Description
This Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer is a festive and delicious pull-apart breadstick treat perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with layers of crisp puff pastry and savory pesto, this eye-catching appetizer is simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests with its delightful flavors and charming presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry
Spread
- 3-4 Tablespoons pesto or savory spread of your choice
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Optional Topping
- Sesame seeds, for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare first puff pastry layer: Unfold one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet and spread the pesto evenly all over the surface.
- Assemble layers: Unfold the second puff pastry sheet and place it on top of the first layer, gently pressing to seal the two sheets together.
- Shape the Christmas tree: Cut the layered puff pastry in the shape of a Christmas tree. Save the extra pastry pieces for later use.
- Create twists: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut slits about 0.5 inches (1.5 cm) apart on both sides of the tree, leaving the center intact. Twist each strip two to three times and press the ends into the baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining pastry scraps on a separate baking sheet.
- Apply egg wash and add toppings: Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush this egg wash over the pastry twists. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
- Serve: Allow the appetizer to cool slightly, then serve warm as a pull-apart treat that’s perfect for holiday festivities.
Notes
- This appetizer is very versatile—you can swap the pesto for other savory spreads like tapenade, cheese spreads, or even a flavored butter.
- Ensure the puff pastry is cold before beginning to work with it to maintain its flakiness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
- Perfect as a festive holiday starter or party snack that’s easy to share.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
