Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe with you—it’s a festive showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. Picture buttery, flaky puff pastry shaped like a Christmas tree, layered with creamy herbed cheese, salty ham, and melty cheddar. It’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday brunches, parties, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort.

What makes this recipe special is how effortlessly it combines flavors and presentation. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop reaching for the crispy, cheesy branches. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main attraction, you’re going to love how this Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe brings that festive vibe to your table with loads of flavor and zero stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients that complement each other beautifully. When you’re shopping, I recommend picking good-quality puff pastry and fresh cheeses for the best results—it really makes all the difference in taste and texture.

• Puff pastry sheets: Store-bought works great and saves you time; make sure they’re fully thawed before you start.
• Boursin cheese or herbed cream cheese: This adds a lovely garlicky, herby creaminess that pairs perfectly with the ham.
• Prosciutto, salami, or capocollo: Use your favorite cured meat; prosciutto gives a delicate salty bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth and melts beautifully inside the layers.
• Mixed seeds: Poppy, sesame, and flax seeds add texture and a rustic look when sprinkled on top.
• Egg wash (egg + milk): To brush over your pastry for a gorgeous golden finish.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own by swapping out fillings or adding extra flavors—it’s a fantastic base for getting creative. Feel free to tailor the Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe to whatever you enjoy or have on hand!

• Vegetarian version: Try swapping ham for sautéed mushrooms and spinach. I made this once for a veggie-loving friend, and it was just as tasty.
• Spicy twist: Add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika into the cheese mixture for a kick.
• Cheese swap: Gruyère or mozzarella work beautifully if you want a different melt and flavor profile.
• Healthy option: Use whole wheat puff pastry and add more seeds on top for extra fiber and crunch.

How to Make Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Puff Pastry Ready

Start by letting your puff pastry sheets thaw until they’re soft but still cold—this usually takes about 20–30 minutes at room temperature. Making sure they’re not too warm helps prevent the pastry from becoming sticky and hard to handle. Meanwhile, lightly flour your work surface to avoid any sticking when rolling or shaping later.

Step 2: Spread the Cheese and Layer the Meats

Place one sheet of puff pastry on your prepared surface, then gently spread the Boursin or herbed cream cheese evenly over it, leaving a small border around the edges. Next, layer your slices of prosciutto (or chosen meat) evenly on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering is where those delicious savory flavors come to life!

Step 3: Assemble and Shape the Christmas Tree

Place the second puff pastry sheet over the toppings, pressing down gently to seal the layers. Using a sharp knife, cut the stacked pastry into a large triangle, which will be your “tree.” Then, cut horizontal slits on each side of the triangle to form branches—but leave the center intact for structure. Twist each branch outward carefully to reveal the fillings. Don’t rush this part; it’s what gives your pastry that festive tree look!

Step 4: Add Seeds, Brush Egg Wash, and Bake

Give your tree a good egg wash to get that shiny, golden crust, and sprinkle your mixed seeds over the top for an extra touch of texture and festive appeal. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on it toward the end so it doesn’t overbrown.

How to Serve Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish my Christmas tree with a handful of fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs—they look like little evergreen branches and add an aromatic touch. A light sprinkle of sea salt flakes right after baking really brings out the pastry’s flavor too.

Side Dishes

This savory tree pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, maybe a simple arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or some roasted veggies on the side. For a cozy winter touch, I sometimes serve it alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup—it’s like the ultimate snack-meets-meal combo.

Creative Ways to Present

I like placing the puff pastry Christmas tree on a wooden board with little bowls of mustard and chutney nearby for dipping. For holiday parties, wrapping fairy lights around the board or adding some colorful ornaments around really amps up the festive feel—and trust me, your guests will be impressed by the presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I store any leftover Christmas tree wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the fridge. The next day, the pastry softens a bit but still tastes great, especially if you reheat it properly (more on that soon).

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, you can freeze the assembled tree before baking. I wrap it tightly in cling film and then foil, and when I’m ready, I thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. This way, it tastes fresh and flaky like you just made it.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers without losing crispiness, I pop them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the pastry soggy, and we want those crispy layers every time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Savoury Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Ham and Cheese Recipe has become one of my go-to festive treats because it’s both beautiful and delicious with very little fuss. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s so rewarding to see how a few simple ingredients transform into something festive and fun. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll be a hit at your next celebration!

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