Christmas Trees Ham Cheese Puff

Shaped like festive evergreens and layered with creamy cheese and savory ham, these Christmas Trees Ham and Cheese Puff Pastries bring a touch of celebration to any holiday gathering and vanish fast from the platter. I love how this recipe blends joyful presentation with minimal effort, making even casual entertaining feel special. The scent of fresh pastry and melting cheese baking brings my family straight to the kitchen.

These trees first debuted at our Christmas brunch when my mom asked for something whimsical yet not fussy. Now my nieces expect the “cheesy trees” on the table every year.

Ingredients

• All-butter puff pastry sheets: Offer rich layers and ensure crisp flakiness look for a quality brand in the freezer section
• Thinly sliced ham: Gives subtle saltiness and a hearty bite choose classic or try smoked for depth
• Shredded cheese: Melts beautifully and binds the filling my favorite blend is gruyere with a bit of mozzarella
• Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang and complexity but can be left out for a milder version choose a smooth style
• Fresh thyme or rosemary: Adds herbal aroma and a pop of green use fresh needles and chop well
• Egg for washing: Creates an even golden crust farm-fresh eggs have richer color
• Melted butter: Adds flavor and a gleaming finish brush on just after baking
• Flake sea salt: Intensifies savory flavor and offers a subtle crunch find a delicate finishing salt
• Micro herbs or smoked paprika: Offer a modern understated garnish if plating for guests
• Finely grated parmesan or rosemary sprigs: Provide extra festive touches

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry Base:

Lay one sheet of thawed puff pastry flat on a parchment-lined baking tray. Smooth out any creases or folds gently to keep the layers even and undisturbed for maximum puff.

Add the Ham and Cheese Layers:

Brush a whisper-thin layer of Dijon mustard over the surface for subtle savor. Layer ham slices in neat lines over the entire sheet reaching all edges. Sprinkle cheese evenly making sure to reach the margins so there are no bites without cheese.

Top with the Second Sheet:

Gently place the second pastry sheet on top of the first. Lightly press along the sides and surface to align and seal the layers without compressing the dough which preserves the pastry’s rise.

Cut the Christmas Tree Shapes:

With a very sharp knife cut a tall triangle shape for each tree on the assembled pastry. Carefully slice horizontal strips outward from the center trunk leaving the middle intact. Twist each strip with your fingers to form decorative spirals that mimic tree branches.

Brush and Season:

Beat the egg and brush it over each tree making sure to cover all exposed pastry for an even shine. Sprinkle a small amount of chopped herbs or flake salt sparingly so the trees look neat and refined when baked.

Bake to Crisp Perfection:

Slide the tray into the oven and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 18 to 22 minutes. Watch for a puffed and golden crust before removing from the oven. Immediately brush each warm tree with melted butter which melts in and gives a glossy lush finish.

Serve on a Modern Platter:

Use a wide spatula to lift each pastry tree onto a marble or matte ceramic platter. Arrange with negative space in mind for a modern look. Garnish minimally and let the texture and form be the stars.

Gruyere is my secret to ultra-luxurious melt and flavor in these trees. One year my sister surprised us by making a plate with rosemary from her garden and the aroma turned our tiny kitchen into a holiday bakery.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pastry trees in an airtight container once cooled to room temperature. They reheat best in the oven at a moderate temperature which preserves their crispiness instead of microwaving which can make them soggy. For longer storage freeze the unbaked assembled shapes and bake directly from frozen adding two to three extra minutes to the bake time.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ham for turkey breast or a vegetarian option like roasted mushrooms and spinach. Feel free to use whichever cheese melts well like fontina or swiss. If you are out of fresh herbs try a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a pinch of black pepper for aromatic lift.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a platter with sprigs of rosemary and tiny ornaments for a centerpiece. These pastries pair perfectly with a crisp sparkling wine or a mug of mulled cider. Serve alongside a bright green salad for a balanced brunch or supper spread.

Cultural and Holiday Notes

While shaped pastries are a beloved part of European winter feasts this playful version gives a nod to Scandinavian minimalism with its clean lines and simple flavors. Baking together during the holidays is a tradition in my home and these trees always start lively conversations as they come to the table.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try swapping the ham for roast turkey after Thanksgiving. Use roasted butternut squash or red pepper for a vegetarian version. Sprinkle with zaatar or sesame for a Middle Eastern twist.

Success Stories

The first time I made these at a family brunch everyone wanted to snap a photo. A friend once shaped them as stars and snowflakes for a holiday appetizer party and they disappeared within minutes. Even the pickiest eaters went back for seconds thanks to that magical puff pastry crunch.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze before baking arrange assembled trees on a tray and freeze until firm. Transfer to a bag or container with parchment between layers. Bake straight from the freezer and brush again with melted butter for best results. This makes stress-free entertaining a breeze.

These ham and cheese trees are a fun, festive way to impress your guests with minimal effort. The savory flavors and flaky pastry make this recipe a sure crowd-pleaser every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese works best?

Gruyère, smoked cheddar, or mozzarella all melt beautifully and add distinct flavors to complement the ham.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Thinly sliced turkey or roast chicken are good alternatives to ham for a different taste or dietary preference.

→ How do I get a golden, glossy finish?

Brushing each tree with egg wash before baking ensures a shiny, golden exterior that’s both appetizing and beautiful.

→ What garnishes add a modern touch?

Try micro herbs, paprika dust, grated parmesan, or rosemary sprigs for minimalist yet striking presentation.

→ Can these be made ahead?

Shape the pastries and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake just before serving for optimal flakiness and warmth.

→ How should I serve these pastries?

Arrange the baked trees on a marble or matte platter for a clean, festive look at gatherings or celebrations.