Description
These Puff Pastry Pesto Christmas Trees are a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Flaky puff pastry layered with vibrant basil pesto and Parmesan cheese is twisted into charming tree shapes, brushed with egg wash, and baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and visually delightful, they make an impressive finger food that pairs wonderfully with marinara or garlic dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 3–4 tablespoons basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Optional: sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface, rolling it out slightly to even the edges for a uniform thickness.
- Spread Pesto and Sprinkle Cheese: Evenly spread 3 to 4 tablespoons of basil pesto over the entire sheet, then sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese on top for rich flavor.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the puff pastry sheet in half lengthwise like a book and gently press to seal the edges, locking in the flavorful filling.
- Slice Into Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the folded pastry into ½ inch wide strips for twisting.
- Twist and Shape Trees: Twist each strip several times and then carefully shape each into a Christmas tree by winding it from the base up to a point, creating a layered, conical form.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the twisted trees on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between them for puffing during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Garnish: Brush each tree with beaten egg to achieve a glossy, golden finish, and sprinkle with optional sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes if desired for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until the puff pastry is golden brown, puffed, and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the trees to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to ensure maximum crispiness and ease of handling.
Notes
- Serve with marinara or garlic dipping sauce for a fun and complementary appetizer.
- You can substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a festive red and green color variation.
- Best enjoyed the same day for maximum puff pastry crispiness and freshness.
