Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees

Name: Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed; 6 slices of ham, chopped; 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Flour for dusting; Seasonings (salt, pepper, optional)

Highlighted under: Holiday & Seasonal

A delightful holiday treat that combines flaky pastry with savory ham and cheese, perfect for festive gatherings.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:22:21.245Z

These Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are a fun and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. The combination of flaky pastry and savory fillings makes them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flaky and buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
Savory filling of ham and cheese that is always a hit
Perfect for holiday parties or as a festive appetizer

      

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees are not just a delicious snack; they are a festive centerpiece for any holiday gathering. These delightful pastries capture the essence of Christmas with their charming tree shape, making them a conversation starter that guests will love. Whether you’re hosting a casual family get-together or a formal holiday party, these treats add a touch of whimsy and cheer to your table.

The combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike. You can prepare them in advance and bake them just before your guests arrive, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone anticipating the feast.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Try adding sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or even spices to give them a unique twist. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ham with spinach or mushrooms for a savory delight that everyone can enjoy.

Additionally, these pastries can be served as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a holiday brunch spread. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling, allowing guests to enjoy them without the need for utensils. This adaptability ensures that they will fit seamlessly into any festive occasion.

A Fun Activity for the Whole Family

Making Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees can be a fun and engaging activity for the whole family. Gather your loved ones in the kitchen to roll out the pastry and shape the trees together. This collaborative effort not only makes the cooking process more enjoyable, but it also creates lasting memories during the holiday season.

Kids will love helping to fill the triangles and sealing the edges. Plus, watching the pastries puff up in the oven is always a delightful surprise! This recipe is a great way to introduce children to cooking while also teaching them about the joy of holiday traditions.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these festive treats:

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
6 slices of ham, chopped
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Flour for dusting
Seasonings (salt, pepper, optional)

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting to assemble the trees.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out.

Cut the Tree Shapes

Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into triangular shapes to resemble Christmas trees.

Fill the Pastry

Place a small amount of chopped ham and shredded cheese in the center of each triangle.

Shape the Trees

Fold the sides of the triangle inward to form the shape of a tree and seal the edges with a fork.

Egg Wash

Brush the tops of the pastry trees with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake

Place the trees on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your festive treat!

These delightful trees can be served warm or at room temperature.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees, storing them properly will ensure they maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Allow the pastries to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

For longer storage, you can freeze unbaked pastry trees. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for the perfect golden finish.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your holiday spread, consider pairing Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with a variety of dips and sauces. A tangy mustard or a rich cheese sauce can elevate the flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the savory pastry. Additionally, a light cranberry sauce or a sweet chutney would complement the richness of the ham and cheese beautifully.

For beverages, serve these pastries with sparkling cider, mulled wine, or a festive punch to create a holiday atmosphere. The combination of flavors will not only satisfy your guests' appetites but also create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the spirit of the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe and saves time!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these Christmas trees?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked trees. Just assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container.

→ What can I serve with these trees?

They pair well with a festive dip or a side salad for a complete meal.