Name: Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed); 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced); 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella); 24 wooden skewers; 4 tbsp melted butter; 2 tsp minced garlic; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional); Honey mustard or fig jam (for under the cheese); Star-shaped cheese cutouts (for decoration)

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Why Make This Recipe

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are an impressive yet easy-to-make holiday treat. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a fun appetizer for your family. These tasty pastries look festive and are sure to delight everyone who tries them. The combination of crispy puff pastry, savory ham, and gooey cheese makes them hard to resist!

How to Make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Ingredients:

2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella work well)
24 wooden skewers
4 tbsp melted butter
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional holiday flair)
Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory combo
Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top for a decorative “tree topper”
Swap ham for turkey or spinach-artichoke spread for a vegetarian version

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Assemble the layers: Lay out one puff pastry sheet. Top with cheese slices, then ham slices. Add the second sheet of pastry on top and press down lightly.
Cut strips: Slice into 1-inch wide strips. Fold each strip back and forth onto a skewer to resemble a tree shape.
Brush with glaze: Mix melted butter, garlic, and parsley. Brush over the trees.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Cool slightly & serve: Best warm, but still tasty at room temperature.

How to Serve Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Serve these festive treats warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they still make a tasty snack later. You can present them on a decorative platter or arrange them as a centerpiece at your holiday table.

How to Store Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Make sure to thaw the puff pastry properly for easy handling.
Don’t skip the melted butter and garlic mixture; it adds extra flavor!
Feel free to mix and match the cheese and meat to suit your taste.
Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry for clean lines.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, swap out the ham for a spinach-artichoke spread or roasted vegetables. You can also use different types of cheese to experiment with flavors.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works great and saves you time in preparation.

Can I freeze these before baking?
Yes, you can assemble them and freeze them unbaked. Just bake for a few extra minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What can I serve these with?
These trees pair nicely with a dipping sauce like honey mustard or a festive cranberry sauce for added flavor.