery puff pastry combined with creamy herbed cheese and salty ham creates layers of irresistible flavor and texture that everyone will love.

This recipe works perfectly as an appetizer for Christmas parties, or anytime you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to assemble and looks stunning on the table. If you’re a fan of deliciously savory bites with a festive twist, you simply have to give my Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, I’ve picked ingredients that complement each other beautifully without overshadowing the star—our puff pastry Christmas tree shape! When shopping, look for quality cheeses and ham to really elevate the flavors.

• Puff pastry: This is the base for your tree—the flakier, the better. I usually grab pre-rolled sheets to save time.
• Boursin cheese or herbed cream cheese: Adds a lovely creamy texture and subtle herb flavor that pairs amazingly with ham.
• Prosciutto, salami, or capocollo: Any of these cured meats lend a salty richness; prosciutto is my personal favorite for its delicate texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled in for a bit of sharpness and that golden melt you want on top.
• Mixed seeds: A fun crunchy garnish that also makes your tree look extra festive.
• Egg wash (egg + 1 tablespoon milk): This helps your pastry get that gorgeous golden brown finish—don’t skip it!

Variations

I love how flexible this Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe is. You can tweak it easily depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences, making it your own festive creation.

• Vegetarian variation: Swap the ham for roasted veggies like bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes. I tried this once and it was surprisingly delicious!
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy salami for some heat—great for those who like it a little fiery.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with gruyère or mozzarella if you want a different flavor or a super gooey texture.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free puff pastry if you’re catering to dietary needs; it works just as well with this recipe.

How to Make Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pastry Sheets

Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions—usually about 30 minutes at room temperature. Once pliable but still cold, roll each sheet out gently on a floured surface to smooth the creases. It’s important not to warm the dough too much or your pastry won’t puff up properly, so keep your hands cool and work quickly but carefully.

Step 2: Layer the Flavors

Spread the Boursin or herbed cream cheese evenly over the first sheet without going all the way to the edges—leave about a 1 cm border. Then, lay your slices of prosciutto or whichever cured meat you chose on top, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar. Place the second puff pastry sheet on top to sandwich your fillings, gently pressing down the edges to seal the ‘tree.’

Step 3: Shape Your Tree

Trim the edges to even everything out, then use a sharp knife to cut your pastry into a large triangle shape—think Christmas tree silhouette. From the wide base, make several horizontal cuts on each side, leaving about 1 inch uncut in the center to keep it stable. Twist each strip gently to reveal the layers of ham and cheese—it’s the fun part and what makes this recipe so eye-catching!

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Brush the entire tree with your egg wash to give it that irresistible golden shine when baked. Then sprinkle a mix of seeds over the top for extra crunch and a festive vibe. Pop it into a preheated oven at 200°C (about 400°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until beautifully puffed and golden brown.

How to Serve Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I like to garnish my Christmas tree with fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme—it adds a wonderful aroma and makes the presentation pop. A few cherry tomatoes scattered around add a burst of color and freshness. Plus, a light drizzle of honey mustard or a tangy dip on the side when serving has always been a hit in my house.

Side Dishes

This Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple green salads or a bowl of warm soup. At Christmas, I often serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or a tangy cranberry chutney to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a real festive setting, arrange your puff pastry trees on wooden boards decorated with pine needles or fairy lights for a wintry feel. I’ve also tried placing mini versions on cocktail sticks to serve as individual party bites—easy to grab and always admired!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and you probably will be!), wrap the pastry tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 2 days, and the flavors often meld even better overnight.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the assembled but unbaked trees before with great success. Just wrap them carefully and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with the egg wash and baking. It’s a brilliant timesaver during busy holiday prep!

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm without losing crispness, I pop pieces in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving. This keeps the pastry flaky and the cheese melty, just like fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe is one of those gems you’ll keep coming back to because it’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Sharing this recipe with friends has sparked so many joyful cooking moments and smiles, and I hope it brings the same magic to your holidays. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll earn a special spot on your festive menu—and your kitchen stories!

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