Oh, the holiday season brings out the creativity in all of us, doesn’t it? One of my absolute favorite things to whip up during this time is these delightful Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees. Every time I put these on the table, it’s like magic—people gather around, eyes wide with excitement, and I can’t help but feel like a kitchen wizard. These charming little trees not only brighten up your festive spread but also taste utterly delicious.
It all started when I was looking for a fun and easy appetizer for a holiday party. I stumbled upon the idea of using puff pastry and with my love for pesto, the combination seemed natural. These trees have become a staple in my holiday gatherings—every bite is flaky, savory, and just a little bit fancy. Trust me, you’ll want to make these not just for their taste but for the smiles they bring to everyone who encounters them!
What’s in Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees?
- Puff pastry: You can find this in the freezer section—just ensure it’s thawed properly before using. I love using Pepperidge Farm because it puffs beautifully and tastes buttery.
- Green basil pesto: This adds that fresh, herby flavor. I prefer homemade, but any quality store-bought kind works wonders!
- Sun-dried tomato pesto: Gives a rich, tangy twist. I often use the Monteverde brand, but feel free to experiment with different varieties!
- Egg: Perfect for an egg wash. It gives our trees that beautiful golden color as they bake.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential for that extra punch of flavor.
- Wooden skewers: These are optional, but they are fantastic for presentation—who wouldn’t want a tree that stands tall?
- Fresh basil leaves: A gorgeous garnish that not only looks incredible but also elevates the herbaceous flavors even more.
Are Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees Good for You?
Let’s not kid ourselves; while these pretty little trees are a feast for the eyes, they are indeed a treat. The puff pastry does have a good amount of butter, so they’re not exactly health food. However, pesto is packed with flavor, and especially if you choose a brand that uses good ingredients, it has some benefits from the basil and nuts—hello, antioxidants! Pairing these trees with a vibrant salad or serving them with some fresh veggies can add a dose of nutrition to your festive spread. Just remember, moderation is key—because once you start munching, it’s hard to stop!
Ingredients List
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
- 1/4 cup green basil pesto
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (optional, for presentation)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees?
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup—trust me, your future self will thank you!
- Lightly flour your surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet until it’s smooth and a bit thinner.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pastry into triangles, approximately 3-4 inches wide at the base and 6 inches tall. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; rustic is in!
- Spread a thin layer of green basil pesto on one side of half of the triangles. On the other half, spread the sun-dried tomato pesto. Just be careful to leave a little border around the edges.
- Now for the fun part! Stack the triangles by layering them alternately between the green and sun-dried tomato pestos.
- Starting from the base of the stacked triangles, twist them gently to create a spiral effect. This is what will form the shape of your Christmas tree—how festive!
- Place your formed trees on the prepared baking sheet. If you’re using wooden skewers, gently insert one at the base of each tree for that extra touch.
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the trees with the egg wash. Then it’s time to sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. If you’d like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color before serving.
Garnishing Tips for Your Pesto Puff Pastry Trees
- Feeling fancy? Add crumbled feta or goat cheese between the layers for an indulgent twist.
- If you like a little heat, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the pestos!
- Serve warm with a side of balsamic glaze for drizzling—goodness, it’s delicious!
I can’t tell you enough how much joy these Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Trees bring to any gathering. They look stunning, taste divine, and are surprisingly easy to make. So gather your ingredients, throw on some festive music, and create a spectacular treat that’s sure to have everyone talking. And if you do make these, I’d absolutely love to hear how they turned out for you! Happy baking!
