Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
A festive treat that brings both joy and flavor to your holiday gatherings, the Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is sure to be a showstopper. This creative appetizer not only looks stunning but also combines the savory goodness of chicken ham and cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or as an elegant snack, this recipe is versatile and easy to make, ensuring it will become a holiday favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually Stunning: The tree shape makes this dish a centerpiece that wows your guests.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken ham and cheese creates a rich, savory taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this festive treat in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties or family gatherings, everyone can enjoy a piece.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite fillings or toppings for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness as it holds the pastry during baking.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the puff pastry evenly for consistent thickness.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying egg wash to achieve a golden finish on your pastry.
Ingredients
A festive puff pastry tree filled with chicken ham and cheese, twisted to create beautiful branches. Served with optional cheesy mornay sauce.
For the Pastry
- 2 sheets puff pastry (320g each)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 12 slices wafer thin chicken ham
- 150g cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1 egg, beaten
- Grated parmesan for serving
For the Cheesy Mornay Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 240ml milk
- 60g gruyere cheese, grated
- ⅛ teaspoon each salt, white pepper, nutmeg

How to Make Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s essential to keep the puff pastry cold until you’re ready to bake for optimal flakiness.
Step 2: Prepare Your Base
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Spread it evenly with Dijon mustard. Layer the chicken ham slices followed by the finely grated cheddar cheese. Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry.
Step 3: Cut Into Shape
Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into a Christmas tree shape. Make branches about 1-inch wide. Don’t forget to cut out decorations from any leftover pastry!
Step 4: Twist the Branches
Twist each branch of the tree 1-2 times. Start from the bottom of the tree working upwards; twist less towards the top for a more natural look.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the shaped tree with beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color when baked. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until it’s golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Make Cheesy Mornay Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth before gradually whisking in milk. Cook until thickened. Add gruyere cheese along with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until melted and combined.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once baked, carefully add decorations made from leftover pastry on top of your tree and dust with grated parmesan before serving warm with cheesy mornay sauce on the side.
Enjoy this delightful Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree at your next festive gathering!
How to Serve Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Serving your Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree can be a delightful experience for your guests. This festive dish not only looks stunning but also pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.
With a Cheesy Mornay Sauce
- Serve the warm cheesy mornay sauce on the side for dipping. This creamy sauce adds an extra layer of cheese goodness that complements the chicken and ham perfectly.
As a Star Appetizer
- Present the puff pastry tree as the centerpiece of your appetizer table. Its eye-catching design will attract guests and make it a memorable start to your holiday meal.
Accompanied by Fresh Salad
- Pair with a light, fresh salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pastry and keep things refreshing.
With Red Pepper Jelly
- Offer a small dish of red pepper jelly alongside. The sweet and spicy contrast will elevate the savory flavors of the cheesy puff pastry tree.
Accompanied by Warm Bread Rolls
- Serve with warm, soft bread rolls. These can be perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy sauce or just enjoyed on their own.

How to Perfect Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Creating the perfect Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish:
- Use cold ingredients – Keeping your puff pastry cold while preparing ensures it bakes up flaky and light.
- Cut evenly – When shaping the tree, ensure all branches are cut evenly for uniform baking and presentation.
- Twist gently – Twist each branch just enough to create texture without tearing the pastry.
- Don’t skip egg wash – Brushing with egg wash before baking gives your tree a beautiful golden finish.
- Experiment with fillings – Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Serve immediately – Enjoying it fresh from the oven ensures maximum crispiness and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Pairing sides with your Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree will enhance your holiday spread. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:
- Garlic Butter Green Beans – Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter provide a vibrant color and crunch.
- Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty companion that complements the pastry.
- Creamy Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the rich flavors of the puff pastry.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an additional bite-sized treat that pairs well with this festive dish.
- Cranberry Sauce – A dollop of cranberry sauce offers sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the meal.
- Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet, honey-glazed carrots add both color and flavor, making them an appealing side option.
- Spinach Salad with Nuts – A spinach salad topped with nuts and a light dressing brings freshness and texture to your table.
- Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses enhances the theme of cheese in the main dish while providing variety for guests to enjoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using puff pastry can be tricky, especially when creating a Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Not keeping the pastry cold: Puff pastry needs to remain cold until baking. If it warms up, it won’t puff properly. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
- Overfilling the pastry: It’s tempting to add more filling, but overstuffing can cause the pastry to burst. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
- Ignoring egg wash: Skipping the egg wash can lead to a dull appearance. Brush the tree with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Cutting branches unevenly: Uneven branches can ruin the visual appeal of your Christmas tree. Use a ruler or template for consistent cuts.
- Not baking on parchment paper: Placing the pastry directly on a baking sheet can lead to sticking. Always use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make it soggy.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree.
Can I use different meats?
Yes! You can substitute chicken ham with turkey or even prosciutto for different flavors.
How do I make it vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, replace chicken ham with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms and add more cheese.
What dips go well with this dish?
Several dips pair nicely, including marinara sauce or a simple garlic aioli.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the tree and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to add the egg wash right before baking.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy chicken ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is not only festive but also versatile, making it a perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize your filling with your favorite ingredients or herbs. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a holiday favorite!
Cheesy Chicken Ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Indulge in the festive spirit with a Cheesy Chicken Ham Puff Pastry Christmas Tree, a show-stopping appetizer that will leave your guests in awe. This delightful creation combines savory chicken ham and gooey cheese, all elegantly wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for holiday parties or family gatherings, this recipe is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. With customizable fillings and a delightful cheesy mornay sauce for dipping, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite that brings joy and flavor to your celebrations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry (320g each)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 12 slices wafer-thin chicken ham
- 150g cheddar cheese, finely grated
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 240ml milk
- 60g gruyere cheese (grated)
- Salt
- White pepper
- Nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface and spread with Dijon mustard. Layer chicken ham and cheddar cheese on top, then cover with the second pastry sheet.
- Cut into a Christmas tree shape with branches about 1-inch wide and twist each branch gently.
- Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- For the Cheesy Mornay Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour until smooth, gradually whisk in milk until thickened; add gruyere cheese and seasonings.
- Serve warm with the sauce on the side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg