Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Name: Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 trees
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 4 oz ham, thinly sliced; 4 oz cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), sliced; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Flour (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Holiday & Festive Meals

Delight your holiday gatherings with these festive Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. They're as delicious as they are beautiful!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-09T18:10:32.668Z

These charming Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are perfect for holiday parties or as a fun snack for family gatherings. The flaky pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese create a delightful treat that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Flaky, buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
Savory ham and cheese combination that pleases any palate
Fun and festive shape, perfect for the holiday spirit

      

Festive Flavor Combinations

The combination of ham and cheese is a classic that never goes out of style. For these Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, you can choose from a variety of cheeses to suit your taste. Cheddar offers a sharp, tangy flavor, while mozzarella provides a creamy, mild alternative. Don’t hesitate to mix and match! Consider adding some herbs or spices for an extra kick, such as freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

These festive trees aren't just about flavor; they're also about presentation. The bright colors of the ham and cheese against the golden-brown pastry create a visually stunning dish. Once baked, the puff pastry rises beautifully, giving these trees an impressive height that will surely wow your guests. Whether you're serving them as appetizers or part of a larger spread, they will catch everyone's eye and appetite!

Perfect for Any Gathering

These Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are the ideal addition to any holiday gathering, from casual get-togethers to formal dinners. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to enjoy while mingling, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, including wine, cider, or hot cocoa. You can also serve them alongside a festive charcuterie board for a delightful spread that offers something for everyone.

Moreover, they can be made ahead of time, giving you more flexibility as you prepare for your holiday festivities. Simply assemble the pastry trees, and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This way, you can focus on other dishes or spend more time with your loved ones before the big meal.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Trees

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
4 oz ham, thinly sliced
4 oz cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), sliced
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Flour (for dusting)

Ensure the puff pastry is chilled before working with it for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to about 1/8 inch thickness.

Cut the Trees

Cut the pastry into triangle shapes resembling Christmas trees. You can use a knife or a pizza cutter for clean edges.

Add Filling

Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on the bottom of each triangle. Fold the top of the triangle over the filling to form a tree shape.

Apply Egg Wash

Brush the top of each pastry tree with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.

Bake

Place the pastry trees on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your festive treat!

These delightful trees can be served warm or at room temperature.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will help revive their flaky texture and ensure they taste just as delicious as when they were first made.

If you prefer to make them ahead and freeze for later, assemble the trees but do not bake them. Instead, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch of elegance, consider garnishing your Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the dish, adding a hint of sweetness that complements the savory filling beautifully. These small details can transform a simple appetizer into a standout dish that impresses your guests.

Pair these festive trees with a light salad or some fresh fruit to create a balanced plate. Adding a variety of textures and flavors will enhance your holiday spread and make it even more enjoyable for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of meats and cheeses or even add some vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the trees in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ What should I serve with these?

These puff pastry trees pair well with a light salad or festive dips like mustard or cranberry sauce.