Get ready to transform your holiday dessert table with the most Instagram-worthy treat that's as delicious as it is stunning! This Christmas Tree Puff Pastry is not just a dessert; it's an edible work of art that combines the flaky elegance of puff pastry with the sweet charm of almond paste, all dressed up in festive green and sprinkled with holiday cheer. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry pro, this recipe promises to become the centerpiece of your Christmas celebration that will have everyone asking, "How did you make that?"
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Holiday
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup almond paste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Green food coloring
- Decorative sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it's completely defrosted and at room temperature.
- In a small bowl, mix almond paste with a few drops of green food coloring until you achieve a uniform Christmas tree green color.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet slightly to smooth out any creases and create a clean rectangular shape.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into a large triangular tree shape, keeping the base wide and tapering to a point at the top.
- Spread the green-tinted almond paste evenly across the pastry tree, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully fold the edges of the pastry inward to create a slight raised border, which will help contain the filling.
- Brush the entire pastry surface with beaten egg, which will help create a golden, shiny finish.
- Use a sharp knife to create gentle diagonal lines across the tree to simulate branches, being careful not to cut completely through the pastry.
- Transfer the prepared pastry tree to the lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve to create a snow-like effect.
- Sprinkle decorative holiday sprinkles over the tree for a festive finish.
- Slice into portions and serve warm as a delightful holiday dessert.
Tips
- Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cool for the best rise and texture.
- Use a sharp knife when cutting the tree shape to get clean, precise edges.
- Don't skip brushing with egg wash - it's the secret to that gorgeous golden sheen.
- Work quickly when spreading the green almond paste to prevent the pastry from getting too warm.
- Create a festive look by varying the thickness of your branch lines for a more natural tree appearance.
- Let the pastry cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
- For extra wow factor, serve immediately while still slightly warm and the pastry is at its crispiest.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
