Description
This Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree filled with ham and cheese is a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of flaky puff pastry are spread with herbed cream cheese, topped with savory prosciutto and shredded cheddar, then shaped into a beautiful tree and baked until golden. Topped with mixed seeds and brushed with egg wash, this elegant savory treat is sure to impress guests and add a fun, seasonal touch to any party spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry (500g total)
Fillings
- 100g Boursin cheese or herbed cream cheese
- 150g prosciutto or salami or capocollo
- 50g shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings
- Mixed seeds (e.g. sesame, poppy, sunflower) for sprinkling
- Egg wash (1 whole egg + 1 tablespoon milk, beaten)
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry Layers. Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to package instructions until pliable but still cold. On a lightly floured surface, lay out one sheet and spread the Boursin cheese evenly across it. Layer the prosciutto slices evenly over the cheese, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Assemble the Christmas Tree. Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the layered sheet. Using a sharp knife, trim the edges to align the sheets perfectly. Cut a triangle shape resembling a Christmas tree from the puff pastry stack, approximately 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide at the base.
- Cut and Twist the Branches. Starting from the edges towards the center trunk, make evenly spaced cuts about 1 inch wide on both sides, avoiding cutting through the center strip (the trunk). Carefully twist each strip away from the center to create the appearance of tree branches.
- Apply Egg Wash and Seeds. Place the shaped Christmas tree on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the entire surface with the egg wash to create a golden finish during baking. Sprinkle mixed seeds over the branches for added texture and festive appearance.
- Bake the Tree. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the pastry tree on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve. Remove from the oven and let the savory puff pastry Christmas tree cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is chilled to get maximum puff and flakiness during baking.
- You can substitute Boursin with any herbed cream cheese of your choice.
- Mix different cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or capocollo based on preference.
- Adding mixed seeds not only enhances flavor but adds a festive touch resembling Christmas tree decorations.
- Serve with a side of mustard or chutney for added flavor contrast.
- Leftover puff pastry can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently before serving.
Keywords: savoury puff pastry, christmas tree appetizer, holiday snack, ham and cheese pastry, festive party food