Christmas Tree Pastry Recipe with Nutella Filling (2024)

The festive season is upon us! Among all the joy and traditions, there’s something absolutely enchanting about preparing holiday-themed treats, especially when they come in the form of our beloved Christmas tree. While browsing for the ultimateChristmas tree pastry recipe, I stumbled upon a gem that’s not only delicious but also straightforward to make. So, grab your sheets of puff pastry and let’s dive into this.

Creating the perfect Christmas tree pastry recipe doesn't have to be complicated. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can prepare a festive pull-apart appetizer that will be the star of your holiday table. Once baked and golden, this delightful treat has layers that easily pull apart, making it a good idea for those seeking a recipe gluten-free. While there are many affiliate links offering full ingredients list and intricate designs, mastering this basic approach ensures a stunning Christmas tree appetizer every time.

Puff pastry christmas tree recipe

Ingredients

• 1 package Gluten Free Easy Puff Pastry Sheet, thawed according to package directions
• Corn starch or tapioca starch for dusting
• 1/2 cup Nutella® or another chocolate hazelnut spread
• 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
• 1 egg plus 1 tsp vanilla extract beaten (for egg wash)
• Flakey sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
• Christmas themed small candies, sprinkles, and chocolates

Puff pastry nutella christmas tree Process:

Roll and Cut

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get that baking sheet ready with a piece of parchment paper.
2. Dust your work surface with cornstarch. Now, take out your thawed sheets of puff pastry and roll them into a large rectangle. If you’ve opted for homemade puff pastry, make sure it's been chilled and is at room temperature for rolling.
3. For our beautiful Christmas tree shape, use a sharp knife or even a tree-shaped cookie cutter. You'll need two identical shapes.

Layer and Twist

4. Here's where the magic happens! Take one of your cut-out sheets of pastry and generously spread that luscious chocolate-hazelnut spread, leaving a tiny border.
5. Now, sprinkle your choice of finely chopped nuts evenly over the chocolate spread. Imagine it as the garland draping over the top of the tree.
6. Carefully place the second sheet of pastry on top, sealing the edges ever so gently.

Creating the Aesthetic

7. To craft the iconic Christmas tree branches, make vertical cuts from the bottom up, leaving the center untouched to resemble a tree trunk.
8. Gently twist these branches, exposing the layers of the chocolate spread and nuts.
9. Don't forget the egg wash. The beaten egg is the secret to that enticing golden brown finish.

Bake and Decorate

10. Pop the tree onto your parchment paper-lined baking sheet, sprinkle some sea salt (if that's your thing), and bake till it turns a delicious golden brown (roughly 20-25 minutes).
11. A slight dusting of powdered sugar creates the effect of fresh snow.
12. Finally, adorn your nutella puff pastry christmas tree with festive candies, making it the centerpiece of your Christmas table.

Pro Tips for an Exquisite Pastry:

1. Choose Your Pastry Wisely: While store-bought puff pastry is a godsend during the busy holiday season, opting for a homemade puff pastry recipe can genuinely make your dessert stand out. Although it's a little bit more work, the difference in flavor and texture can be worth it. Plus, if you need a guide, there are plenty of step instructions and recipe cards available online to guide you through the process.
2. Flexibility in Fillings: Nutella® is undeniably delicious, but remember, this puff pastry tree is yours to customize. If you're not into chocolate-hazelnut, try a layer of pesto for a savory twist or cream cheese mixed with a sprinkle of garlic powder and onion powder. Peanut butter or dulce de leche can also be delightful alternatives for those with a sweet tooth.
3. Preparation is Key: Ensure your sheets of puff pastry are at the right consistency. They should be thawed to room temperature - pliable but not overly soft. If they become too warm, pop them back into the refrigerator for a bit.
4. Get Creative with Shapes: When preparing the outline of a Christmas tree, don't limit yourself to just one shape of a Christmas tree. Whether you prefer wide strips, long rectangles, or the adorable tree silhouette with a prominent trunk of the tree, using a sharp pizza cutter or pizza wheel can help achieve precise cuts.
5. Seasonal Flavor Boosts: Before baking, consider brushing your tree with melted butter mixed with a dash of cinnamon sugar. It gives the entire surface a holiday-inspired touch. And for those who want to get experimental, sprinkle some sesame seeds for added texture.
6. Serve at Parties: This puff pastry Christmas tree dessert isn't just a treat; it's a showstopper. Whether you're hosting Christmas parties or attending one, it's guaranteed to be the star of the show. Just be ready to share the full recipe and ingredients list, because people will ask!
7. Savory Alternatives: If sweet isn't your thing, there are plenty of savory filling options to explore. Imagine a puff pastry tree filled with different cheeses, cherry tomatoes, and sprinkled with cocoa powder. Sounds unconventional, but it's Christmas time – time to get creative!
8. Equipment Essentials: While many of us might have a rolling pin and baking tray, don't underestimate the power of a food processor for making homemade pastries. It can help you achieve that perfect dough consistency. And always remember to lay baking paper on your tray for easy removal after baking.
9. Add-ons and Garnishes: Top of the Christmas tree with a star cookie cutter piece of pastry or even a candy cane shape for added festivity. These small details make your pastry feel special for the occasion.
10. Storage Tips: If by any chance you have christmas tree puff pastry leftovers, store them in an airtight container. But, given how delicious this is, I'd be surprised if there's even a single piece left!

FAQs for the Perfect Pastry:

Why use egg wash on pastry?

Theegg washgives the pastry a lovely golden brown sheen. It makes your pastry look professionally done and adds a subtle depth of flavor.

Can I use something other than Nutella®?

Absolutely! Whilechocolate hazelnut spreadis a favorite, feel free to get creative with fillings. From cream cheese to jams or even savory fillings, go wild!

Is homemade puff pastry better than store-bought?

Both have their merits.Homemade puff pastrygives you control over ingredients and can taste richer. However, store-bought is a time-saver and can yield equally scrumptious results, especially for this recipe.

Can I store the Christmas tree pastry for later?

Definitely. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It's best enjoyed within a day or two.

How can I make the pastry more festive?

Apart from the candies and sprinkles, consider adding cranberries or even drizzling white chocolate for a winter feel. Let your creativity shine!

Key Takeaways:

• Versatility is Key: This recipe is adaptable. Feel free to swap out fillings or use a different assortment of nuts to suit your taste.
• Puff Pastry Fundamentals: Whether using the first or second sheet of puff pastry, ensuring they're at the right temperature makes a big difference. Lay out the first sheet into a long rectangle, and when layering, keep an eye on the sides of the triangle to maintain that classic tree shape.
• Golden Finish: An egg wash is more than just a step; it brings out that rich, professional look in baked goods. Don't skip it!
• Homemade vs. Store-Bought: While it's quick and easy to grab a store-bought pastry, trying your hand at a homemade version can be rewarding. It's always a good idea to taste and compare.
• Decoration Time: After getting the base pastry ready, dive into decorating. With a sweet filling and your choice of toppings, make this pastry uniquely yours.

The festive season is all about crafting memories, and with this recipe, not only will you make delicious memories, but you'll also have a stunning edible centerpiece. So, don your aprons, roll out that pastry, and let the holiday baking begin!

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