Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Presentation: The Christmas tree shape adds a charming touch to your holiday table.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only puff pastry, Nutella, and an egg.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe to make with children, allowing them to participate in the holiday baking.
Ingredients
- 1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 tablespoons chocolate-hazelnut spread (such as Nutella), or more to taste, at room temperature
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a large rectangle and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Shape the Tree: Lightly score the puff pastry into the shape of a Christmas tree (a triangle with a wide base).
- Add Nutella: Spread a thin layer of Nutella over the triangle using the back of a spoon.
- Layer Second Pastry: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry into a large rectangle and place it over the first one. Carefully trace the shape of the chocolate-covered triangle underneath and cut out the Christmas tree shape and trunk. Remove excess pastry.
- Create Branches: Lightly score two lines down the middle to form a tree trunk that narrows at the top. Using the trunk as a guide, cut branches into the sides of the triangle. Twist each branch away from you, aiming for two twists on the lower branches.
- Add Star: Cut a small star from the excess pastry and place it on top of the tree.
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire tree and star with the beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until puffy and golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Preparation Time: 35 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Additional Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Different Spreads: Substitute Nutella with almond butter, peanut butter, or fruit preserves for a different flavor profile.
- Decorative Touches: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the baked tree for a snowy effect, or add colorful sprinkles before baking to make it more festive.
- Savory Option: For a savory twist, fill the puff pastry with pesto and cheese instead of Nutella.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Ensure that the Nutella is at room temperature and spread in a thin, even layer to prevent excess moisture.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can assemble the tree, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of Nutella?
You can use any chocolate-hazelnut spread, almond butter, peanut butter, or fruit preserves.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free puff pastry sheets and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How can I make the tree look more festive?
Decorate with powdered sugar, edible glitter, or colorful sprinkles.
Is it possible to make a savory version?
Absolutely, fill the puff pastry with pesto, cheese, or spinach for a savory alternative.
Can I freeze the Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree?
It’s not recommended to freeze after baking, as the pastry may lose its crispness.
What should I do with the leftover pastry scraps?
Use them to create small shapes like stars or twists, bake them separately, and serve as additional treats.
How do I prevent the pastry from sticking to the baking sheet?
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Can I add nuts or fruits to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped nuts or dried fruits can be added on top of the Nutella before layering the second pastry sheet.
Conclusion
The Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a delightful and festive addition to your holiday celebrations. Its impressive appearance, combined with the rich flavor of Nutella and the flaky texture of puff pastry, makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family gathering, this dessert is sure to bring joy and satisfy
The Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Create a show-stopping holiday dessert with the Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree! This festive treat combines the rich creaminess of Nutella with the flaky layers of puff pastry, shaped like a Christmas tree for the ultimate holiday presentation. Perfect for gatherings, it’s easy to make and will delight guests of all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 (17.5 oz) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 tbsp chocolate-hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella), room temperature
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out one puff pastry sheet into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Place it on the baking sheet.
- Shape the Tree: Score the puff pastry into a triangular Christmas tree shape.
- Spread Nutella: Add a thin layer of Nutella over the triangle.
- Add Second Layer: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it over the first. Trace the triangle shape and cut out the tree.
- Create Branches: Score two lines to form a trunk. Cut and twist branches outward.
- Add a Star: Use excess pastry to cut a star and place it on top.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tree and star with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For a snowy touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Use the excess pastry to make mini shapes like stars or twists for added treats.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
