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HAM & CHEESE PUFF PASTRY CHRISTMAS TREES

Delicious, flaky Christmas trees made with ham and cheese, perfect for holiday gatherings and parties.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pastry and Fillings
  • 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
  • 12 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
  • 12 slices cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella) Fresh slices melt nicely.
Other Ingredients
  • 24 pieces wooden skewers
  • 4 tbsp melted butter Use unsalted butter to control the salt.
  • 2 tsp minced garlic Fresh garlic gives extra flavor.
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 pinch sesame or poppy seeds (optional) For holiday flair.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Lay out one puff pastry sheet. Top with cheese slices, then add ham slices. Optionally, spread a thin layer of fig jam or honey mustard under the cheese.
  3. Add the second sheet of pastry on top and press down lightly to seal.
  4. Slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips.
  5. Fold each strip back and forth onto a skewer to resemble a tree shape, pressing gently so layers stick.
Baking
  1. Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley, then brush over the trees.
  2. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden.
Serving
  1. Cool slightly and slide off the skewers. Add star-shaped cheese cutouts on top.
  2. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Freeze shaped trees on the tray for 10 minutes before baking. If the cheese oozes, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and bake longer. For a sweet-savory twist, swap ham for turkey and add fig jam.