Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe

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If you’re on the hunt for a festive, delicious finger food that combines flaky, buttery layers with savory ham and melty cheese, look no further than the Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe. These charming pastry trees are perfect for holiday parties, cozy brunches, or whenever you want to impress guests with a dish that looks as delightful as it tastes. Best of all, they come together quickly, making them a go-to recipe when you want wow-worthy results with minimal fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive appeal. From buttery puff pastry to savory deli ham and your choice of melty cheese, these components come together effortlessly to create something truly special.

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed): The flaky base that provides all the buttery layers and crispiness essential for a pastry tree.
• 12 slices deli ham (thinly sliced): Offers a savory, slightly salty flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• 12 slices cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella): Melts perfectly and adds a creamy, rich element to each bite.
• 24 wooden skewers: The clever way to shape and hold your pastry trees together while baking.
• Optional Garlic Butter Glaze: Combines 4 tbsp melted butter, 2 tsp minced garlic, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to add a fragrant, golden finish.
• Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional): For that extra touch of holiday flair and a little crunch.

How to Make Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your pastry trees will bake evenly and not stick, preserving their delicate layers and beautiful shape.

Step 2: Assemble the Layers

Lay out one sheet of puff pastry on a flat surface, then layer with slices of cheese followed by the ham. Top with the second puff pastry sheet and gently press down so the layers meld slightly but remain distinct. This sandwich of ingredients is the heart of the recipe and will puff up beautifully when baked.

Step 3: Cut and Shape the Strips

Slice your layered pastry into 1-inch-wide strips. Next, pick up each strip and start folding it back and forth around a wooden skewer to mimic the shape of a Christmas tree. This simple technique creates a stunning visual effect and ensures every bite has that classic flaky texture.

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter Glaze

Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley to create a fragrant glaze. Brush this over your shaped pastry trees before baking for an irresistibly golden crust packed with flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle optional sesame or poppy seeds if you want to add extra sparkle and texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your skewered pastry trees on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and a rich golden brown. The aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pastry trees to cool slightly before removing the skewers and serving. These beauties shine best when warm but remain tasty even at room temperature, making them ideal for parties where guests graze over time.

How to Serve Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few delicate star-shaped cheese cutouts can add a whimsical touch to your pastry trees. These small garnishes not only enhance the holiday presentation but also impart a fresh burst of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these pastry trees with a crisp winter salad of mixed greens, cranberries, and candied pecans for a light contrast. Another great companion is a bowl of creamy tomato soup, which complements the cheesy, savory richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange several Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe creations standing upright on a festive platter for a striking centerpiece. You can even thread fairy lights around the display to heighten the holiday magic. For a sweet-savory spin, spread a thin layer of fig jam or honey mustard beneath the cheese—this will surprise and delight your guests with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pastry trees are great to save and enjoy later. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered preserves their flaky texture and keeps the ham and cheese fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze these pastries before baking by assembling and shaping the trees, then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to a month, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen pastry trees in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puff pastry soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ham in the Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe?

Absolutely! Smoked ham, honey-baked ham, or even turkey slices work wonderfully if you want to switch things up or cater to different tastes.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ham for a flavorful spinach-artichoke spread or grilled veggies to keep the same festive look while accommodating vegetarians.

What cheese melts best for these pastry trees?

Cheddar, gouda, Swiss, and mozzarella are top picks due to their melting quality and mild flavor profiles that blend well with the ham and pastry.

Can I prepare the pastry trees ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely! You can assemble and shape the trees, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight before baking fresh.

Do I have to use wooden skewers?

Wooden skewers help maintain the tree shape during baking, but if you don’t have them, you can try oven-safe metal skewers or simply twist the dough carefully on a clean flat surface.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Ham & Cheese Holiday Pastry Trees Recipe enough for your next celebration. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum charm. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a casual get-together, these tasty little trees will bring warmth, flavor, and festive cheer to any table. Give them a try—you might just find a new holiday tradition in the making!

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