Ham Cheese Puff Pastry Trees

These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Christmas Trees make for a fun and festive appetizer that will wow your guests at holiday gatherings. Flaky layers of golden puff pastry hug savory ham and creamy cheese, baked into charming little tree shapes on skewers. They are easy to prepare, visually appealing, and perfect for sharing.

I first made these for a Christmas party and everyone raved about them. Now they are one of my goto recipes for holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry: Two sheets of thawed puff pastry made from allbutter for the flakiest crust
• Ham: Twelve slices of thin deli ham choose a goodquality ham for better flavor
• Cheese: Twelve slices of cheese cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella each adds a unique twist to the taste
• Wooden skewers: Twentyfour wooden skewers used to shape the trees and make them easy to serve
• Melted butter: Four tablespoons of melted butter adds richness and helps the herbs stick
• Minced garlic: Two teaspoons of minced garlic boosts the savory flavor of the butter
• Chopped parsley: Two tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and a touch of color
• Sesame or poppy seeds: A sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds optional adds an appealing crunch and decoration

Instructions

Slicing and layering:

Lay out one sheet of puff pastry on a clean flat surface. Layer the cheese slices evenly over it, then layer the ham slices on top. Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry and gently press down so the layers stick together.

Cutting into strips:

Using a very sharp knife, slice the layered puff pastry into thin strips about one inch wide. This size works well for shaping the trees without spilling the filling.

Shaping the Christmas trees:

Thread each pastry strip onto a wooden skewer and fold the strip back and forth around the skewer. This creates a layered tree shape with the edges of ham and cheese peeking out.

Preparing the herb butter:

In a small bowl mix the melted butter with the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture generously over each tree for added flavor and a golden finish after baking.

Baking to perfection:

Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius for 20 to 25 minutes. The puff pastry will puff up nicely and turn golden brown.

Cooling and serving:

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a rack before serving warm. These are perfect for eating straight off the skewer as a party appetizer.

My favorite ingredient here has to be the puff pastry it transforms the simple ham and cheese into something fancy and flaky that feels special. I remember making these with my kids who loved folding the strips around the skewers, giggling as they created their tree shapes.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try prosciutto or turkey slices instead of ham for a different taste. Use your favorite melting cheese or even a combination for varied flavor profiles. For a vegetarian option replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple dipping sauce such as honey mustard, a garlic aioli, or a tangy cranberry chutney. They pair wonderfully with sparkling wine or festive cocktails.

These ham and cheese puff pastry trees are a festive and effortless appetizer that will impress guests. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of cheese works best for these puff pastry trees?

Cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella all melt well and complement the ham's savory flavor.

→ Can I prepare the puff pastry trees ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking to maintain freshness.

→ Is there a way to add extra flavor to the puff pastry trees?

Brushing them with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and fresh parsley adds aromatic notes and richness.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently to retain flakiness.

→ Can I use alternative meats instead of ham?

Thinly sliced turkey or prosciutto make excellent substitutions that pair well with cheese.

→ What is the best baking temperature and time?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.