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Golden puff pastry Christmas tree with pesto filling, twisted branches, and a light dusting of powdered sugar

Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Pesto

An easy Christmas appetizer made with flaky puff pastry, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Twisted into a beautiful pull-apart Christmas tree and baked until golden.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 sheets frozen puff pastry thawed
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut one puff pastry sheet into a Christmas tree shape.
  3. Spread pesto evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border.
  4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder.
  5. Cover with the second pastry sheet and trim to match the tree.
  6. Cut horizontal branches on both sides, leaving the center intact.
  7. Twist each branch gently one or two times.
  8. Decorate the top with a pastry star, if desired.
  9. Brush with beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
  11. Cool briefly and serve warm.

Notes

Keep puff pastry chilled for easier handling.
Avoid excess pesto to prevent sogginess.
Use extra Parmesan for savory decoration.
For a sweet version, replace pesto with Nutella and dust with powdered sugar after baking.