Description
This Chocolate Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a festive and delicious holiday treat made by layering chocolate SunButter between sheets of puff pastry, then cutting and twisting the dough into a beautiful Christmas tree shape. Baked until golden and flaky, it’s perfect for sharing warm and fresh during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
Filling
- 1/2 heaping cup Chocolate SunButter
Finishing
- 1 large egg, for egg wash
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the first pastry layer: Roll out one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases, then transfer it onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread the chocolate filling: Evenly spread the 1/2 heaping cup of Chocolate SunButter over the puff pastry sheet, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges to allow the top layer to seal properly.
- Top with second pastry sheet: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry similarly and gently place it over the chocolate-covered first sheet, aligning edges carefully.
- Cut out the tree trunk: Using a ruler for guidance, cut out a short and wide rectangle at the bottom center of the pastry to form the trunk of the Christmas tree.
- Create tree shape: Place the ruler from the top center of the rectangle down to the bottom left corner and cut along that line. Repeat this on the right side so your cuts reveal a triangle shape resembling a tree with a short, stubby trunk. Reserve the trimmings for decorations.
- Cut strips for branches: Using the ruler again, cut 1-inch wide strips along both sides of the tree shape, making sure not to cut all the way through. Leave an uncut center spine to hold the tree together.
- Twist the branches: Starting from the bottom, grab each strip’s end and twist it 2 times away from you, then press the ends down to secure. For the top 2-3 shorter rows, twist only once since the strips are shorter.
- Apply egg wash and add star: Beat the egg in a small dish, then brush the entire surface of the pastry tree to give it a glossy, golden finish during baking. Using the leftover trimmings, cut out a star and place it atop the tree, brushing it with egg wash as well.
- Bake the tree: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Finish and serve: Once baked, dust the Christmas tree lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect and serve warm. Enjoy your festive, chocolaty pastry tree!
Notes
- Make sure puff pastry sheets are fully thawed for easier handling and better puffing.
- Use a ruler or a straight edge to get clean, precise cuts for the best tree shape.
- Chocolate SunButter can be substituted with Nutella or chocolate hazelnut spread if unavailable.
- Twisting the strips gently is key to prevent tearing the puff pastry.
- Serve immediately after baking for best texture and taste; leftovers can be reheated briefly in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Christmas tree pastry, chocolate puff pastry, holiday dessert, festive dessert, flaky pastry, chocolate SunButter, easy holiday treat
