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Basil Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Recipe

Basil Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

A festive and stunning centrepiece for holiday gatherings, this Basil Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree combines flaky pastry with savory pesto and cheese for a delightful appetizer.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pastry
  • 2 sheets Puff pastry sheets Ensure they are cold for best results
For the filling
  • 1 cup Basil pesto Store-bought is convenient; choose a brand compatible with cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded cheese Choose a variety that melts well, like mozzarella or cheddar

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a clean surface, roll out one puff pastry sheet and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Spread basil pesto evenly over the pastry, leaving a border around the edges.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pesto.
  5. Roll out the second puff pastry sheet and place it over the first sheet, pressing the edges to seal.
Shaping and Baking
  1. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into a tree shape, ensuring to include branches.
  2. Make cuts along the edges of the branches to create a flaked look, being careful not to cut through the trunk.
  3. Gently twist the branches to expose the filling.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden and puffed up.
Serving
  1. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally serve with marinara or another dipping sauce.

Notes

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a perfect puff. Consider serving with fresh vegetables or a simple cheese platter for a more festive spread.