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Basil Pesto Cheesy Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 58 reviews
  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This delightful Basil Pesto Cheesy Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a festive and savory appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of flaky puff pastry are spread with aromatic basil pesto and melted mozzarella cheese, then shaped into a whimsical Christmas tree and baked to golden perfection. Easy to make and irresistibly cheesy, this recipe adds a seasonal touch to any party menu.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Finishing

  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully heat to ensure even baking.
  2. Roll out the pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a parchment-lined baking tray and gently roll it out to smooth the surface and even thickness.
  3. Spread the pesto: Evenly spread 1/4 cup of basil pesto over the entire surface of the puff pastry, ensuring flavor distribution.
  4. Add the cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pesto layer for a rich, gooey filling.
  5. Seal with second pastry sheet: Place a second sheet of puff pastry on top and press lightly all around to seal the edges and the filling inside.
  6. Shape the tree: Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into a Christmas tree shape carefully, then make slits along the sides to form branches.
  7. Twist the branches: Gently twist each cut branch outward to create a layered, textured tree effect.
  8. Apply egg wash: Brush the entire top of the shaped pastry with beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden finish when baked.
  9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and fully puffed.
  10. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to allow the cheese to set and avoid burns.

Notes

  • For best results, keep the puff pastry cold until ready to use to prevent it from becoming sticky or tough.
  • You can substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor twist.
  • If you don’t have two sheets of puff pastry, halve the recipe or layer carefully with one sheet folded.
  • Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife for cleaner cuts of the pastry tree and branches.
  • This appetizer pairs well with a simple marinara dipping sauce or extra pesto on the side.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: basil pesto, cheesy puff pastry, Christmas tree appetizer, holiday recipe, festive snack, mozzarella, puff pastry appetizer

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Find it online: https://tastyadventureguide.com/basil-pesto-cheesy-puff-pastry-christmas-tree-recipe/