Basil Pesto Cheesy Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Basil Pesto Cheesy Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is the perfect festive appetizer to impress your guests. This visually stunning dish combines layers of flaky puff pastry, aromatic basil pesto, and gooey cheese, creating a delightful centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this cheesy treat will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lined baking sheet and spread the pesto mixture evenly on one side.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the pesto layer.
- Place another puff pastry sheet on top and cut into a tree shape.
- Create branches by making slits along the edges without cutting through.
- Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, swap in sun-dried tomato pesto or mix in different cheeses like gouda or feta. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.