# Ingredient List:
→ Puff Pastry
01 - 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (each approximately 8.8 oz)
→ Filling
02 - 4.2 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons basil pesto
04 - 1 garlic clove, minced
05 - 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
07 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Topping
08 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
09 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
10 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, basil pesto, minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
03 - Unfold one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a 0.4-inch border clear.
04 - Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the pastry surface, avoiding the 0.4-inch edge.
05 - Place the second puff pastry sheet on top and gently press to seal edges.
06 - Using a sharp knife, cut a large Christmas tree shape through both pastry layers; remove and reserve excess dough for decorations.
07 - From the bottom up, cut 0.8-inch horizontal strips on both sides of the tree, leaving the center intact as a trunk.
08 - Twist each strip 2 to 3 times away from the center to create branch shapes.
09 - Cut stars or ornaments from reserved dough and place them atop the tree.
10 - Brush the entire tree with beaten egg, then sprinkle sesame and optional poppy seeds evenly.
11 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
12 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
