Christmas Tree Puff Pastry Bites are a festive and elegant appetizer, perfect for weddings, holiday gatherings, and special celebrations. These delicate pastries feature a golden puff pastry base, creamy pesto-infused spread, and a beautifully arranged zucchini spiral that resembles a Christmas tree. Garnished with cherry tomatoes and optional cheese stars, these bites add a touch of holiday charm to any event.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & Elegant – A visually stunning appetizer that enhances any holiday-themed event.
- Simple Yet Impressive – Easy to assemble while looking gourmet and sophisticated.
- Delicious Flavor Combination – Buttery puff pastry, creamy pesto spread, and fresh veggies create a perfect balance of flavors.
- Customizable – Can be adapted with different spreads, vegetables, or toppings.
- Perfect for Weddings & Holidays – A unique, eye-catching appetizer that stands out on a snack table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup pesto
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- Small star-shaped cheese cutouts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into small circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Place the pastry circles on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese and pesto until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of the mixture onto each baked puff pastry round.
- Arrange the thinly sliced zucchini in a spiral pattern to resemble a Christmas tree.
- Place a cherry tomato half at the base of each “tree” and top with a small cheese star (if using).
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Herb Spread – Add minced garlic or Italian herbs to the cream cheese for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use dairy-free cream cheese and skip the cheese stars.
- Different Vegetables – Substitute zucchini with thin cucumber slices or spinach leaves for a different look.
- Puff Pastry Shapes – Instead of circles, cut the puff pastry into tree shapes for a more festive touch.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto – Swap classic pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer, tangier flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these puff pastry bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the puff pastry rounds and prepare the pesto spread in advance, but assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well, but homemade pesto will provide a fresher taste.
What other vegetables can I use instead of zucchini?
Thinly sliced cucumbers, spinach, or asparagus can be used for a different presentation.
Can I freeze these puff pastry bites?
It is best to freeze the unbaked puff pastry rounds and bake them fresh when needed. Fully assembled bites do not freeze well due to the cream cheese spread.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Let the pastry rounds cool completely before adding the spread, and avoid assembling too far in advance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free puff pastry alternative for a gluten-free version.
What type of cheese works best for the star cutouts?
Cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan are great choices for holding their shape.
Can I add protein to these bites?
Yes, thinly sliced smoked salmon or prosciutto would make excellent additions.
How can I make the presentation even more festive?
Use red and yellow cherry tomatoes to create a colorful decoration, or drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elegant finish.
Are these puff pastry bites served warm or cold?
They are best served warm or at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Christmas Tree Puff Pastry Bites are a delightful, elegant appetizer that brings a festive touch to weddings, holiday parties, and special occasions. With their buttery puff pastry base, creamy pesto spread, and beautifully arranged zucchini trees, these bites are sure to impress your guests. Whether served as part of a wedding snack table or a holiday appetizer spread, they are a delicious and visually stunning addition to any celebration.
