Festive Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

When the holidays arrive, the table is often filled with sweets, but it is the savory appetizers that disappear first. These Festive Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a delightful, whimsical addition to any holiday spread. Shaped like little fir trees and filled with the classic comfort of ham and melting cheese, they are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe incredibly easy, giving you a bakery-quality result with minimal effort. The golden, flaky pastry creates a satisfying crunch, while the skewer makes them a perfect finger food for mingling guests. They are a hit with both kids and adults, adding a touch of edible magic to your Christmas party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fun & Festive Presentation

These trees look impressive on a platter, standing tall with their accordion folds. They serve as edible decor that instantly festive-up your buffet table.

Simple 3-Ingredient Filling

You don’t need a long grocery list. Just pastry, ham, and cheese. If you are looking for other fun, cheesy appetizers to serve alongside these, the Smashburger Quesadillas are another crowd-pleaser that hits those savory notes.

Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions

Essential Ingredients

Frozen Puff Pastry (thawed but cold) is the base. Deli Ham (thinly sliced) works best so it folds easily. Slices of Cheddar or Swiss cheese melt perfectly inside the layers. A beaten egg provides the golden gloss. Green olives or cheese stars act as the “tree toppers.”

Smart Substitutions

You can use turkey or prosciutto instead of ham. For a vegetarian option, use a thin layer of pesto and parmesan. If you don’t have skewers, you can bake them flat as festive tartlets.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Phase

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Cooking Phase

Unroll the puff pastry. Layer the ham and cheese slices over the dough. Cut the pastry into 1-inch strips. Fold each strip back and forth in a zigzag pattern, starting narrow at the top and getting wider at the bottom to mimic a tree shape. Thread a skewer through the center of the folded pastry. Place on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash. Bake for 15-18 minutes until puffed and golden. Top with an olive or cheese star.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Technique Secrets

Keep the pastry cold! If it gets warm, the butter melts too fast and you lose the layers. If it gets sticky, pop the strips in the fridge for 10 minutes before threading.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t overstuff the layers. If the filling is too thick, the “branches” won’t fold properly and might cook unevenly.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Presentation & Plating

Arrange standing up in a foam block covered with foil, or lay flat on a platter garnished with rosemary sprigs to look like pine needles.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with honey mustard or cranberry sauce for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1? Can I make these ahead?
You can assemble them on the skewers and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking.

Q2? Can I use crescent roll dough?
Yes, but they will be softer and more bread-like, rather than flaky.

Q3? Is it messy to eat?
Not really! The skewer keeps everything contained, making it a great cocktail party snack.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180 kcal
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	25mg
Sodium	350mg
Carbohydrates	14g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Protein	6g

Conclusion

Festive Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a joy to make and eat. They bring a smile to everyone’s face and delicious, flaky flavor to your holiday table.