Description

These Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with flaky puff pastry layered with savory ham and melted cheese, these tree-shaped treats are brushed with an egg wash for a golden finish and optionally flavored with Dijon mustard and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, they make an ideal snack or appetizer for Christmas parties.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry & Fillings

1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
6 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
6 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss)

Other Ingredients

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Flour (for dusting)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Sea salt (to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Prepare Puff Pastry: Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth and flatten it if needed, ensuring an even thickness.
Cut Pastry Triangles: Cut the puff pastry into triangle shapes approximately 6 to 8 inches tall. Start by cutting a rectangle and then slicing it into triangles to resemble Christmas trees.
Layer Ingredients: On each pastry triangle, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard if using, then layer a slice of ham followed by a slice of cheese. Add additional layers if desired, keeping the fillings within the triangle boundaries.
Shape Trees: Starting from the bottom point of each triangle, fold over the sides of the pastry to form a tree shape, pressing gently to seal while keeping the top point open to give it a tree-like appearance. Make sure the layers are snugly packed.
Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped trees onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg to promote a golden, glossy finish during baking.
Season: Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the pastry tops to enhance flavor.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the pastries are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra festive touch.
Serve: Serve warm as a delightful holiday appetizer or snack that guests will enjoy.

Notes

If using frozen puff pastry, ensure it is fully thawed before rolling to prevent tearing.
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
Feel free to substitute ham and cheese with other deli meats or vegetarian options.
Brush edges with egg wash to ensure a good seal and prevent filling leakage.
For a crispier texture, bake on a preheated baking stone or metal sheet if available.
The puff pastry can be made ahead and assembled just before baking for quick preparation.
Garnishing with fresh herbs after baking adds both aroma and visual appeal but is optional.