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Basil pesto cheesy puff pastry Christmas tree appetizer on a festive table

Basil Pesto Cheesy Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

This festive appetizer combines flaky puff pastry with a flavorful basil pesto and melted cheese, all shaped into a charming Christmas tree for your holiday table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 sheets Puff Pastry Sheets
  • 1/2 cup Basil Pesto
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 Large Egg
For Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 Cherry Tomato for the star
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Basil Leaves chopped

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Pastry brush
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Carefully unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.
Assemble the Tree
  1. Evenly spread the basil pesto over the first puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto layer.
  3. Place the second sheet of puff pastry directly on top of the cheese layer.
  4. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, trim the edges to form a large Christmas tree shape, keeping a central "trunk" area at the bottom.
  5. Cut horizontal strips on both sides of the central trunk, about 1 inch wide, stopping before the trunk.
  6. Carefully twist each pastry strip a few times, moving from the bottom branches upwards.
Bake and Serve
  1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash, then lightly brush it over the entire pastry tree.
  2. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Optionally, place a small cherry tomato at the top for a star and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy this festive and delicious appetizer.

Notes

This appetizer is perfect for holiday parties and can be prepared a little in advance. You can customize the filling with other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or different cheeses. Serve immediately for the best flaky texture.