Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Tree Skewers Recipe

Introduction

This Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry is a delightful appetizer that’s both elegant and easy to make. Crispy, flaky pastry layers sandwich savory ham and melty cheese, perfect for gatherings or a special snack.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella work well)
• 24 wooden skewers
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional holiday flair)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Lay out one sheet of puff pastry. Arrange the cheese slices evenly on top, followed by the ham slices. Place the second sheet of puff pastry over the layers and press down lightly to seal.
3. Step 3: Slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Fold each strip back and forth onto a wooden skewer to create a tree-like shape.
4. Step 4: Combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the shaped pastry trees. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired.
5. Step 5: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Allow to cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm but still delicious at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam under the cheese for a sweet-savory twist.
• Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top as decorative “tree toppers” for a festive touch.
• Swap ham for turkey or use spinach-artichoke spread for a delicious vegetarian version.

Storage

Store leftover puff pastry trees in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pastry trees and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking. Just cover them well to prevent the pastry from drying out.

What type of cheese works best?

Semi-firm cheeses like cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella melt well and complement the ham nicely, but feel free to use your favorite cheese.

Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Tree Skewers Recipe

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Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Trees are festive and delicious appetizers perfect for holiday gatherings. Layers of flaky puff pastry, savory deli ham, and melty cheese are transformed into charming tree shapes using skewers, brushed with a garlic-parsley butter glaze, then baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 24 puff pastry trees 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry & Meat

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed)
• 12 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)

Cheese

• 12 slices of cheese (cheddar, gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella)

Glaze

• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Additional

• 24 wooden skewers
• Sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
• Thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam (optional for sweet-savory flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Assemble Layers: Lay out one pastry sheet flat on a clean surface. Arrange cheese slices evenly over the pastry, then layer with deli ham slices. Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet on top and gently press down to seal the layers together.
3. Cut and Shape: Slice the layered pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and fold it back and forth around a wooden skewer to form a festive tree shape, ensuring the folds create a layered look.
4. Brush Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. Brush this flavorful glaze generously over each folded pastry tree. If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over the top for added texture and visual appeal.
5. Bake: Place the prepared pastry trees on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puff pastry is fully puffed and golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the trees to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm but remain tasty at room temperature, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.

Notes

• Use star-shaped cheese cutouts on top of the trees for a decorative holiday touch.
• For a sweet-savory twist, spread a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam beneath the cheese layer before assembling.
• Substitute ham with turkey slices or use a spinach-artichoke spread for a vegetarian alternative.
• Make sure puff pastry is fully thawed before using to ensure easy handling and even baking.
• Wooden skewers help maintain the tree shape during baking; make sure to fold pastry tightly around them.

Keywords: ham and cheese puff pastry, holiday appetizers, puff pastry trees, savory puff pastry snacks