Description
Flaky, golden puff pastry shaped like a Christmas tree and filled with bright green basil pesto — a festive, delicious appetizer that’s easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- ½ cup basil pesto
Toppings
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the bread.
- Prepare the pastry layers: Lay one sheet of thawed puff pastry flat on your work surface. Evenly spread the basil pesto over this sheet, making sure to cover the entire surface for consistent flavor.
- Layer the pastry: Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the pesto-covered sheet, aligning the edges carefully.
- Shape the Christmas tree: Cut the layered pastry into a large triangle resembling a Christmas tree. This will be the base shape of your festive bread.
- Create the branches: Using a sharp knife, make several slits on both sides of the triangle but keep the center intact. Twist each strip gently away from the center to form tree branches that showcase the green pesto filling.
- Apply egg wash and cheese: Beat the egg and gently brush it over the entire pastry tree. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top to add a golden color and a savory finish during baking.
- Bake the bread: Transfer the shaped pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Serve warm: Let the bread cool slightly before serving. This appetizer is delightful on its own or paired with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes between the pesto layer for a pop of color and additional flavor contrast.
- Serve the bread warm with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce to enhance the festive appeal.
- Ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed but cold before working with it to maintain its flakiness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
