Introduction

This Chocolate Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a festive and fun holiday treat that’s as delicious as it is charming. Layers of flaky puff pastry filled with rich chocolate SunButter come together in a gorgeous tree shape that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s easy to make and sure to impress at any holiday gathering.

A Christmas tree shaped puff pastry with many twisted layers forming the branches, each branch alternating between golden brown and darker chocolate or cinnamon filling. The tree has a star at the top and a trunk at the bottom, both made from the same golden brown dough. The pastry is dusted generously with powdered sugar, placed on white parchment paper. Around it, there are scattered gold and white Christmas baubles, green pine branches, and a metal sifter dusted with powdered sugar. The whole scene rests on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
1/2 heaping cup Chocolate SunButter
1 large egg, for egg wash
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Spread the chocolate SunButter evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
Step 4: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and lay it directly on top of the first layer with the chocolate filling.
Step 5: Using a ruler for straight edges, cut out a short, wide tree trunk shape at the bottom of the rectangle.
Step 6: Place the ruler from the top center of the rectangle down to the bottom left corner and cut along the line. Repeat on the right side to create a triangle tree shape with a short trunk. Save the cut-off pieces for decorations like stars or additional twists.
Step 7: Using the ruler as a guide, cut 1-inch wide strips along both sides of the tree, stopping before the center so there’s an uncut gap running down the middle of the tree.
Step 8: Twist each strip by grabbing the ends, twisting twice away from you, and pressing the ends down to secure them. For the top 2-3 rows where the strips are shorter, only twist once.
Step 9: Beat the egg and brush it over the surface of the pastry tree. Cut out a star shape from the reserved scraps and place it on top of the tree, brushing it with egg wash as well.
Step 10: Bake the pastry for 25–30 minutes, or until it’s puffed and golden brown.
Step 11: Remove from the oven, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your festive chocolate-filled Christmas tree!

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of chocolate SunButter.
Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or finely chopped nuts inside the chocolate layer for extra flavor and texture.
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to get clean, even strips for twisting.
Serve with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Storage

Store leftover pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To enjoy later, gently reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness and warmth. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

A pastry shaped like a Christmas tree with a central golden-brown trunk and multiple twisted branches extending outwards on either side. The branches are made of layers of flaky, golden puff pastry twisted to reveal dark chocolate filling in between. The entire tree is dusted lightly with white powdered sugar, giving it a snowy look. The pastry rests on white parchment paper on a wooden cutting board, with crumbs and small broken pieces scattered around. Around the edges, small gold Christmas ornaments and sprigs of green pine with light snow effect add festive decoration. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any nut or seed butter instead of chocolate SunButter?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite nut or seed butter like almond, peanut, or regular SunButter. Just keep in mind the flavor will change accordingly.

Can I prepare the pastry tree ahead of time?

You can assemble the tree and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Bake straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.